At Marian College, 2025 was a year where faith came alive through action. From service projects and fundraising events, to moments of prayer and reflection, students across the school embodied the spirit of hope, bringing light not only to their community but far beyond its gates.

Moments of Stillness

Amidst the busyness of school life, Wednesday lunchtimes offered students the opportunity to take a moment to realign their week in faith, by spending fifteen quiet minutes in prayer and reflection. “It was a good break in the middle of a busy week, no matter where you were in your faith journey,” said Evie Hanson. Each week, prayers were offered for world events, charities, and members of the Marian community. “Rosary group was a reminder that just 15 minutes of prayer a week could make a difference,” Evie reflected.

Hope Beyond the Classroom

The school’s biggest event, the 24-Hour Move It Challenge, was a collaboration with St Bede’s College. Students walked, danced, and moved for an entire day to raise funds for Caritas, generating $3,200, which was matched by the New Zealand Aid Programme, to equate to $12,600
to support communities through the He Oranga Taurikura programme.
As the year drew to a close, Marian joined forces with Villa Maria College for a Fashion Show Fundraiser, proving that creativity and compassion go hand in hand. 

Faith through Art

Leading up to Catholic Schools Day, students created cards to send to
other Catholic schools, acknowledging their special position in having faith-
filled education. “It was a unique way
to appreciate and recognise the gift of Catholic education and how blessed we are to be part of a community, where being part of Christ is fostered,” Biencei Lerum said. Students also made Rosary bracelets, which will be donated to St Vincent De Paul op shops.

AJAAS Pilgrimage

In September, Marian College hosted members of our Josephite family from Australia and the North Island, as they began a pilgrimage to commemorate
the Year of Jubilee as ‘pilgrims of hope’, following in the footsteps of St Mary
of the Cross MacKillop. The group of about 40 teachers and students from Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools, began their pilgrimage at Marian College, before travelling to St Joseph’s church in Temuka, Roncalli College in Timaru, and finally to Queenstown.
The journey included prayer services, school visits, historical presentations, and scenic exploration, fostering spiritual reflection, intercultural understanding, and personal growth. Through storytelling, community engagement and guided reflection, the students and staff deepened their connection to the Josephite tradition and the values of compassion, courage, and service.

Published in Inform Issue 147 - Advent 2025

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