Principal’s Blog
Parish and Feeder School Connections: Preparing Hearts for First Holy Communion
As we move toward our second sacrament of the year, First Holy Communion, we are reminded that faith formation is never a solitary endeavour. It is lived, nurtured, and strengthened within relationships: between school and parish, between staff and clergy, and across our wider Catholic community.
Catholic Education Western Australia’s 2030 goal, Formation for Mission, calls us “to provide effective faith formation” by empowering all staff to further the vision and mission of Catholic education. At Holy Cross College, we recognise that authentic formation is the key to this empowerment. When staff are genuinely formed in faith, through professional learning, shared experiences, and meaningful relationships, they are better equipped to bring the Gospel to life in our classrooms and beyond.
We are particularly blessed in the Swan Valley and surrounds to be guided by Fr Bonaventure. His presence within our community is both pastoral and deeply personal. Fr Bonaventure’s ability to connect with staff, to listen, and to walk alongside us is a powerful witness to Christ. He does more than lead liturgy, he inspires us to live as Christ would want us to. His authentic and joyful embodiment of faith enables staff to deepen their understanding of the Catholic Church and their role within it.
In 2026, this connection has extended in a unique and enriching way, with Fr Bonaventure joining the HCC Cycling Group on Friday mornings (weather permitting!). These simple yet meaningful interactions have been invaluable. They allow staff to encounter Fr Bonaventure not only as a priest, but as a fellow traveller, building trust, camaraderie, and shared purpose. It is in these moments that formation becomes lived experience, not just theory. Our College vision is to be inspired by the Risen Christ on our Journey of Transformation and Fr Bonaventure is key to inspiring that journey.
These connections strongly reflect our commitment to the Quality Catholic Education (QCE) framework, particularly in how we live out Catholic Identity as the expression of our Vision and Mission. Through our relationships and shared formation:
- We uphold the Church’s objectives for Catholic schools.
- We integrate faith, life, and culture in authentic ways.
- We ensure that Catholic principles permeate our daily practice.
- We recognise and celebrate the vital role of the clergy in witnessing to our mission.
- We visibly and authentically express our Catholic identity in all that we do.
Our commitment to connection extends beyond our College. Each year, we gather with our feeder primary schools, St Helena’s Catholic Primary School and Emmaus Catholic Primary School, and our parish for a shared dinner, rotating hosting responsibilities. This year, St Helena’s hosted the mid-May gathering with great warmth and hospitality.
The evening began with a beautiful liturgy centred on the image of the campfire, a powerful symbol of community, belonging, and shared purpose. The message was clear: there is a place for everyone around the campfire. This analogy captured perfectly the spirit of our partnership, reminding us that together we create a space where faith can be shared, nurtured, and celebrated. We thank St Helena’s Catholic Primary School for their generosity in hosting such a meaningful occasion.
As we continue preparing our students for First Holy Communion, these connections matter deeply. They ensure that our young people see faith not just as a subject, but as a lived reality, modelled by the adults who guide them.
In alignment with the QCE framework and CEWA’s 2030 vision, we are proud of the strong and growing relationships across our parish and feeder schools. Together, we are building a vibrant Catholic community in the Swan Valley and surrounds, one that is united in mission, rich in faith, and committed to forming the next generation in the light of Christ.
Albert Borrello
Principal