Presenting the new annual theme: Bridges of Peace

As many of you know. this year’s Foundation Day also marked the inauguration of the new annual theme: Bridges of Peace.

Ms Christine Rossi, our Ignatian Formation Coordinator, tells us more about the rationale of the theme:

In view of the war which is happening at our doorstep, in view of the many divisions we experience as a nation, in our schools and in our families, we felt that the theme needs to be one which concentrates on peace.
This theme is inspired by Fratelli Tutti which challenges us to live peace through encounter and as true brothers and sisters.
This means that we need to understand and reflect on a concept of peace that cannot exist without a notion of truth or justice. It needs to be a concept of peace that works on reconciling differences. It cannot be a wrong sugar-coated notion of peace which is mere tolerance or complacency.

“To speak of a “culture of encounter” means that we, as a people, should be passionate about meeting others, seeking points of contact, building bridges, planning a project that includes everyone.” (FT 216)

“We want to be a Church that serves, that leaves home and goes forth from its places of worship, goes forth from its sacristies, in order to accompany life, to sustain hope, to be the sign of unity… to build bridges, to break down walls, to sow seeds of reconciliation” (FT 276)

The logo was designed by Mr Simon Callus, Lecturer at the Institute of Creative Arts, MCAST. In his words:

The logo builds on the idea that a bridge of peace, ultimately is made up of people. People from opposing sides of a conflict, discussion, cultural differences etc, need to reach out to the other side and make a connection. There is no fixed structure in this logo, showing that although previous generations might have built agreements and structures of peace, it’s up to us, alive today, to maintain the peace. The figures are also stretching somewhat uncomfortably on their hands and knees – peace is not always easy or comfortable to build or maintain.

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