From the Dean of Identity and Community
Opening Mass
Blessing of Westcourt
Blessed Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers and Presentation Brothers, was born to Robert and Margaret Rice, prosperous tenant farmers, at Westcourt, Callan, Kilkenny, on 1st of June 1762. Rice grew up in the thatched house at "Westcourt" which still stands at over 250 years old. Edmund’s modest yet nurturing home, where the values of faith, hard work, and community were deeply ingrained, was a centrepiece to his story, where his family instilled in him a strong sense of duty to those in need and a commitment to service. The house itself became a symbol of hospitality and care, where Edmund witnessed his parents’ generosity, particularly their care for the poor and marginalised. Westcourt fostered a sense of justice and a drive to address the inequalities he saw around him, inspiring him to create schools that would offer a liberating education to the most disadvantaged children. At St Laurence’s College we create our very own ‘home on the hill;’ our ‘Westcourt’, for each other and for the guests who respond to our outreach. During our Opening Mass, we officially blessed our newly built ‘Westcourt’ area located behind the Hogan building, also the new spiritual home to our spirit rallies.
Blessing of New Students
During the Mass, we invited all members of the community to extend a hand of blessing towards our newest members of the Lauries community. Fr Gerry and Fr Will prayed on behalf of the college: “May St Laurence’s be a place where they feel connected and able to contribute for the good of all. Give them the strength and courage they need to face the challenges that will come their way. Give them also the hope and joy of being part of the band of brothers.” We welcome all new families to our faith community.
Commissioning our College Principal
As a community, we also commissioned our College Principal, Mr Ben Lowrie, and presented him with a gift on behalf of the College. The gift of a Lauries puzzle was presented by College Captain Luca Ellero, each piece of the puzzle symbolising the unique parts that come together to form the whole of St Laurence’s College. Each puzzle piece represents the diversity, spirit, and individual contributions of our school community, highlighting how every student, staff member, and aspect of our College plays an essential role in shaping who we are. Just as a puzzle requires each piece to create a complete picture, we too are bound together in unity, each person bringing their strengths and talents to build the vibrant community we cherish. This act serves as a powerful reminder that we are stronger and more connected when we come together, each piece adding to the legacy and future of our school, 110 years strong. In the words of Br Damian Price, who formed part of the blessing, “May this stand as a reminder of the legacy of our community and those we serve. Always be mindful of the challenge of Mark’s Gospel “The first will be last, and the last will be first.” Lead St Laurence’s College with faith, humility and action, authentic to the traditions and teachings of the Church and the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice.” We congratulate our College Principal, Mr Lowrie, on his willingness to lead our community.
150 Years of the Christian Brothers in Australia - Mr James Mendoza (Head of Faith in Action)
St. Laurence’s College students Matiyas Al-Patti, William Bradley, Joseph Courage, Jesse Davis, Jacob Lindsay, Zachary Thomas – Geer and Ewan Thomson, accompanied by staff members Samantha Harris, Grace Loyden and James Mendoza attended the 150 Years of Christian Brothers Ministry in Australia celebration held at Nudgee College. Students were honoured to listen to the words from Dr Mary Murphy who reflected on the influence of the key women in the life of Edmund Rice. Her words served as a reminder that we grow to be the people that we are due to the direct influence from our immediate families and mentors.
Ronald McDonald House Visits for Xavier House - Mr Matthew Gammie (Head of House - Xavier)
This week Xavier House had the honour of attending their very first Faith in Action event at the Ronald McDonald House for 2025. This event marked an exciting milestone for the Xavier House community, as they came together to support families in need, offering a helping hand during their challenging times.
Volunteers from Xavier House spent the afternoon as part of the Kids Club initiative organised through Ronald McDonald House. The event was an inspiring example of how service and compassion can positively impact those going through tough situations.
The partnership between Xavier House and Ronald McDonald House is relatively new, but it’s already clear that this collaboration will be a cornerstone of service for the community. Thank you to Xavier House Captain Josh Pearce (12), Dan McGill (12), Ethan Lucas (9) and Ben Stabik (8) who made this first event such a success — we look forward to many more opportunities to make a difference together.
MR LACHLAN HESHUSIUS
Dean of Identity and Community (Acting)