Two decades of partnership

More than two decades ago, St Mary’s Church Busselton and the founders of Georgiana Molloy Anglican School (GMAS) began a close and enduring relationship, which continues to flourish today, according to GMAS founding member and past Chair of Council, Eleanor Lewin.

‘The relationship between GMAS and St Mary's Church is a happy and thriving one,’ Mrs Lewin said.

All three previous principals of GMAS were active members of St Mary's parish, attending services regularly and participating in the life of the parish, including serving on the Parish Council.

To support the school's staff and students, St Mary's hosts various services such as a School Eucharist at the beginning of each term for staff and a Eucharist at the end of the year for Year 12 students and their parents. The church also welcomes students each year on Pentecost Sunday for Confirmation, which is attended by the church's parishioners.

As part of its commitment to the school, St Mary's presents Bibles to Year 6 students and scholarships to outstanding musical students each year. The students perform at the Sunday morning service, adding to the church's musical worship.

Additionally, the Junior School students make an annual visit to the church to learn about its history and famous stained-glass windows. They also visit the Heritage Graveyard to read the headstones of pioneers buried there, including Georgiana Molloy and her two children.

‘Volunteering means helping others and being the best person you can be,’ says Vanessa, a Year 10 student and volunteer.

This sentiment is shared by Holly also in Year 10, who believes that volunteering not only allows her to give back to the community but also provides an opportunity to assist others who are overcoming challenging times.

With this spirit of generosity, GMAS students, St Mary's and its parishioners engage with the school's community by assisting regularly in the Church Op Shop and volunteering at Cliff's Kitchen, a weekly community lunch held in the St Mary's Family Centre. Senior members of the church visit the Early Childhood Centre annually to participate in classroom activities, singalongs with the Little Georgies, and enjoy morning tea.

Pictured from left: Playing at St Mary’s Eucharist; Visit to GMAS; Holly and Vanessa
Header image: GMAS singalong

Published in Messenger August 2023