Commissioning Mass for New Principal of Catholic College Sale

Catholic College Sale celebrated the commissioning of its new Principal, Mr Brett Van Berkel, at a special Mass held on Sunday, 23rd February, at 5:30pm at St Mary’s Cathedral. Dakota Edwards, an Indigenous student of Catholic College Sale, opened the Mass with a Welcome to Country.

The Mass with Bishop Greg Bennet presiding and concelebrants Fr Francis Otobo and Fr Peter Bickley, was attended by special guests, including Br Darren Burge, FMS Vice Provincial of the Marist Brothers; the Rt Rev Dr Richard Treloar, Anglican Bishop of Gippsland; Dr Frank Malloy National Director of Marist Schools Australia (MSA); Darren McGregor Regional Director MSA; Peter White (Chair of MSA Regional Council); four Sisters of Our Lady of Sion; and the Board of Directors of the College.

The Catholic College Sale Liturgical Choir enriched the occasion, leading the congregation in prayer and song throughout the Mass.

During the commissioning, Bishop Greg and Br Darren formally entrusted Mr Van Berkel with the leadership of Catholic College Sale, honoring the rich traditions of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion and the Marist Brothers.

Bishop Greg Bennet blessed the new Principal: “May the Lord bless you and may the Holy Spirit guide you in bringing hope, life, and courage to this community. May St Marcellin Champagnat and Mary, Our Good Mother, watch over and inspire your work, ensuring that all in our community know they are loved by God.”

Mr Van Berkel responded: “It is an incredible privilege to serve as Principal of Catholic College Sale. I am committed to upholding the traditions of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion and the Marist Brothers while fostering a learning environment where every student can thrive.”

The Board of Directors presented Mr Van Berkel with symbolic gifts as part of the ceremony including artwork from a local artist, a plaque bearing the image of Mary and Marist Star of the Sea Province, and a beautiful bible signed by the Sisters of Our Lady of Sion.

This significant occasion marks the beginning of Mr Van Berkel’s leadership at Catholic College Sale, reinforcing the school’s commitment to faith, learning, and service in the Marist and Sion traditions.