By Rev. Andy Fleming, Chaplain

As you are no doubt aware, we are in the middle of a massive week as our community celebrates 40 years. Last weekend, the 40^th Gala Ball was enjoyed. Tonight, the 40^th Gala Foundation Concert is being held. On Friday, a special Foundation Day will be taking place as Bishop Mark Short will officially open the Collegians Centre in front of all students, staff and guests.

I like how the week culminates in the Collegian Centre's opening – representing all who have been a part of the Radford’s community over time. These events provide us with the opportunity to reflect on the school’s journey and transformation over the 40 years, while also casting minds forward to the school’s future and all the possibilities yet to come.

These notions of reflection mirror the significance of the number 40 in the Bible.
40 appears over 150 times in the Bible and signifies new beginnings and opportunities, transformation, how things can change and how great things are achieved by individuals and communities.

Throughout the Old Testament and the Gospel accounts of Jesus’ ministry the number 40 appears as a significant marker of time. In the Old Testament, we all know about the great rains that lasted 40 days and nights and Noah building the ark. There is also famously Moses leading the Israelites from Egypt into the wilderness for 40 years to gain their freedom. 40 was indeed significant for Moses. He fasted for 40 days and nights in preparation to receive the Law from God, and then also stayed on Mount Sinai for another 40 days to receive the Law.

For Jesus, he spent 40 days in the wilderness preparing for his ministry, and after his resurrection, before ascending to heaven he stayed on earth for another . . . you guessed it, 40 days.

In our Christian calendar, the period of Lent, the time to prepare for the mystery of Easter, is 40 days. In biblical terms, whenever the number 40 appears if suggests something meaningful. Be that individual reflection or self-examination, repentance, preparation for a task and realising personal contentment, to building and renewing spirituality.

As we enjoy Radford’s 40^th year, I pray that our community will remain a welcoming and inclusive one, while continuing to grow and enhance the opportunities for all who come here.

A Celtic blessing for our school:

Bless this school and those within.
Bless our giving and receiving.
Bless our words and conversation.
Bless our hands and recreation.
Bless our sowing and our growing.
Bless our coming and our going.
Bless all who enter and depart.
Bless this school, your peace impart.

Go in peace,

Rev. Andy