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The day focused on the vocation of Mary MacKillop and the history of our school from its humble beginnings in 1871.  The intention of the Seminar Day was for students to:

• Deepen their understanding of a personal vision and vocation in life
• Reflect on how Mary MacKillop’s call to, and acceptance of her vocation, impacted on her life and can serve as a guide for us today
• Explore the history and importance of the establishment of Catholic Education in the area
• Participate in an historical walk, taking in the important sites related to the history of Caritas College
• Visit the gravesite of Sister Mary Laurencia Honnor
• Design and participate in a liturgy to enhance their own spirituality

The day began at the gravesite of Sister Mary Laurencia Honnor who, in 1878 at the age of 19, died as result of injuries sustained whilst trying to extinguish an oil lamp. Sister Laurencia’s story is well-known amongst students and so a short prayer service was conducted to mark the start of our day. We then moved to All Saint’s Parish Church to conduct the remainder of our reflection time. Students participated in activities designed to connect the vocation of Mary MacKillop and our school theme of “Bring Light to Earth” with the history of our College and the pioneering women, who with Mother Mary, set out to educate the poor and marginalised in outback South Australia and with an emphasis on Port Augusta and Caritas College.

The day ended with an historical walk, taking in the important sites related to the history of Caritas College and Mary Mackillop and the Sisters of Saint Joseph. The day therefore provided opportunities for the students to connect with the stories of Mary Mackillop and the history of our College in an authentic and tangible way.