The Cloisters came to life on Monday evening as almost 2,000 of the CBC community joined in celebration of the year ahead, and an exciting new restoration to the College.
The Cloisters came to life on Monday evening as almost 2,000 of the CBC community joined in celebration of the year ahead, and an exciting new restoration to the College.Gathered under the leafy London plane tree, Opening Mass is a celebration of the College's tight-knit faith community, and honours more than 120 years of history that began when the Christian Brothers arrived in Western Australia and continued the mission of their founder at the Fremantle Catholic School for Boys.
This year, the newly restored exterior of the original school building, now Blessed Edmund Chapel, glowed under as the sun set over Fremantle, highlighting the faith tradition and heritage of the College.
Celebrating the Mass alongside Acolyte and Principal Mr Domenic Burgio, College Chaplain and Fremantle Parish Priest Fr John Sebastian called on all of the community to find strength and solace in God in 2023.
The evening also celebrated the commissioning of 12 Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist, who will enrich the College's Masses and Liturgies with their service throughout the year. The gentlemen completed a Diocesan course late last year, and were presented with blessed crucifixes to wear as they minister Holy Communion.
Twenty-six new staff were also warmly welcomed to the College, with the entire community coming together to bless those commencing their journey at CBC.
As part of the celebration, Father John Sebastian also blessed 'little Eddie' that once stood in the centre of the Cloisters. Fondly remembered by many past students, the statue has been reinstalled near the entrance to the Chapel in a new memorial garden.
After two years' hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions, the Opening Mass was a new experience for many CBC families. It is one of the most important dates of the year, strengthening the relationship between the College and its families – an integral part of encouraging boys to feel confident and supported in achieving their best.
Click here to view the gallery for the special event.
