May the peace of Christ be with you always! 

Doing God’s work is not always loud, visible, or applauded. Often, it is quiet—hidden in the small, faithful choices we make each day. It is in the kindness no one notices, the patience we offer when it is difficult, the forgiveness we give without recognition, and the love we show even when it is not returned. 

We live in a world that values being seen and heard, but God looks at the heart. Our actions—simple, sincere, and rooted in love—can speak more powerfully than the most eloquent words. As it says in Gospel of Matthew 6:3, “Do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” This reminds us that the truest acts of service are not done for praise, but for God alone. 

When we serve in silence, we allow God to be the one who is seen. Our quiet acts become a living witness—showing compassion, humility, and mercy without needing explanation. In this way, we proclaim the Good News not just with our voices, but with our lives. 

Continue to do good, even when no one notices. Love deeply, serve faithfully, and trust that God sees every hidden act. In the silence, He is at work—and through you, His love is made known. 

Pompallier Shield
This year we were blessed to host the Pompallier Shield – an annual event where the 16 Catholic Schools in Auckland gather to compete and share faith.  The event started with a mihi whakatau in St. Luke’s Parish.  After breaking the tapu with a muffin, the contestants were led to their respective classrooms at school for their different competitions.  The event was graced by Bishop Steve who stayed until the end to witness the different competitions and see the winners.

There were seven categories, with each student participated in only one event.

• Senior Oratory (Years 11 – 13)
• Junior Prepared Speech (Years 7 – 10)
• Senior Scripture Proclamation (Years 11 – 13)
• Junior Scripture Proclamation (Years 7 – 10)
• Senior Māori Scripture Proclamation (Years 11 – 13)
• Junior Māori Scripture Proclamation (Years 7 – 10)
• Waiata (Years 7 – 13)

Prizegiving concluded the event, in the school’s auditorium, where all staff and students came together to celebrate the winners from each section.  We extend our congratulations to St Mary’s College, this year’s Pompallier Shield winners.  Congratulations to all our Sancta Maria College students who performed and represented the school with honour and pride – we extend a special congratulations to Beerlahairoi (Roi) Goetz (Year 10) for taking out the Junior scripture proclamation win for the school.

St. Dominics Catholic College were passed the Pompallier Shield candle at the end of prizegiving, as they will be the 2027 hosts.  We thank everyone for their organisation, support, and performances over the afternoon of festivities – it was a blessed afternoon, leading us all closer in faith.  We also extend our sincere thanks to Fr. Benedict for beginning the afternoon and ended the afternoon blessing us all.

Sancta Maria College Special Character continues to share their love and presence through:

• Sacrament of Initiation 
• Rosary Group 
• SMC By the Gate 
• Vinnies Retreat (thank you to Gavin, Andrea, Josh and Jehaziel for your presence at the retreat) 
• Paschal Triduum 
• Caritas Group
• Youth Night 
• Training of New Ministers of the Word and Eucharistic Ministers

Yours in Christ through Mary,

Mr. Omar Leo Tamayo
Leader of Special Character Mission and Liturgy (DRS)