Next Friday, all students and staff will gather for our Final End-of-Year Mass. As we begin our Advent journey, this Mass will focus on the gifts of these special weeks leading to Christmas. Here are the words of our Advent Candle liturgy, celebrated during this Mass.
As we celebrate the end of our school year, we turn again to the season of Advent. We light this candle in four moments, remembering the gifts God offers us and the ways we are invited to grow. Each year level carries a special part of this journey.
First Sunday of Advent – Hope (Year 7)
We light the first candle for hope.
This year, we learned what it means to begin again: new subjects, new teachers, new friendships, and the courage to step into a new community. Sometimes we felt unsure or overwhelmed, but hope helped us keep going.
As this flame rises, we ask God to help us trust that every beginning holds promise and that we never walk alone.
Second Sunday of Advent – Peace (Year 8)
We light the second candle for peace.
In Year 8, we learned how important it is to find balance, even when school, friendships or expectations felt busy or uncertain. Peace isn’t something that just happens. It grows when we slow down, listen well, and choose to be gentle with ourselves and others. As this flame burns, we pray for calm hearts, steady minds and peaceful relationships.
Third Sunday of Advent – Joy (Year 9)
We light the third candle for joy.
This year challenged us to discover who we are becoming. Joy showed up in unexpected ways: in our friendships, in trying something new, in moments of laughter, and in finding confidence we didn’t know we had.
As this flame brightens, may we notice the joy that comes from gratitude, connection and being true to ourselves.
Fourth Sunday of Advent – Love (Years 10 and 11)
We light the fourth candle for love.
As older students, we have learned that love is not just a feeling. It is choosing to show respect, to include others, to step up, and to use our influence for good. This year, we have been called to lead, to support younger students, and to act with compassion.
As this flame glows, may God strengthen us to build a community where every person feels valued, welcomed and uplifted.
Final Prayer
Loving God, as these four flames shine together, fill our whole College with hope, peace, joy and love. Guide us into the holidays with grateful hearts and renewed purpose.
May the light of Christ continue to shape our choices, our friendships and our future.
Amen.