A Pope Among Us: St Augustine’s College Reflects on the Election of Pope Leo XIV

It’s not every day a school community can say they’ve shared lunch, conversation, and Mass with a man who would one day become Pope. But for the staff, students, and families of St Augustine’s College, that is exactly what makes the recent election of Pope Leo XIV - formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost OSA - feel so personal.

There’s a kind of wonder in it. “We think it’s pretty cool that a pope has visited our school.” said Phillip H., a Year 6 student who learned the news during morning announcements. It’s the sort of simple, honest excitement that says it all.

More than just a visit

Fr Robert, as many still warmly refer to him, visited the College during his time as Prior General of the Augustinian Order - not once, but multiple times. He walked the corridors, joined assemblies, handed out sporting awards, and celebrated Mass with students and staff. “Robert Prevost OSA, Prior General of the Augustinians at the time celebrated with us at every level. From participating in all the Youth Encounter activities to saying Mass on Collaroy Beach… On each of his visits, his humility and willingness to spend authentic time in community was appreciated by all who met him,” recalls Margaret McElhone, Religious Education Teacher.

For some of our senior students, that memory isn’t just historical - it’s part of their school’s living identity. “Our school has a strong sense of community and having had the new Pope visit our College as the Prior General of the Augustinians creates a connection for all of us to the larger church,” says Jayden K., College Captain. “Knowing Pope Leo has walked our grounds, shared our values... it makes the Church feel a little closer.”

A reflection of our values

Principal Jonathan Byrne described the election as a moment of deep pride and joy for the Augustinian community. “Today we join the global Augustinian community in celebrating the Augustinian honour that has been granted to Pope Leo XIV, and especially our local Augustinian Priests, Fr Senan and Fr Tan, our College Chaplains. There is a deep sense of privilege within the Augustinian community... This moment fills our community with deep pride and joy. Pope Leo has walked the same path of Augustinian values that shape our school - Truth, Love, and Community. His election reminds us that we are part of something much greater, yet profoundly connected.”

Those values can sometimes feel abstract in day-to-day school life - until a moment like this brings them into sharp focus. As Mr Byrne explained, “Our core values of Truth, Love, and Community may seem simple and overused. However, the profound meaning that the Augustinian charism places on these words aligns with our goal, as described by Saint Augustine, to ‘live together in harmony, being of one mind and one heart on the way to God’. The values of communion in human relationships and the profound interiority in our relationship with God is deeply embedded in the heart of our new Pope.”

Humble beginnings, servant leadership

Out of 266 Popes in history, only 34 have come from religious orders. Pope Leo XIV now joins that list - a testament to a life of service rooted in the simplicity of shared community and deep inner faith.

It’s a reminder that leadership in the Church - like leadership at school - is about more than standing at the front. It’s about listening. About walking with others. About building relationships grounded in compassion and purpose.

“The appointment of Pope Leo has created an opportunity for us to walk in the footsteps of our Pope, both physically and Spiritually. He has paved a path within our school to connect to our sense of Catholic and Augustinian spirituality and building community.” said Samuel H., Mission Prefect.

Looking ahead with hope

While no plans have been announced, there’s quiet hope within the College that Pope Leo XIV might one day return to Australia - perhaps even to the Northern Beaches - in his new role.

“While it is too early to know whether another papal visit to Australia will take place, we remain hopeful and prayerful. In the spirit of Augustinian hospitality, Pope Leo XIV is always welcome at our College.” says Mr Byrne.

Until then, the College community continues to walk forward in faith - grateful, inspired, and a little awed that they’ve shared part of their journey with someone who now carries the hopes of millions.