Dean of Identity | Mr Charles Brauer

The expected and unexpected

Sometimes it is the looking back and reflecting on an experience that can affect us more than the experience itself. Perhaps it is getting taken away with a moment or being ‘on the run’ that prevents us from truly appreciating a given moment, although I tried to resist this while away with our students on the Europe Music tour and ‘be in’ the moment. Upon returning to school and reflecting on the tour happenings, I continue to be amazed at what we experienced, the people we met and the memories we forged.

The United Nations Human Rights Council and Edmund Rice International 

A wonderful gift of the Christian Brothers is their humility, both as people and as an organisation. Br Brian Bond of Edmund Rice International (ERI), along with law graduate interns Grace and Andrea, humbly hosted us for two days in Geneva, including a visit to the 42nd Human Rights Council session of the United Nations. ERI works alongside other NGOs to advocate for global human rights, particularly in countries where there are Christian Brother ministries – Australia, Timor-Leste, Philippines, Africa and India, to name a few. Our students were able to see behind the scenes of a humble, yet highly effective organisation, linking the work of ERI with the role and functioning of the United Nations. 

Assisi as pilgrim 

Our timing to visit Assisi was perfect! And completely coincidental. We were in Assisi, the hometown of Italy’s patron Saint, St Francis, during the weekly celebrations of his Feast Day on 4 October. We were able to share time with other travellers who were travelling to Italy as pilgrims. Although the main purpose of our trip was music, we were able to take the time as a pilgrim. That is, to pause and take time to connect with and be still in sacred places to be enriched spiritually. Our Assisi retreat proved to be far more enriching than any planning document had suggested.

At home with St Peter and St Joseph  

We couldn’t have asked for a more fitting place to lead the music of Wednesday’s Mass at the Vatican than at The Chapel of St Joseph within St Peter’s Basilica.  This experience was an extraordinary opportunity for our young men and their families who joined us, a once in a lifetime moment that I am certain we will all remember forever.

Congratulations to our young men who represented the College whilst away on the Europe Music tour. You did our College proud by the way you conducted yourselves and the way you performed. May you continue to reflect on the wonderful experiences, and may fond memories continue to form.

Tuesday Morning Mass will be led by 8 Kearney in The Chapel of the Holy Family from 7.50am. All are most welcome to attend.