Principal's Post

Am I a good father? A torturous question. 

We, Briony and I, have four children. Three of whom are students at FCJ College Benalla - next year, all four. This place is familiar to them. I do constantly wonder how my presence at their school influences their day. 

I am the oldest of seven. My father was a singer. Still is. I grew up amongst the congestion of choirs, suburban traffic, trains, football ovals and dinner tables. I yearned for the solitary nature of fairways on golf courses. Still do. 

Am I a good father? 

I am quite enamoured with our children. I like spending time with them. Not all time but some. They are all different yet similar. I learn a lot about them if I stop. I learn a lot from them if I listen. I learn a lot about myself if I allow it. I am not always open to learning. 

Am I a good father?

At his moment of death, Jesus cries out, “ Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" or "My God, my God, why have you for saken me?" from the cross, words recorded in the Gospels of Mark and Matthew. These words are also the opening line of Psalm 22. A powerful line. Desperate. Confused. Heartbreaking. A child calling out to a parent. A parent hearing the pained cry of their child.

Relationships with fathers can be joyous, sorrowful, hurtful, fun and loving. Like anything worthwhile.

When does a joke become a dad? When the punchline becomes apparent.

What did the buffalo say to his son when he left home? Bison.

Happy Father’s Day. 

Pro Deo Semper 

Joseph Mount

Principal

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