FINDING GOD IN ALL THINGS
By Katrina Varis
This July, I joined a group of Xavier College parents and embarked on a spiritual journey, walking the Australian Ignatian trail in South Australia, retracing the steps of the Jesuits who played a pivotal role in the region’s religious history when they arrived from Europe in late 1848.
Our pilgrimage commenced in Kapunda and concluded at Sevenhill, covering 85km over four days. The pilgrimage was not only a chance to delve into the rich heritage of the Jesuits and St Ignatius but also an opportunity for the parents to come together, strengthening their bonds with one another and reaffirming their shared faith.
The story of the very first Jesuits was shared with our group as we embraced our own life journey and, by association, that of St Ignatius as well. There were days filled with deep conversation, supportive and caring companionship and at other times, there was meaningful silence. We travelled long distances and encountered challenges along the way, including walking into a strong headwind for 22km on day three, but each of us completed the journey with the support and encouragement of one another. We were also thankful that the rain stayed at bay for the duration of the journey.
Walking in silence was how we commenced each day. This concept of meaningful silence – no music through headphones in the ears, and no talking to our companions – was a foreign concept to my teenage children. But by day three, I was surprised at how quickly the time in silence had passed. I wonder now, after returning home, how I can include this meaningful silence in my daily life.
Short of banning all electronic devices in my household or actually returning to regional South Australia, I suspect meaningful silence and being at one with nature are unlikely to return any time soon! Sadly, my compromise may be to just try and settle for greater balance, while ensuring that I make time for myself.
The journey concluded with a warm welcome at Sevenhill, site of the first Jesuit college in Australia, where our own education on the historical significance of the Jesuits and Saint Mary MacKillop in South Australia continued. The group explored the grounds, including the St Aloysius’ Church and the winery – the first in the Clare Valley – which are testament to the Jesuits’ contributions to education and viticulture in the region.
As parents, we returned from Sevenhill with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the Jesuit tradition that underpins the values of Xavier College. It was a journey that went beyond sightseeing; it was a pilgrimage of the heart, and the shared experiences will resonate with me for years to come, long after the blisters on my feet have healed.
Banner image of the Xavier College parents who walked the Australian Ignatian Trail reproduced with permission from the author, who is pictured third from right.