News Archive
The opening ceremony challenge: commitment the key
03 March 2010
Brenton Stacey
Public relations officer
Staff members and students on Avondale College's Lake Macquarie and Sydney campuses have marked the beginning of the academic year during opening ceremonies, March 3.
President Dr Ray Roennfeldt spoke during opening convocation on the Lake Macquarie campus. He used the Bible stories of Cain and Abel, Balaam and his donkey and Saul and his conversion as examples of when God asked this question: "What are you doing?" These stories are exceptional, said Ray, because God does not appear to speak directly to us. "I'm not saying He can't or He doesn't, but we often have to work out what is God's will for our lives." He reminded his audience of the help on offer: the Bible; the Holy Spirit; and the Christian community.
The decision to study at Avondale is a good response to the challenge of knowing what to do, said Ray, because of the opportunities to grow intellectually, practically, socially and spiritually. "God has committed everything to us. Avondale is committed to providing the experience we're famous for. With commitment from you, this can be the Year of Amazing."
The Avondale College Alumni Association presented an Apple iPod Touch to Avondale Student Association president Jared Benard to symbolise its commitment to maintaining contact with students once they graduate. "When you leave, you may be broke as I was," said president Pr Desmond Hills, "so you will be pleased to know membership is free."
Nola Hawken, an elder of the local Awabakal people, welcomed staff members and students to country.
Chaplain Dr Drene Somasundram illustrated her message during forum on the Sydney campus by referring to Italian artist Michelangelo's David. He created a masterpiece from a disfigured block of marble abandoned 40 years earlier by another artist, said Drene. She then challenged students to think of themselves as God's David.
Caption: President Dr Ray Roennfeldt speaks during opening convocation on Avondale College's Lake Macquarie campus.
Credit: Ann StaffordBack to the News Archive
