From the Chaplain
May 5, 2026 – Edition 5
Easter Celebrations
Although it now seems a long time ago, I wanted to reflect on the three very different Easter services we had at the end of the term to mark this significant time in the Christian calendar.
Many people contributed in different ways to sharing in this time of remembering the death and resurrection of Jesus. I would particularly like to mention Simon Hall who oversees all the AV in the PAC and has patiently and expertly supported us as we have prepared for both Harmony Week and Easter.
Our Community Communion Service was attended by families and staff who participated in various interactive activities before we shared in Communion and afternoon tea together. A particular thanks to our Foundation parent, Kim who generously shared her singing talent by presenting ‘Amazing Grace’ to us.
We appreciated each of the staff, students and family members who attended and contributed to this special afternoon.
It has been wonderful to see the number of Senior School students volunteering to be involved in Chapels, and the Easter Service was no different.
During the service, we explored the way in which a sacred text from such a different time and place can still shape our understanding of life in this time and place. The message of Easter continues to influence the lives of millions to this day.
We were very proud of the Year 6 students who hosted our Junior School Easter Chapel, led by Mrs Mathews. A highlight was the whole congregational song at the conclusion, including the actions choreographed by some of the Year 6 students.
We loved the way that the little bunny family explained how Easter is a story of God’s love for each and every one of us. Thank you to all Year 6 students who sang, danced, created artwork, acted and led us in prayer.
Compassion in Action
Once again, we had wonderful students attend Backpacks 4 Vic Kids in their holidays along with teachers (thank you Mrs Dwyer, Mrs Whitehead and Mrs Upward). Below is a reflection that one of our students shared in assembly.
Volunteering at Backpacks 4 Vic Kids has shown me how much I take for granted, having a safe home, food, school, and people who care about me. Not every child has that.
I may never understand why opportunities are so uneven. But I do know that I can help those who have a lesser advantage than myself, allowing them to experience what it feels like to be cared for.
Ekam, Year 10
I continue to commend this wonderful organisation to our broader community. We were so proud that some of our Senior School students (Skyla and Madison) had the initiative to create a face painting stall at the recent Athletics Day.
We used the money to purchase a range of items selected to support vulnerable young people. One of our School Captains, Sienna and our Social Justice Captains, Sehaj were able to present these purchases on the day we volunteered at Backpacks 4 Vic Kids.
Lest We Forget
Along with our Principal, Mrs Williams, our Head of Senior School, Mme Morgan, and our wonderful music staff, Mr Collidge, Mr Evans and Mr Wallace, I was privileged to attend the Cranbourne ANZAC Service alongside a number of students.
It was a joy to listen to the music prepared by our band and drummers throughout the morning. Sienna and Ryan were the first Casey Grammar students to be invited to do a reading since I have been attending the service.
They shared a touching poem exploring the intergenerational nature of remembrance. I’m sure that many of us were moved by the words they read and the sentiment they represented.
Our Senior and Junior School Captains and Social Justice Captains proudly represented our community by laying flowers and wreaths. It was beautiful to see such a wonderful cross-section of our community gathering together to honour the sacrifice of others for the freedom of those they will never meet.
We will not forget.
I trust that you have had a positive start to the term. Already there are so many exciting events happening!
Every blessing in the week ahead
Monique Riviere-Pendle
Chaplain
