Blessed be the classrooms

The kindergarten and Mercy Centre (year 5/6 classrooms) were blessed and officially opened today, in a ceremony attended by a number of visiting dignitatries.

Max Challenor of St. John's Kindy wanted to be the first in his class to meet Bishop Robert McGukin. Picture: Jorja McDonnell

ST. JOHN'S School welcomed their littlest students to a formal service today, when the new kindergarten and primary school buildings were officially opened for learning.

Bishop of Toowoomba, Robert McGukin, was in attendance to bless the classrooms, alongside school principal Mrs Donaugh Shirley.

The entire school community was present for the event, led by emcees and school prefects Hannah Hughes and Sarah Hall.

St. John's prefects, Hannah Hughes & Sarah Hall. Picture: Jorja McDonnell

Former St. John's student and Manindanji representative Tallis Landers returned to his old stomping ground for the first time in two years, having been invited as a guest of honour for the assembly's Welcome to Country.

Other visiting dignitaries were impressed with St. John's, including executive director of Catholic Schools, Dr. Pat Coughlan, who had been spending the week in Roma for a conference of Catholic school leaders.

"St. John's has a good community spirit” he said.

"It's why I love coming to Roma”.

In his address to the school, Bishop McGukin gave thanks to all involved in the school upgrades, including the builders, Sisters of Mercy, and teachers.

Martin Kenna & Bishop Robert McGukin. Picture: Jorja McDonnell

He emphasised that the students were the most of important of all.

"I give thanks to all of you, for without students, we would have no school.

"I hope you enjoy these new buildings for many years to come.”

Miss Ela Dale, Kindergarten teacher at St. John's adores her classroom, and enjoyed the special day with her class.

"It's a wonderful space to teach in, and today has been a very exciting day.”

Sophia Parker & Chloe Parker of St. John's Kindy. Picture: Jorja McDonnell