As a Catholic community, we believe it is important to pray for those who grieve the loss of a loved one, and to ask God to give rest to those who die. Through our faith we do not fear death, but still feel the pain and loss of being separated by those we love. We cherish, care for and grieve the loss of all those in our community who die, and value and comfort those who mourn them. This week, we would like to particularly remember members of our community who recently passed away.
We remember, Mrs Gillian Nicholson. Gillian was a past member of staff at Marist College, who worked closely with the College Principals as a typist and secretary, and recently passed away at the age of 94.
We remember, Mr Oscan van Leent, a former student of the then Marist College in the 1960s with his brother, who recently died at Penguin.
We remember, Auntie Olive “Ollie” Ralph. Auntie Ollie was a member of the North West Tasmanian Aboriginal community, who regularly attended the College and engaged with our students and staff. This included working with Tiagarra, running Weaving Workshops at the College, and supporting activities in past Feast Day celebrations. She had a passion for education about Aboriginal history and culture in which she had a big impact on and was a favourite of our students.
We remember, Mr John Lipsius, husband of Mrs Terri Lipsius, a long-time staff member at the College. John had been lovingly cared for by Terri and passed away at the age of 99, having been able to have a small birthday celebration earlier this year.
As a community of faith, we believe in a God of love and mercy who calls us to spend eternity with him. It is with confidence and hope that we can pray:
Lord God and Heavenly Father,
Nothing is out of your control and everything fits into your perfect plan.
Although we may not always understand, we trust in you.
We pray for Gillian, Oscar, Ollie and John that you would grant them eternal rest, and that you would call them to everlasting life through Jesus Christ.
We also pray for the family and friends of Gillian, Oscar, Ollie and John, and all those who held them close in their hearts. Bless them and give them peace as they grieve.
We trust in you, loving Father, and ask you to give comfort, strength and hope. Amen.
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.”
(Psalm 23)
Mr Patrick Fabian
Director of Faith & Ministry
