Reconciliation Week: Mass for Healing and Justice 2025

As Reconciliation Week 2025 draws to a close, we take a moment to reflect on the powerful Mass for Healing and Justice held on Friday, 30th May. FCJ College was honoured to host this year’s Catholic Education Sandhurst Reconciliation Mass, a gathering rich in reflection, respect, and unity.

We were privileged to welcome back Bishop Shane Mackinlay, who led the Mass alongside Reverend Dr Brian Boyle and Father Vijay. It was a deeply moving service for all in attendance. We were also honoured to welcome Kate Fogarty, Executive Director of Catholic Education Sandhurst, along with Michael Chisholm, Aboriginal Education Lead, representatives from Catholic Education Sandhurst, and students and staff from 12 other schools across the Diocese. The Mass was live-streamed into classrooms throughout the Diocese, allowing many more to join in this significant and meaningful event.

A heartfelt thank you to Billy Cooper for his powerful Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country, which beautifully opened the day and set a respectful tone of cultural connection. He thoughtfully guided us through the ceremony, showing how to bask in the smoke and let it reach our feet as we walked onto Country—a symbolic act of cleansing, grounding, and connection to land. We were also delighted to have with us Yorta Yorta and Dja Dja Wurrung Aboriginal Artist and educator Troy Firebrace, whose presence enriched the occasion.

This year’s Reconciliation Week theme, “Bridging Now to Next,” encourages us to look ahead while learning from the past. It highlights the ongoing connection between past, present, and future, and calls on all Australians to step forward together.

FCJ College and St Joseph’s Primary School choirs came together in harmony to perform a series of beautiful hymns and songs that paid tribute to our profound connection to the land, deeply moving all who were present. Their angelic voices, enriched by FCJ College student Riley Hilton’s soulful didgeridoo playing, brought a powerful depth to the ceremony—beautifully capturing the spirit and meaning of the day.

One of the most memorable moments was when our School Captain, Sophie Hammond, delivered a heartfelt reflection that resonated deeply with everyone and earned high praise from Bishop Shane as she shared:

“I see reconciliation as acceptance. It’s about facing the truth of our history and acknowledging the ongoing impacts. Acceptance means we recognise what happened was wrong, and we don’t try to cover it up. We give space for the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable. Healing is a process, not a moment, and the effects of the past continue to shape lives today.”

Sophie continued:

“It’s a journey that takes time, honesty, and a willingness to learn. We can’t undo the past, but we can make sure we don’t repeat it. Acceptance is the first step toward a future where we all stand on a foundation of respect and understanding. It's how we begin to build a community where everyone belongs and has a voice.”

She concluded with a powerful reminder:

“This week reminds us that reconciliation is a shared responsibility. Each of us has a part to play in creating a more just and inclusive Australia. By accepting the truth, listening with open hearts, and working together, we can build a future grounded in hope and mutual respect.”

No words could wrap up the week more meaningfully than Sophie’s.

As we move forward, beyond Reconciliation Week, we invite you to stay tuned for a special project in the Indigenous space, launching early next term as part of our 125-year FCJ College celebrations. We are beyond excited to share it with you soon!

‍