The states newest Catholic school, Immaculate Heart College, that’s been built gets blessed.
It began just the way its name would suggest.
With standing room only and with one united voice, guests and students of WA’s newest Catholic school, Immaculate Heart College, gathered in its Chapel to sing the hymn, Immaculate Mary, to its patron.
Anticipation pervaded the Saturday, March 10 event before its official commencement at 3pm, as college directors, board members, staff, students and parents gathered to welcome Archbishop Barry Hickey for the school’s official blessing.
Smartly attired in their summer school uniform, students waited patiently in line formation to welcome Archbishop Hickey at the entry gate to the school’s paved courtyard.
At the conclusion of the service, the Archbishop blessed all those present in the Chapel, and proceeded to bless the Teaching Block, the Administration Block, and the college grounds.
At the conclusion of the blessing ceremony, Father Paul Fox (Director and Chair of the College Board) addressed the audience and thanked His Grace for taking special time out of his very busy schedule to come to Immaculate Heart College to bless the school and its community.
Principal Dr Evangelinou-Yiannakis gave her address, thanking His Grace and the community in turn.
She also give a synopsis of some of the events that led to the foundation of the college.
Dr Evangelinou-Yiannakis ended with a tribute to the students, saying they were delightful young people receiving an holistic education thanks to the efforts of everyone involved in Immaculate Heart College.
Archbishop Hickey emphasised the importance of having faith; faith as demonstrated by the founders of the college who had managed to build a school “in the middle of nowhere”.
Before cutting a “blessing cake” prepared by Mrs Kenny, the grandmother of two students at the college, Archbishop Hickey invited all the children to join him in conducting the official duty.
From his expression, it was evident the Archbishop took great joy in having the students of Immaculate Heart College around him.
The feelings of joy were reciprocated by the children.Everyone proceeded to enjoy afternoon tea with collegial and friendly chatter.
The occasion was a simple but moving affair, and one that will remain memorable for all who were present.