Every year, Anglican schools across Sydney gather at St Andrew’s Cathedral to dedicate their prefects and pray for them as they begin their leadership journey. With the Cathedral seating around 500 people, it was encouraging to see it filled to capacity - 500 of tomorrow’s leaders being prayed for and commissioned.
During the service, Breanna Cummins from William Clarke College shared openly about her faith in Jesus and how it shapes her identity as both a student and a leader. Three parts of her story especially stood out to me:
She described herself as a Christian with a competitive spirit, someone who tied her worth to success, constantly anxious to perform, and often so overwhelmed that she became physically unwell.
Although she believed in God, she realised she did not understand grace. While recovering, she read Matthew 6:34 and discovered a freeing truth: “God is enough for me. I don’t need to carry the weight of everyone’s expectations. My value doesn’t depend on who is proud of me”.
She learned to see each day as a new gift from God - another chance to grow, not a test to pass.
The Archbishop then preached from John 13:1-17, where Jesus washes His disciples’ feet. He explained that this act was a “sneak preview” of the cross: that night, Jesus washed away the grime of the day and soon after, He would wash away the sins of the world. He reminded the students that those who accept the cleansing Jesus offers are called to dedicate themselves to loving, humble service.
After unpacking the passage, he offered several powerful insights:
People won’t always understand you. Leadership often requires doing what others need, even when it’s unnoticed or unappreciated.
Leadership can feel lonely, but you don’t have to lead alone.
Real power, real freedom and real leadership look like serving.
“I don’t want the person I am to interfere with the message of the gospel.”
Although these words were spoken to prefects, they are deeply relevant to adults as well. Parenting, like teaching, is a form of leadership. We, too, are called to lead with humility, grace and sacrificial love.
Please read John 13, reflect on the example Jesus gives, and consider how you might follow His pattern of servant leadership in your own life.
I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.
Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master.
- John 13:15–16
Reverend Denis Oliver
College Chaplain
