Raising Fathers - MENAlive Evening

In the lead-up to Father’s Day, Loyola College proudly hosted the MENAlive Raising Fathers Evening on Wednesday 3 September, welcoming fathers, father figures, and families into a space of reflection, connection, and inspiration. Held in the Functions Room, the evening was part of MENAlive’s national initiative to strengthen the vocation of fatherhood through storytelling, practical wisdom, and heartfelt dialogue.

Led by Doug Black (co-author of the book Raising Fathers), and Harin Corea, the event offered a compelling blend of personal testimony and actionable insights. Attendees were invited to explore what it means to father with clarity, courage, and compassion in today’s ever-changing world. The speakers shared raw and relatable stories—of joy and heartbreak, mistakes and growth—that resonated deeply with the men in the room.

The evening was not just about listening—it was about engaging. Fathers were encouraged to reflect on their own journeys, connect with others navigating similar challenges, and recommit to being present and intentional in their relationships with their children. The atmosphere was warm, honest, and deeply Ignatian in spirit: through discernment and love.

During Father’s Day week, this event reminded us that fatherhood is not a role to be perfected, but a relationship to be nurtured. We thank MENAlive for their partnership and all who attended for their openness and courage. May the seeds planted that night continue to grow in homes and hearts across our community.

Youth Ministry Equipping Schools

On Tuesday 9 September, a group of passionate students from our College journeyed to St Ignatius College Geelong to take part in the Youth Ministry Equipping Schools day—a vibrant gathering of young leaders from our Jesuit Companion schools from the Melbourne Archdiocese. The day was designed to deepen students’ understanding of youth ministry and empower them to become faith-filled leaders within their own communities.

Hosted in the spirit of Ignatian hospitality, the event offered a dynamic mix of workshops, skits, music, testimonials, prayer experiences, and staff- and peer-led conversations and workshops. Students explored themes of servant leadership, discernment, and the role of young people in shaping the Church of today. They were challenged to reflect on their personal faith journeys and consider how they might bring the Gospel to life through action, presence, and compassion.

One of the highlights was the opportunity to collaborate with students from our fellow JACSA Companion school in Geelong, sharing stories and strategies for building inclusive, mission-driven youth ministries. The sense of unity and shared purpose was very evident, reminding all present that they are part of a wider Ignatian family committed to justice, love, and hope.

We are proud of our Loyola students for their enthusiasm, openness, and leadership throughout the day. Their experience at St Ignatius College has undoubtedly enriched their vision for youth ministry at Loyola, and we look forward to seeing the fruits of this excursion unfold in the months ahead. We thank our hosts St Ignatius College Geelong, and particularly Mr Michael Tod (Director of Ignatian Ethos and Identity) and Mr Jarryd Atkinson (Youth Minister Mentor) for their organisation of the day and their very warm hospitality.