On Friday students from St Mary’s College gathered at our cemetery to commemorate All Souls’ Day, joining a long-standing tradition that encourages reflection, remembrance, and a sense of connection with those who have entered eternal rest.
The visit was led by our incredible Aboriginal Teaching Assistants and supported by College staff including our Wellbeing Team and Father Liam. This opportunity offered students a chance to understand the significance of this solemn day and participate in meaningful acts of remembrance through prayer and reflection to our souls who have faithfully departed.
All Souls’ Day, observed each year on November 2nd, is a day on our Catholic calendar set aside for honouring All Souls. The students of St Mary’s College paid tribute by offering prayers and placing flowers on graves, respecting the memory of deceased family members, friends, and community members – a very heartfelt day. As a community, we come together to support each other in remembering our loved ones.
Staff encouraged students to think about All Souls’ Day as a time for connection and introspection. This is not only about remembering those who have passed but also about finding peace and understanding in our own lives. By honouring others, we learn to appreciate the value of life and the connections that bind us as a College community.
As the students left the cemetery, many expressed a sense of gratitude and a renewed appreciation for the lives of those who came before them. For these young people, this All Souls’ Day was an opportunity to engage with history, tradition, and the values that make up their community. St Mary’s College hopes that this experience will inspire students to carry forward the spirit of respect, remembrance, kindness and unity into their everyday lives.
On Saturday afternoon many of our College community celebrated a very special All Souls Day Mass at the cemetery with our Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish community.