New building dedicated to teenage saint
Schools
Students at St Joseph’s School Payneham were encouraged to use their talents for the greater good as they celebrated the official opening and blessing of the $7.9m Carlo Acutis complex last week.
The two-storey building is named after the British-born Italian teenager who used his love for technology and website design to spread the Gospel message before his death from leukemia in 2006 at the age of 15. He is expected to be canonised this year during theJubilee of Teenagers.
Leading the liturgy on the lawns of the school on February 20, Archbishop Patrick O’Regan said St Joseph’s Payneham was ‘ahead of the game” by naming the building after Blessed Carlo Acutis.
Archbishop O’Regan said he was “a very special and relatable saint” and reminded us that “holiness is within the reach of all, especially the young”.
“Carlo once said, ‘to always be close to Jesus that’s my life’s plan – it doesn’t get any better or simpler than that.,” Archbishop O’Regan said.
“What a powerful reminder for all of us today; like St Carlo we are called to use our talents for the greater good of God, whether in the classroom, on the playing field, or in service of others.”
Archbishop O’Regan also praised the pioneering work of the Sisters of St Joseph, who founded the school and who were the “backbone” of Catholic education.
“As we dedicate this school to St Carlo, let’s hope his example will inspire everyone who walks through its doors,” he said.
“There are many competing voices for our attention in this world but if we focus on those simple things where we are formed not just in mind but in heart, where faith has a place to flourish, where knowledge is pursued with integrity, and where the love of God and neighbour is the highest lesson taught, that will be a life well lived.
“Carlo’s life was not long but he packed a lot into it and because he fell in love with a God who had fallen in love with him, he is worthy of imitation and a great choice, a very prophetic one right in this place.
“May the spirit of St Carlo, the legacy of the Sisters of St Joseph and all those who followed them continue to guide us as we build not simply strong minds but holy hearts.”
Archbishop O’Regan blessed a first class relic of Carlo Acutis before sprinkling with holy water the eight new general learning areas and teacher preparation area.
Principal Simon Mechis thanked all those involved in the project, which includes new toilets for staff and students and a shaded green space.
“The students, their families, teachers and staff fill it every day, bringing positive energy, vibrancy and joy and warmth,” he said.
