In the last week of school, the St John’s Lambton community gathered to farewell their much-loved Principal, Shannon McGregor, in a deeply meaningful celebration shaped by the Mercy tradition and the strong sense of community she has nurtured during her time at St John’s.
The gathering took place under the COLA, where students from Kindergarten to Year 6 formed concentric circles, joined by parents and carers in the outer ring. This Circle of Mercy symbolised belonging and the values of hospitality, compassion and respect, values at the heart of St John’s and central to Shannon’s leadership.
Guided by student leaders, Shannon was welcomed into the circle and invited to walk a gentle, winding path, like a contemplative maze, encouraging reflection, presence and gratitude. This walk represented the many journeys she has shared with the St John’s community and the way she has faithfully walked alongside students, staff and families.
As she moved through each circle, students, staff, and parents offered words of blessing and affirmation. These prayers and reflections honoured the love, compassion and dedication that have characterised Shannon’s leadership, echoing the words of Catherine McAuley and reminding us of the call to be a “shining light” for others. Students presented Shannon with affirmation cards, a visible reminder of the many lives she has touched, and the gratitude held by the school community.
At the heart of the circle, student leaders shared words written by students and presented Shannon with a gift on behalf of the school. The gathering concluded with the community joining together in song, offering a shared Irish Blessing as a sign of love and hope for the road ahead. Shannon was then invited to the stage to cut the farewell cake, marking the close of this special moment of thanksgiving.
This Circle of Mercy was more than a farewell – it was a reflection of St John’s as a school community and the legacy of care, connection, and faith that Shannon leaves behind. As she begins the next chapter of her journey, she does surrounded by gratitude, prayers and blessings, knowing that she will always remain part of the St John’s story.
