ANZAC Day

Ever since a young age, I have attended ANZAC Day services, and this year I was given the privilege of speaking at the Grey Lynn RSA service. As I have attended more and more services, my appreciation for the efforts of New Zealand soldiers past and present has only grown. In my speech, I talked about how we share in the ‘privilege of life’ because of the sacrifice made by those who have gone before us. I drew similarities between our challenging motto ‘Confortare Esto Vir - Take Courage, Be a Man’ and the actions taken by the ANZAC soldiers. 

It was an honour to address the many gathered at a service of such significance for our country, and even more fortunate to represent our College in the process. In our daily school lives, we are taught to be resilient, determined and to persevere, but above all - to serve. With all that I have heard, read and seen, I can confidently say that there is perhaps no greater example of serving with courage than the actions taken by the ANZAC soldiers in Gallipoli. They laid the foundations of what it truly means to serve, to serve with courage, humility and love. 

This experience was a great opportunity to meet many members of our local community and share all the good things our College is doing. As my journey at St Paul's enters its final chapters, I can recall how far we’ve come since I began in 2019. In taking opportunities, we will continue to build our reputation amongst the Grey Lynn community and the wider society. A reputation of a traditional Catholic boys' school that educates and builds its students into future leaders who serve their community. Men who embody the same values of the ANZAC soldiers and who spread the good news of Christ in everything that they do.

Christ Be With You

Joseph Samuels, Head Prefect