The Province Orientation program, designed for school staff and board members new to leadership positions, was held at the Mary MacKillop Spirituality Centre, Baulkham Hills in Sydney on 20th to 22nd March.
The program is designed to assist these leaders in a deeper understanding of Sacred Heart spirituality and educational philosophy. Participants learn about Madeleine Sophie Barat’s story and the foundations of the Society that she built in the years following the French Revolution. They are also introduced to the mission of the Society and how it has developed over the last 150 years. The spirituality, as articulated by Sophie, and the governance that guides and protects her vision, are also areas explored over the weekend. Lastly, the educational philosophy that gives meaning to the work of teachers in Sacred Heart schools is discussed, particularly in relation to the recent Society document, Sophie’s Gift.
Christine Hannan
Mission Coordinator
Australia and New Zealand