The Power of the Unseen, the Joy of Giving
“We live by faith, not by sight.” — 2 Corinthians 5:7
These words have echoed in my mind this week, as I had the privilege of joining our Year 11s on their camp — a rite of passage as they prepare to step into leadership in 2026. Around the campfire, we spoke about the power of the unseen. That the moments which truly shape us are not always visible — not the awards or certificates, but the steady habits, quiet resilience, and small acts of kindness that accumulate over time.
I explained to the Year 11s that this theme is especially powerful as they look toward their final year of schooling. Next year, as Year 12s, they will be visible in new ways — leading assemblies, guiding younger students, shaping culture. It will be their chance to express both their individuality and their collective bond as a cohort entering their fourteenth year of schooling, moulded by all the experiences that have preceded them. Every unseen struggle, triumph, friendship, and lesson will give shape to the visible leaders they are becoming.
It was such a beautiful and emotional ceremony — one that is hard to put into words, and one that has lingered with me ever since. Please enjoy a few images from the evening, kindly captured by Mr Callaghan. It truly felt like a Godly Moment: the beauty of the sky mirroring the beauty of the occasion, reminding us of the sacredness of this stage in our young people’s journey.
And in many ways, that same truth applies to all of our students. Growth rarely happens in straight lines. It is the product of countless moments, both large and small — some long and demanding, others fleeting but still profound. The discipline of showing up when it’s hard. The recovery from illness or setback. The spark of curiosity in a lesson. The encouragement of a friend. Each day at school, and no doubt in your homes, you will see glimpses of this growth and wonder, “Where did that come from?” The answer is often hidden, unfolding quietly, but the impact is unmistakable. The unseen is powerful — and it is what makes the seen so extraordinary. And it is at this time of year, in Term 3, that so much of that growth becomes visible — confidence rising, independence strengthening, and character shining through in ways that remind us how far our young people have come.
That unseen faithfulness flows beautifully into what we celebrate as a community in our Giveathon. Our Wonderland theme has brought imagination, kindness, and courage to life. From the Junior School’s support of the Stroke Foundation, to the Middle School’s commitment to the Maddie Riewoldt Foundation, to the Senior School’s advocacy for Angelman Syndrome Australia, every part of our community has played its part.
And soon, we will mark the end of Term 3 together in colour and creativity — with costumes, laughter, and connection — as we honour the wonder within each of us and the joy of giving. As Mother Ann has reminded us, “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). Giving with joy transforms both the giver and the receiver, and we are privileged to see that transformation happening here at All Saints.
So as we pause for the holiday break, I give thanks for all that has been seen — and all that has been unseen. For the growth in our young people, the dedication of our staff, and the countless ways families nurture and support from behind the scenes. Together, we are building a community that not only celebrates achievement, but also values the quiet, faithful work that makes it possible.
Matt Corbett
Principal
