Dear Iona Community,

As we journey through this important moment in the life of the Church, I invite you to pause and join with the Church in prayer for the Conclave that has just begun.

The election of a new Pope is not just a global Church event, but a deeply spiritual time that calls for our collective prayers for wisdom, unity and guidance. As we hold the Cardinals gathered in Rome for the Conclave close to our hearts, we are reminded of the importance of community and connection in our faith journey.

This sense of connection was powerfully evident at our recent Father & Son and Mother & Son Engagement Evenings. These gatherings highlighted the beauty of shared moments between parents and their sons, showing us all how meaningful even simple acts of presence can be. Thank you to all who attended—your participation not only enriched the lives of your sons but also strengthened our broader community.

This spirit of connection and unity also extended beyond our immediate community through the De Mazenod Family Education Network (DMFEN). Representatives from the three Oblate schools came together recently for the annual Oblate Charism Retreat at St Eugene’s College in Burpengary, fostering shared faith and collaboration among our Oblate family.

From Iona, we were proud to be represented by Mr Adam McPhee, Mr Benjamin Coote, Mrs Lucinda MacDonald, and Mrs Kate Carmichael.

I want to offer a heartfelt thanks to each of them for carrying the Iona spirit with their openness and willingness to step into this shared space of faith, culture and reflection.

And finally, I like to thank our Heads of House and Homeroom Mentors for the tireless way you walk alongside our young people on their journey of faith and formation. Your dedication does not go unnoticed.

At the same time, I want to encourage all students and families to come along to your House Family Mass. These Masses are more than a school event, they’re moments where we come together, as one family, to celebrate, to reflect, and to remember who we are and what we stand for.

God bless,

Fr Joe Antony OMI
Rector