Tenison Woods staff reflect on namesake's legacy
Schools
Tenison Woods Catholic School, Richmond, recently took part in a Staff Reflection Day focused on following in the footsteps of the school’s namesake, Father Julian Tenison Woods.
Tenison Woods Catholic School staff helping out at Orana during their Staff Reflection Day.
Father Julian Tenison Woods was a priest who worked in South Australia alongside Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Together they established the Josephite Religious order of sisters and set about making Catholic Education in South Australia an option for all children. Their compassion and inclusion of all is what inspires the school community. Living out their charisms, they are inspired by Jesus, and are a community of learners, committed to wellbeing for all, all the time, seeking goodness and fullness of life. Members of the Tenison Woods Catholic School community are guided by the words “In omnibus caritas” – In all things Love.
This year’s Staff Reflection Day journey began when Josephite Sister Mary-Ann Casanova, shared narratives based on Father Julian Tenison Woods’ letters, photos and books. She spoke about the great importance he placed on mission and outreach. Staff members were fortunate to have spent time with Sister MaryAnn who is somewhat of an expert on Father Julian Tenison Woods, having recently completed a PhD dissertation on him.
Staff then followed in the footsteps of Father Julian Tenison Woods by ‘putting mission into action’ as they spent the day working alongside staff and clients of Orana at their Ridleyton site. Orana is a disability service and support organisation which provides supported employment, training, housing, respite, and life skills support to South Australians with disability. Their aim is to provide people with disability the chance to live and work as part of their community, as independently as possible.
Tenison Woods Catholic School Staff Reflection Day took them to Orana.
Staff volunteered their time to transform their front garden into a vibrant space of welcome, beauty and tranquility. This highlighted the idea that community spirit shines brightest when people come together to achieve a common goal. The redevelopment of the front garden is a testament to this spirit. Together they planted new greenery, arranged garden beds, adorned pots with mosaics, and ensured that the space was both beautiful and accessible to all. A highlight of the space is a stunning Tree of Life mural painted using the handprints of all involved; symbolising growth, connection, and the nurturing spirit that the garden and the community embody.
This was more than just a landscaping project; it was a story of community, collaboration, and the enduring impact of shared values. The garden is intended to be a space where Orana’s clients can engage with nature and find peace in their daily lives. It stands as a vibrant, living symbol of collaboration, where every plant is a reminder of the natural environment that Father Tenison Woods loved spending time in. Gardens and green spaces offer a tranquil environment where people can connect with nature and enjoy the therapeutic benefits through the sights, sounds, and smells of being outdoors in nature.
As the garden continues to grow and flourish, it will serve as a place of beauty and reflection, enjoyed by clients, staff, and visitors alike. It is a powerful symbol representing the interconnectedness of all of God’s creation and the strength of community and working together to achieve a common goal. It is a place that embodies the spirit of Orana and Tenison Woods Catholic School — both are places where everyone is welcome, and where everyone can contribute to creating a better, more inclusive community for all.
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