This year in LIFE week, the Year 12’s had a varied schedule. They began the week with work placements in areas of their own choosing, and a visit to Murdoch University, where they participated in a final Elevate seminar, had a tour of the university and met some students and lecturers.
They then began a 4 day retreat experience culminating in the walk into New Norcia. The retreat began with pilgrimage where we all walked the penultimate section of the Camino Salvado. There were some particularly stunning landscapes to admire and I think it’s safe to say that whilst there were some sore feet at the end of the day, there was also a real sense of accomplishment.
The following day, students arrived at the College with their bags packed ready for the overnight experience in New Norcia. The theme for Year 12 is taking the long view and this is what our Retreat was all about. We began the day walking once more and concluded it by walking into New Norcia whilst the monks rang the bells for us. It was a moving end to the day and very powerful. This was followed up with a foot washing liturgy in which 3 students and one staff member had their feet washed by Abbot John. The next two days were spent immersing the Year 12’s in notions of the future, looking at the kind of adults they want to be. Each morning, we participated in prayer with the monks and then prepared a fully cooked breakfast. The Year 12’s showed strength of character, great humour and a lovely sense of reflection was also evident. Some friendships were strengthened and some important decisions were made. It really was a fantastic week.
It was a pleasure to spend the week with this group of Year 12’s. They have come a long way since Year 7, participating in their 6th LIFE week and loving it. Well done Year 12.
Ms O'Donohue
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