The Catherine McAuley Westmead Community gathered for the Opening School Mass on Friday 7th Feb.
The Catherine McAuley Westmead Opening School Mass, held on Friday 7th February 2025, was a very special and joyful occasion.
The school welcomed our students, staff, parents and many special guests including Sisters of Mercy, members of our Parents & Carers Group, staff from Catholic Schools Diocese of Parramatta and local schools, and our parliamentary representatives.
New staff were commissioned and presented with a candle by the School Captains
Year 7 students received their school bibles at the Opening Mass
Year 7 students received their school bibles at the Opening Mass.
The Mass was concelebrated by the Most Reverend Vincent Long Van Nguyen, OFM, Conv DD STL and the Very Reverend Fr Robert Reidling, Dean and Administrator of Parramatta Cathedral and Episcopal Vicar for Education; and Reverend Fr Walter Fogarty, Coordinating Pastor, Westmead Catholic Community.
The special occasion saw the 2025 student leaders commissioned, Year 7 students receive their House badges and school bibles, and new students and staff welcomed into the Circle of Mercy. The Year 12 Hospitality students, class of Mrs Bonello, did a wonderful job organising the afternoon tea at the conclusion of the mass.
Bishop Vincent blessing the student leader badges
Year 12 Hospitality students and Mrs Bonello
School Principal Mary Refalo with Sisters of Mercy
Jacqui Hamilton | School Development Officer
Catherine McAuley Westmead
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