The Importance of Attending Mass Together at Notre Dame College

At Notre Dame College, attending Mass as a class is an important way we nurture our Catholic Identity and support the spiritual development of our students.

Coming together for liturgy gives young people the chance to encounter the beliefs, symbols, and values of the Catholic tradition in a meaningful and communal way. These shared experiences also provide moments of calm and reflection within our busy school routines, helping students to pause, listen, and grow.

Attending Mass as a class also strengthens the sense of unity and belonging within our community. It reminds students that faith is something lived in relationship—with God, with one another, and within a wider tradition that promotes compassion, justice, and service. When students gather and celebrate together at St Brendan’s Parish Church, it reinforces the culture of respect and hope that we strive to foster in every aspect of College life.

We also emphasise to all students the importance of behaving respectfully during Mass. For some, the liturgy holds deep spiritual significance, and maintaining attentiveness and reverence ensures that everyone can participate meaningfully. Even for students from other faith backgrounds or no faith tradition, demonstrating respect shows empathy, maturity, and an understanding of what it means to share communal spaces with care. This shared responsibility strengthens the dignity and inclusivity at the heart of Notre Dame College.

Please chat to your children about whether they attend Mass with their classes and enquire what the experience is like for them. I hope that it is a positive experience for many.

Keeping the chaos holy,
Brendan Lindsay, Deputy Principal - Catholic Identity