WelCom November 2021
John Holden
The Marist St Pat’s Club 50th Jubilee celebrations saw past and present players and supporters fill the Hataitai clubrooms in Wellington over Queen’s Birthday weekend. A common theme discussed was how sporting activities and physical fitness add value and joy to life and benefit everyone involved.
Cardinal John Dew, MSP patron, celebrated Mass on Sunday 6 June. In his homily, Cardinal John noted that many at the previous evening’s dinner had commented how the values and mentoring learnt in the MSP environment, were ‘game changing’ for them. As a result they said they went on to become ‘good citizens’ to contribute to their families and Aotearoa New Zealand.
At the celebrations, tributes were also paid to the many Club administrators, players and supporters who volunteer on committees, prepare meals, clean facilities and provide financial support, the strength of camaraderie and friendships, and how families are cared for at times of sickness and hardship.
In his foreword to C’mon Red – the book written by Tim Donoghue to mark the 50th Jubilee – Cardinal John reflected how the family spirit cultivated at MSP and valuable life lessons learned show sport is for everyone.
Since its formation in 1971, MSP has been to the fore in Wellington Club Rugby caring for its members. During its 50 years, the Club’s Premier team has participated in 22 Jubilee Cup finals and has won (64 per cent) the sought-after trophy 14 times. MSP teams have also won 136 trophies throughout the Club’s 50 years.
MSP has a philosophy that sport is for everyone, regardless of religion, ethnicity, nationality, gender or ability, and that all have the right to participate and share the moments of great joy and satisfaction.
The Club’s deep tradition and values – compassion, respect, charity, integrity, perseverance, humility, loyalty, honesty, joy, forgiveness, justice, courage – come from the Catholic education system as spelled out in assemblies, classrooms, and posted throughout schools and sporting institutions.
C’Mon Red can be purchased for $50, email: donoghue.tim@gmail.com or ph 027 273 4630.