Pentecost, often referred to as the ‘birthday of the Church,’ holds profound symbolism. The Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles in the form of tongues of fire, empowering them to spread the message of love, compassion and understanding to people of all nations and languages. This event underscores the inclusive nature of Christianity, where the barriers of language, culture and background are transcended in the pursuit of shared values and faith.

In his homily on Sunday, Fr Loi commented on his recent meeting with Catholic priests from the Archdiocese. He told the congregation about the many languages being spoken and noted the multicultural, diverse and inclusive nature of Australian clergy in the twenty-first century. This was the theme of the international conference ‘A Current of Grace’ this week, an event that myself, Belle Barling and Jennifer Smith (St Bernard’s REC) had the privilege to attend. We were fortunate enough to listen to keynote addresses from academics from around the world, including Barbara Coupar (Director of the Scottish Catholic Education Service) and Fr Friedrich Bechina (Undersecretary for the Vatican Congregation for Catholic Education).

Barbara delivered a powerful speech, in which she emphasised the power of inclusivity and of meeting students where they are at in their faith formation journey. She elaborated by stating, that building relationships and providing role models to students is the first step towards encounter, discipleship and mission. Fr Friedrich further elaborated on this sentiment by quoting the Gospel of Mark, ‘Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature.’ He discussed the importance of Catholic schools bearing witness in visible and tangible ways. At the Open Night last week, I noted our social justice initiatives, Faith Formation days and Youth Ministry Group. I can confidently say that we are striving to do our very best to ‘bear witness’ in accessible and engaging ways for our students at the College.

This was beautifully reflected in our annual Carroll Day Service on Friday 10 May. Students in our Youth Ministry Group, along with our Social Justice Captains, helped to facilitate a mass that paid tribute to Archbishop Francis Carroll. Karen Lyttle, who has been with the College since its first year, paid tribute to ‘Father Frank’ whilst reflecting on his humility and his emphasis on the importance of being welcoming and inclusive.

A copy of her speech is included here:

It is indeed an honour to speak about Archbishop Francis Carroll today.

My first encounter with Father Francis dates back to 1995. I vividly recall the moment, as a young teacher filled with anticipation and a touch of nervousness. He was introduced to me simply as "Father Frank". Reflecting upon it now, it's truly inspiring to consider that our esteemed College, now entering its 30th year, bears the name of such a modest individual.

Although Carroll Day was initially designated for September 5th, a date Father Francis himself chose, this particular week holds special significance in our history. Almost exactly 30 years ago, on May 7th, 1994, Father Francis Carroll stood upon these very grounds, then adorned with banksia and gum trees, and bestowed his blessings upon the site. Nearly 500 people gathered to witness the formal inauguration of the College, marked by the ceremonial blessing and the planting of a commemorative flowering gum tree. The very shovel displayed in our prayer space today bears witness to Father Frank's labour on that memorable occasion, engraved to immortalise the event.

Father Francis was initially taken aback by the notion of a school bearing his name. He famously remarked, "I confess to being rather embarrassed by the suggested name, Carroll College. Schools are usually named after a saint, not after a sinner." This sentiment epitomises Father Francis Carroll's humble disposition. There was never any grandeur or ostentation with Father Frank; he was rather reserved, preferring to spend his time engaging in conversations with students.

I consider myself fortunate to have dedicated the majority of my teaching career to Carroll College. I had the privilege of being present for the inaugural Carroll Day, alongside Mrs Smart and Mrs Barling, who, as some of the first students to enrol in 1995, share fond memories of those early years. Back then, our school was small, with fewer than 90 students and seven full-time staff. We lacked a proper hall and had barely an oval to speak of. Yet, Father Francis graced us with his presence during those formative years, joining in our Carroll Day festivities held in the senior courtyard. Those who remain from those early years fondly recall Father Francis participating in liturgies, games, and even our variety concerts, now known as the Battle of the Bands. He would sit among the students, tapping his foot to the music.

Father Francis would occasionally slip away, only to be found kicking around an AFL footy with the students on the oval, often sporting his beloved football scarf. His passion for AFL remained undiminished until his passing earlier this year.

Above all, Father Francis desired Carroll College to be a place where every student felt welcome and had the opportunity to pursue lifelong learning, excelling in their academic, athletic, and extracurricular pursuits. He envisioned our students leaving our doors ready to make meaningful contributions to society, understanding that not all who walked through our gates shared the Catholic faith, but hoping that they would benefit from the values instilled through a Catholic education.

Vale Father Francis

Mrs Anna Smart
Religious Education Coordinator