Principal's Comment

Kia ora Kevinians and Supporters of the College

As the College stood in silence at 1.32pm today as a mark of respect for those lost in the Christchurch mosque shootings, we collectively found it difficult to come to grips the events that have occurred. It has been a difficult week. We have all, however, drawn strength from the outpouring of love and displays of solidarity from all corners of our nation. The sense that good will triumph over darkness has been overwhelming. As a Catholic community, we take our inspiration from the Gospel message of hope which is based on unconditional love for one another, regardless of race or creed. We pray for healing and for unity within our community. The paper prayer chain and the giant card created by the students, have been linked with the Waitaki Girls' chain and will be added to the memorial wall in Christchurch this evening. Thank you to the Christchurch based retreat team who have left their own families and friends at this difficult time, to support us this week. We will post some photographs of the retreats next week.

This morning the College farewelled a long-serving and respected support staff member, Mrs Rose Watt. In a career spanning 22 years at the College, Rose has been a teacher aid with learning support and, more recently, our Laboratory Technician and Technology and Arts Technician.

The students gave Rose a resounding haka as a mark of respect and appreciation. We wish Rose and her husband Peter every blessing as they look forward to having more time to connect with family.

Thank you to our senior student leaders who supported the students of Kavanagh College yesterday, as they mourned the loss of their much-loved Principal, Mr Tracy O'Brien. A memorial mass was held at Kavanagh College to acknowledge and celebrate his life.

             

Finally, our best wishes go with our Maadi team who are travelling to Lake Karapiro, in preparation for next week's competition. Safe travels.

Manaaki te atua ia koutou

Ngā mihi nui

Paul Olsen, Tumuaki

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