We were privileged to welcome Father Tom Stevens from St Patrick’s Catholic Parish, Mortlake, who celebrated Mass with his trademark warmth, engaging nature and wonderful sense of humour. During his homily, Father Tom reflected on how love changes and grows throughout the different stages of life. Sharing the story of a woman from his parish who, after losing her husband, spoke of learning to love him in different ways over the course of their marriage, he reminded us that love is never static, it deepens, evolves and remains at the centre of all we do.

Father Tom also reflected on the Gospel, the Wedding at Cana, where Mary noticed the wine had run out before anyone else. Through her attentiveness and care, Jesus was able to perform the miracle of turning water into wine. It was a fitting reminder of the quiet strength of mothers and mother figures, those who notice everything, often before anyone else does.

A special moment of the Mass saw all boys offer a prayer for their mothers before presenting them with a rose. Another highlight was when a group of Year 12 students stood at the altar and delivered heartfelt messages to their mothers in their family languages, including Polish, Italian, Spanish, Aramaic, Cantonese, Greek, Croatian Filipino and Arabic. It was a moving reflection of the rich diversity and strong family spirit within our College community.

There was also a particularly touching moment when College Captain Francesco M, on behalf of the student body, thanked Dr Lavorato for the countless Mothers’ Day Masses she has missed over the years in service to the College and previous school communities. He then introduced a surprise guest, Dr Lavorato’s daughter, who entered to embrace her mother in a beautiful moment of love and gratitude. With this being Dr Lavorato’s final Mothers’ Day Mass before concluding her time with the College at the end of the year, it was especially poignant.

As always, the choir and musicians added greatly to the beauty of the celebration, and we thank them, along with Dr Taylor, for their wonderful efforts.

Following Mass, mothers and mother figures enjoyed a lovely morning tea together, sharing conversation and laughter in the Autumn sunshine.

We wish all mothers, grandmothers and mother figures in our community a very happy Mother’s Day and thank them for the love, care and guidance they give so generously each and every day.