Today, our college community came together to celebrate our first Mass of the academic year, providing a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect and begin the year together in prayer.

During the Mass, Fr Dominic offered staff a Blessing of Hands, a powerful and symbolic gesture as we begin a new academic year. Our hands represent the many ways in which we welcome, support, guide and serve our students, as well as the wider Carmel College community.

The theme of hands has also been brought to life in our Chaplaincy through a special handprint display. Each hand represents the unique contribution that every member of our community brings to Carmel, highlighting the importance of working together and recognising the gifts, talents and service of others.

The display and blessing are inspired by the words of St Teresa of Avila:

“Christ has no body now on earth but yours. No hands but yours.”

These words provide a fitting reminder of the role we each play in creating a caring, supportive and welcoming community. Through our actions, kindness and service to others, we can help make a difference to the lives of those around us.

Our first Mass was a wonderful way to begin the academic year, united as a community and looking ahead with a shared commitment to welcome, service, connection and care.

We look forward to all that the new academic year will bring.