In John 15, Jesus uses beautiful imagery to describe how God helps us grow: “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit… while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” This is what we might call the Pruning Principle—the idea that growth often requires letting go.

I recently had the privilege of attending the biennial Anglican School’s Commission ASCent Conference held in Noosa. One of the keynote speakers was Dr Simon Breakspear, a globally recognised expert in educational leadership, change, and improvement, and author of the book, The Pruning Principle, a practical guide for achieving better outcomes without putting more pressure on staff and resources.

In both our work and personal lives, this principle challenges us to reflect on what might be holding us back: are there habits, commitments, or even mindsets that no longer serve us well? Pruning can feel like loss or disruption, but in truth, it’s an invitation to live more intentionally and fruitfully. It may mean creating space in our calendars, setting healthier boundaries, or letting go of things we do simply out of habit, not because they help us thrive.

Jesus doesn’t just talk about this principle, he lives it. He shows us how to trust God in seasons of change, and he reminds us that pruning is never punishment; it’s care. It’s the Gardener’s loving work in us, so that we may flourish.

I started by pruning the simple things, like unsubscribing to apps and mailing lists. It took a while, but it has been worth it. I also looked at the paid subscriptions I have accumulated and cancelled many of them. Most of which I had no time to read or watch anyway. All of this is pretty small stuff but has made a significant impact on my daily life.

Let’s face it, our lives are so busy, and it often feels like we are constantly adding more and more into our already heavy workloads and calendars. Having the wisdom to discern what to hold onto and the courage to release what we no longer need is empowering and liberating.

Another keynote speaker was former teacher and Christian Brother, Br Damien Price, who spoke about service learning, referring to St Teresa of Avila who said, “Christ has no hands except yours. No eyes. No feet – except yours! Yours are the eyes with which he looks compassion on the world. Christ has no body now but yours.”

Service is not just something we do; it’s who we are called to be. This means going beyond ticking boxes or doing good deeds for appearances. St Teresa invites to understand that when we serve others with compassion, humility, and sincerity, we become the living, breathing expression of Christ’s love in the world. And in the words of Br Damien, “what we do with our hearts affects the whole universe.” We need to live and breath the love of Christ, sharing with everyone we encounter.

Cup Noodle Drive for Rosies

Elizabeth Wigley in Year 3 is continuing her wonderful work with Rosies this year by running an instant noodle cup drive. Purchasing instant noodle cups may not impact our grocery budget but it means a lot to the hundreds of people in our own community who struggle to get a warm meal in their tummies.

Elizabeth is asking that next time you are buying some groceries, please throw a cup of noodles into the trolley to help those in need. Noodle donations can be dropped off at Junior School reception or at the Chapel any time before Friday June 6. 

Reverend Jane Marktosis

College Chaplain