The Genazzano FCJ College Year 12 Valedictory Mass and Awards evening took place at Genazzano on 17 October 2024. Present with the girls on this beautiful occasion were their parents, Genazzano staff and FCJ Sisters Barbara, Anne and Helen. We reproduce here the address by Genazzano Principal, Mrs Loretta Wholley, to the graduating class of 2024.
It is here on this night of celebration, on an evening where we recognise academic, social, spiritual, emotional and cultural achievement through a graduation ceremony, that I ask you to remember all the blessings you have received. These blessings, these talents and gifts, bestowed on you by God, have been nurtured by your parents and enhanced throughout your time at Genazzano FCJ College by your teachers, the staff and your friends.
And so tonight we take this opportunity to acknowledge and pray for the wonderful future that is awaiting our graduating Year 12 Class of 2024.
This year, as we began our 135 years celebration as Genazzano FCJ College, I used the analogy of the Aleppo Pines on Circular Drive: its deep roots and foundation on Catholic identity and FCJ Charism, the sturdy trunk of knowledge and guidance, the branches of diverse talents, achievements and pathways and the needle leaves that symbolise our enduring spirit and Alumnae.
As a Catholic school we are faithful companions of Jesus.
This community has been committed to awakening in you a sense of prayer and purpose and has been encouraging you to strive for truth and goodness. We have been preparing you for this moment. For the days ahead when you face the challenges that are always present in our world, but are particularly prevalent in a world that is interconnected, dynamic and demanding of your time and attention.
I urge you as you continue to learn and grow – to be inquirers, to be curious, to search for your own answers and not rely on the loudest or angriest voice. To critically analyse the information you have before you prior to making your decisions.
To draw on the wisdom of our faith and remember that you display great courage, confidence and strength when you act with humility, gentleness and wisdom; respecting the dignity of every person.
As these young ladies’ journey into new and unknown territories, they can move forward as Genazzano women prepared to experience their future and shape it. They can be secure in the knowledge that there are 135 years of women who have forged new paths for them to follow, but they should also have the courage to create their own.
This year, I have had the privilege to attend the funerals of three FCJ Sisters who have died. I did not know them well, but as I listened to their life stories I thought to myself, that I could only wish for and hope that the wonderful words spoken about these women as being faithful, courageous, inspiring and joyful may one day be words spoken about me and you at the end of our lives on this earth. Showing that we have lived full lives of service, love and companionship.
The words of Marie Madeleine d’Houët were very special to these Sisters and I hope will always be encouraging for you…
Have courage and confidence. We must never say ‘I cannot do that, I am not capable of doing this … God will not fail to give you the grace to do all that he has asked of you.
Marie Madeleine d’Houët, Foundress of the FCJ Sisters
Tonight, I also recognise your parents or those who have cared for you as parent. They are your first teachers. It is their love that has nurtured you and will continue to nurture you through life’s ups and downs. Your parents chose a school community for you that has taught you to find God in all things. It is the partnership we have had through these final years that have helped you transform – we are proud of you. Thank you, for trusting us with your daughters – it has been a privilege to journey with you.
So remember, use God’s gifts to build your character and to find your true vocation in life. In the years to come you will have the opportunity to accumulate many treasures: your own money…car…home… even more.
Enjoy these treasures, but hold them with open hands, remembering that God has only loaned them to you – and they are meant for sharing with family, friends and those in need. This is what it truly means … to be a Gen Girl.
Good luck, study hard for your exams and God bless you.
