Student Leaders Share Conversations of ‘Hope’ with the Bishop

August 2025

Seventeen student leaders from five Catholic secondary colleges within the Diocese of Sale gathered for an inspiring meeting with the Bishop, Most Reverend Greg Bennet.

This meeting offered students an opportunity to discuss their leadership journeys and the actions they have taken to inspire their school communities to become, ‘Pilgrims of Hope.’

Participating schools included St Francis Xavier College, Beaconsfield, St Peter’s College, Cranbourne, Marist-Sion College, Warragul, Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College, Leongatha and Lavalla Catholic College, Traralgon.

Student leaders were selected by their school communities last year and entrusted with the mission of fostering faith, connection and engagement within their schools and parishes. During the meeting with Bishop Greg, they addressed key questions which invited reflection and vision:

·       If God were to whisper into our hearts, what would He urge us to do to grow stronger as a school or parish?

·       How can you inspire your school community to be Pilgrims of Hope in 2025?

·       In what ways will you support one another as leaders in your school communities in 2025?

Student groups presented their initiatives and reflected on their experiences, sharing challenges and successes they have experienced together. Some of their projects included organising fundraising events, hosting sports and music festivals, engaging in youth ministry initiatives, mentoring, promoting social justice, and participating in community outreach efforts and more. In particular the student leaders reflect on their experience of public leadership and their witness in the context of their catholic college.

Students expressed enthusiasm for their ongoing projects, sharing captivating stories of personal growth as they navigate their roles.

Quote from Bishop of Sale, Most Reverend Greg Bennet: 

“I am deeply inspired by the passion and commitment of our student leaders in living out the mission of Catholic education. Their dedication to being Pilgrims of Hope not only uplifts their individual schools but also strengthens our entire community. Together, we have the power to create a brighter future.”