Earlier this term, I had the privilege, along with a number of key staff at John Paul College, of attending the inaugural Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) Religious Education Symposium, Inspired by Faith, held at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. Bringing together more than 900 Catholic educators, school leaders, clergy and religious from across the Archdiocese, the symposium provided an extraordinary opportunity to reflect on the vital role of Religious Education in shaping the hearts, minds and spirits of young people. The event was both intellectually enriching and deeply faith-filled, reminding all participants of the central place that Catholic education holds in forming students who can flourish and enrich the world.
The symposium was a significant initiative within the MACS 2030 vision, which seeks to grow and support a system of schools where students and staff thrive. Across two days, keynote speakers, workshops, prayer experiences and professional dialogue explored how Catholic schools can continue to deepen their mission and identity while striving for excellence in Religious Education. With six keynotes and 50 workshops exploring ideas and practices in educational leadership, curriculum, pedagogy, prayer and faith formation, there were many opportunities to learn and share with other schools. Throughout the conference, there was a consistent message: Religious Education is not simply another subject in the curriculum. It is a distinctive discipline that invites students into deeper encounters with truth, meaning, faith and the person of Jesus Christ.
One of the most powerful keynote presentations was delivered by Archbishop Peter A. Comensoli, who reflected upon the scriptural passage, “God saw what he had made and indeed it was very good” (Genesis 1:31). Archbishop Comensoli challenged educators to embrace the Catholic vision of the human person, recognising the inherent dignity, worth and giftedness of every individual. His message was a timely reminder that our work as educators begins with the belief that every young person is created in the image and likeness of God and deserves to be known, valued and loved. This theme resonates deeply with life at John Paul College. At JPC, we are committed to ensuring that every student experiences a genuine sense of belonging and is supported to become the person God created them to be. Whether through our Horizons programs, learning support initiatives, pastoral structures or faith formation opportunities, we seek to recognise the unique dignity of each student and help them discover their gifts in service of others. Archbishop Comensoli’s words reinforced that our Catholic identity is not expressed only through what we teach, but through the way we accompany our young people every day.
Another keynote speaker, Professor Kath Engebretson, shared her extensive experience as a religious educator and lead curriculum writer for the forthcoming Religious Education curriculum. Her presentation highlighted the importance of Religious Education as an academically rigorous and intellectually engaging discipline that helps students grapple with life’s deepest questions. She emphasised that Religious Education should inspire curiosity, critical thinking and a genuine search for meaning while remaining grounded in Scripture, tradition and contemporary experience. As John Paul College continues its journey of learning excellence, this challenge speaks directly to our ongoing commitment to developing engaging and meaningful Religious Education programs. Our aim is not simply for students to learn about faith, but to encounter faith, to wrestle with important questions and to develop the capacity to reflect thoughtfully on their own beliefs, values and actions in a complex and rapidly changing world.
A particularly inspiring presentation came from Franciscan scholar Brother William Short OFM, who explored the spirituality of St Francis of Assisi and the enduring relevance of Franciscan values in contemporary society. His reflections centred on humility, gratitude, relationship and care for creation. Brother William reminded participants that faith calls us to recognise the interconnectedness of all life and to respond to the world with wonder, compassion and responsibility. This message aligns strongly with many of the opportunities we provide at JPC for students to engage with social justice, environmental stewardship and service learning. Whether through Mission Action initiatives, advocacy for those in need or our commitment to caring for our common home, we seek to nurture young people who understand that faith is expressed through action and who are prepared to make a positive difference in the world around them.
Another engaging keynote came from Anne Kertz Kernion, who brought a unique perspective by integrating neuroscience, spirituality and wellbeing. Anne explored how faith, hope, gratitude and meaningful relationships contribute to human flourishing. Her presentation highlighted the growing body of research demonstrating the positive impact of purpose, connection and spiritual practices on wellbeing. For Catholic educators, this was a powerful affirmation of what we know through our faith tradition: human flourishing is achieved not simply through individual success, but through meaningful relationships with God, others and an understanding of ourselves. At JPC, we continue to prioritise student growth across all dimensions because we recognise that young people thrive when they experience connection, purpose and hope.
Throughout the symposium, there was a spirit of collaboration and shared mission. Educators from schools across Melbourne discussed both the opportunities and challenges facing Catholic education today. The conversations were thoughtful, hopeful and practical, demonstrating a collective commitment to ensuring that Religious Education remains vibrant, relevant and transformative for future generations. Participants were encouraged to engage with contemporary issues, respond to the signs of the times and continue developing practices that bring the Gospel alive in today’s world.
As I returned from the two days of this important symposium, I did so renewed and with a greater sense of hope. The themes of human dignity, faith formation, excellence in Religious Education, wellbeing and service reinforce the importance of the work we undertake each day at John Paul College. We are also challenged to remain faithful to our mission while continuing to innovate and grow, always remembering that God is with us and guiding us in this work of love.
Mr John VisentinPrincipal