By Jenni Kennedy
On Friday, June 23, the final day of Term Two was filled with joy in Yarrawonga as the Sacred Heart College and Sacred Heart Primary School came together to celebrate Sacred Heart Day. It was a day of commemoration and gratitude, as the entire community gathered to honour their shared heritage and values.
The festivities began with an inspiring Mass with Bishop Shane Mackinlay, held in the College grounds. Students, teachers, staff, parents, and esteemed guests joined in prayer and song. The Mass was a beautiful reflection of unity and faith, creating a sense of togetherness that permeated the entire event.
Music played a significant role in enhancing the Mass, as the choir and musicians from Sacred Heart Primary School sang and provided actions to music for everyone to join in, all under the watchful eye of teacher Christine Cussen, who was farewelled following the Mass, as she retired from teaching after 50 years in Catholic Education, 27 years of which were at Sacred Heart Primary, Yarrawonga.
The day also served as the official opening of the Mercy Building, a fabulous addition to the College’s campus. This new facility serves as the official entrance to the school and houses administration, staff facilities, meeting rooms and school library. The building was blessed by Bishop Shane Mackinlay, whose presence further enriched the significance of the occasion, despite the rain!
Following the Mass and official opening, students were treated to a BBQ lunch where the local Lions Club cooked over a thousand sausages for the students! Special guests were invited to stay for lunch in the newly opened Mercy Building and were able to enjoy a fabulous historical display in the staff area, which commemorated 60 years on the school site and featured photos, timelines and treasured memorabilia.
Sacred Heart Day serves as a reminder of the shared values and principles that bind Sacred Heart College and Sacred Heart Primary School together. It emphasises the importance of faith, love, and compassion in their daily lives and educational pursuits. Sacred Heart Day was not just a celebration; it was a testament to the enduring spirit and unwavering dedication of the Sacred Heart community.
