Northern Beaches school’s surprise connection to Pope Leo XIV
While dignitaries and millions and devout Catholics are now clamouring for the opportunity to meet the brand new pope, one Sydney school has already been there, done that.
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While dignitaries and millions and devout Catholics are now clamouring for the opportunity to meet the brand new pope, one Sydney school has already been there, done that.
Newly-elected Pope Leo XIV visited St Augustine’s College in Brookvale in 2008 when he was known as Father Robert Prevost, meeting with students and staff for World Youth Day.
The then-global head of the Augustinian order joined students and staff in prayer, celebrated mass on Collaroy Beach, and returned the following year to hand out sporting awards.
Religion teacher Margaret McElhone spent time alongside the Pope during his visits, and recalled being “honoured” by his visit.
“His humility and willingness to spend authentic time in community was appreciated by all who met him,” Ms McElhone said.
The school is named for St Augustine, the Catholic saint whose teachings include the importance of community and a shared pursuit of God.
Pope Leo XIV referred to himself as being a “son of St Augustine” in his first speech on the Vatican balcony.
When news of Pope Leo’s election broke in Sydney, current students at St Augustine’s welcomed the “pretty cool” revelation the Pope had once paid them a visit.
Sixteen years on from Pope Leo XIV’s last visit, College Captain Jayden Kirby said the event still gave even current students a sense of deeper connection to the Church.
“Our school has a strong sense of community, and knowing the new Pope once walked through here makes it feel even stronger,” he said.
And while it’s too early to know whether the Pope will return to Australia, St Augustine’s door is always open to the pontiff, according to College Headmaster Jonathan Byrne.
“In the spirit of Augustinian hospitality, Pope Leo XIV is always welcome at our college,” Mr Byrne said.
College Chaplain Father Senan Ward OSA, said the selection of an Augustinian pope was “the greatest honour that we could receive.”
Originally published as Northern Beaches school’s surprise connection to Pope Leo XIV
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