Sydney Catholic Schools have welcomed distinguished visitors from Boston College’s Roche Center for Catholic Education to mark the beginning of a week of faith formation and professional collaboration.
Dr. Melodie Wyttenbach, Executive Director and Dr. Molly McMahon, Director of Leadership Programs, will this week meet with leadership, staff and students to share their expertise in Catholic education, leadership formation and whole-child development.
Their research speaks directly to the heart of our new strategic vision of Magis 2033 which was launched last month.
Sydney Catholic Schools Executive Director Danielle Cronin said investing in leadership and formation will strengthen the system’s ability to serve families and communities.
“Dr. Wyttenbach and Dr. McMahon’s work is closely aligned to the future we are building for our students, and their visit will help us better reflect on who we are, what we believe, and how we live our mission each day in our schools.”
On Monday morning, Dr. Wyttenbach and Dr. McMahon joined the SCS Executive Leadership Team for a Mass at The Crypt of St Mary’s Cathedral, celebrated by Monsignor Gregory Flynn.
Following Mass, Dr. Christopher Hayman from SCS’ Mission and Identity team led an insightful tour of the Cathedral’s stained glass windows, highlighting the rich theological symbolism and historical narratives captured in each panel.
Particular attention was given to the Cathedral’s striking rose windows, whose intricate designs and symmetry serve as a visual proclamation of Christ as the light of the world.
The morning gathering set a prayerful and purposeful tone for the days ahead, serving as the official commencement of a week dedicated to reflection, dialogue and renewal.
“We’re really excited about spending some time with the educators of Sydney Catholic Schools and learning more about their communities and their mission,” Dr. Wyttenbach said.
“Placing the child at the centre and committing to whole person formation resonates deeply with our own research and work.”
Dr. McMahon said, “The commitment, grounded in faith, dignity and dedicated to human excellence reflects the very heart of the Catholic education tradition. This is meaningful work and we’re grateful to be part of it.”
In the coming days, Dr. Wyttenbach and Dr. McMahon, will lead faith formation sessions for school leaders and staff, as well as visit a number of schools to engage directly with principals, teachers and students.
It will be an opportunity to strengthen Sydney Catholic Schools’ commitment to forming courageous, faith-filled leaders equipped for the challenges of contemporary education.
Sydney Catholic Schools’ partnership with Boston College reflects a shared dedication to excellence, ensuring that the vision of Magis 2033 is realised in classrooms and communities across Sydney.
