Loyola House Day: celebrating the spirit of St Ignatius

Honouring a founder’s legacy

Born in 1491 in Spain, St Ignatius began his journey as a soldier before a life-changing injury led to a profound spiritual awakening. During his recovery, he immersed himself in religious texts, which set him on the path to devoting his life to God. In 1540, Ignatius founded the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), with a mission to educate and evangelise. His Spiritual Exercises, a collection of meditations, prayers and contemplative practices, remain central to Jesuit formation and Catholic spirituality. St Ignatius passed away in 1556, but his vision for spiritual renewal and educational reform continues to shape communities around the world.

Living the Ignatian tradition

At John XXIII College, we honour St Ignatius’ enduring legacy by striving to ‘find God in all things’ and to be ‘people for others’. Loyola House embodies these values, encouraging every student to act with courage and generosity, and to commit to service. The House motto, ‘as much as you are able, that much dare to do’, inspires our community to approach challenges with determination and heart​.

Loyola House Day was a joyful celebration of Ignatian spirit. Under the guidance of Catherine Roberts, Loyola House Coordinator, and the dedicated Homeroom Teachers and staff, students took part in a range of activities designed to build connection and encourage reflection. The House liturgy, team challenges gave students opportunities to build friendships, show House pride and reflect on what it means to serve others.

A highlight of the day was the Loyola House Prayer, which calls us to generosity and selfless service:

Lord,
Teach me to be generous
Teach me to serve you as you deserve
To give and not to count the cost
To fight and not to heed the wounds
To toil and not to seek for rest
To labour and not to ask for reward
Except that of knowing that I am doing your will.

Thank you to Catherine Roberts, our Homeroom Teachers and all Loyola staff for their leadership and enthusiasm in making Loyola House Day a memorable and meaningful event for every student.