Each weekend I go to Mass. There is nothing unusual or surprising about this. Sometimes, like many I suspect, I am more attentive than others. I try hard to say my prayers, especially during the Liturgy of the Eucharist, and remember to give thanks for all I have. I try to listen carefully to the readings and apply the wisdom to my daily life. I try to digest the priest’s homily and take heed of the lessons therein.

Last weekend, the presider said many things, but the key simple words I remembered were – and I paraphrase here – there are many groups to which we belong, and as in any group, there will be people who agree with us, people who disagree (sometimes loudly), and many who don’t care one way or the other.

As you will all be aware, we have a new Pope! I am awestruck as to the incredible responsibility the Pope holds as one of the most recognisable figures in the world. More than a billion Catholics the world over, look to him for guidance and shepherding. A grand honour and a fierce task indeed! We anticipate great writing, theological dialogue, healing and inspirational words, and as members of the faithful, an invitation to deepen our relationship with Jesus.

I daresay that Pope Leo XIV will have no shortage of advice offered to him, solicited or otherwise, in these early days of his papacy. And, he will no doubt attract both applause and scorn at some stage. Some will be hopeful of a conservative approach, while others will be eager for radical change. Most of us will fall somewhere in the middle. What is hopeful is that his Augustinian heritage, as well as his work with the poor in Peru, will be a defining characteristic of his leadership. I am heartened by his opening lines when he was presented on the balcony in Rome – offering peace to all, exhorting us to build bridges, and to be people of dialogue.

Just as I heard the priest in our local Church say as part of his homily, there are bound to be groups that criticise and disagree with Pope Leo during his papacy. None of us is immune to disagreement and judgement. Albeit on a far humbler scale, as a leader in education, at times, one must develop a thick skin. Members of the community readily provide feedback, and doubtless, some people express their disappointment because of decisions that are taken. However, if we allow the dissenting voices to rule our work, we will be paralysed into inaction, and nothing will happen. Even after due consultation and listening, feedback and survey data, there will be some who will disagree with a decision or direction taken. This is a fact of life.

My grand hope always, is that in any Catholic environment, disagreements are characterised by respect and gentle language. Mutual dignity should always be the order of the day. I therefore ask and remind all members of our community to remain courteous online, on the telephone, and in person.

Last weekend I heard the priest’s words ringing in my ears as I drove home, and being nourished by the Eucharist, was thankful to God for working through him. We will inevitably have disagreements in the many groups to which we belong. I guess it is how we respond both within ourselves, and outwardly, that is critical.

Vinnies Winter Sleepout

This year I will again participate in the Vinnies CEO Winter Sleepout. Those who know me well understand how much I despise the cold! If you would like to make a donation to our College’s efforts for this worthy cause you can do so by clicking on this link: https://www.ceosleepout.org.au/fundraisers/craigwattam