18 May 2026 · 2026-05 newsletter
The following are words of appreciation by the Principal, Jesse Yock, of Queen of Apostles Primary School in Riverton, Western Australia, on the occasion of the 75th Anniversary of the Sisters arriving in Australia.
The sisters founded the school in 1956, five years after their arrival in Australia. It is a great privilege to be here today as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Schoenstatt Sisters – a truly significant milestone in the life of the Church, and in the story of our community at Queen of Apostles. My name is Jesse Yock and I am the current principal.
On behalf of our school, I would like to acknowledge and honour the Schoenstatt Sisters as the founding order of Queen of Apostles Primary School. Your presence, your faith, and your commitment have shaped the very heart of who we are today. The charism of Schoenstatt is not just part of our history – it continues to live and breathe in our school community each and every day. As a Catholic school, we speak often about identity, mission and spirit. For us, these are not abstract ideas – they are grounded in the legacy you have entrusted to us. A legacy of deep faith, strong relationships, and a commitment to forming young people who know they are loved, valued and called to make a difference in the world.
One of the most visible and meaningful ways we honour this connection is through our Early Learning Centre, proudly named after the Schoenstatt Sisters. It is a place of joy, nurture and belonging – and without question, one of the most special parts of our school. It stands as a daily reminder of your influence and the foundations you laid.
We are also incredibly grateful for the ongoing relationship we share. It is not simply a connection of the past – it is alive and active. We love welcoming Sr Lisette into our classrooms, where she so generously shares her faith, her story and her wisdom with both our students and staff. These moments are powerful – they connect our young people to something bigger than themselves and deepen their understanding of our Catholic identity.
Our connection continues beyond the school. Our students regularly journey to the Schoenstatt Shrine in Armadale for their sacramental retreats – a place of reflection, peace and encounter. It is a sacred space that leaves a lasting impression on our students as they take important steps in their faith journey. And as a staff, we value the opportunity each year to give back in a small way – assisting with cleaning at the Shrine. It is a simple act, but one that reflects our gratitude and our desire to continue this partnership in a spirit of service.
Today, we give thanks. We give thanks for your vision, your courage and your unwavering faith over 75 years. We give thanks for the generations of Sisters who have served, led and inspired. And we give thanks for the enduring relationship we are so fortunate to share.
May God continue to bless the Schoenstatt Sisters as you carry forward your mission. And may we, at Queen of Apostles, continue to honour your legacy through the way we educate, lead, and live out our faith each day. Congratulations on this remarkable milestone.
Filed underNewsletter · Sisters of Mary