In times of need, our Catholic school communities embody the compassion and strength of our faith, never more evident than when faced with the tragic loss of young students.
Recently, the Santa Sophia Catholic College Gables community united in prayer to celebrate a Mass of Remembrance for two much loved children of the College: Zane Belista and Demi Tsanadis.
For College Principal, Mark De Vries, the occasion has been one of the most important moments both personally and professionally.
“Though their time with us was brief, the impact of their lives continues to resonate in our hearts and in the life of our College,” Mark said.
The heartfelt occasion provided an opportunity to bless the newly established Holy Family Memorial Garden: a beautiful, still and prayerful space that will be an expression of remembrance and peace within the school grounds. The garden will serve as an enduring tribute to Demi and Zane, who will be forever missed.
Zane was in Year 2 when he sadly passed away in May 2024. A joyful, kind and intelligent student who has left a lasting impression on those who knew him.
“His presence brought light and laughter to those around him and his memory continues to inspire and uplift,” Mark shared.
Demi passed away in December 2022, just weeks before she was due to start her schooling journey with Santa Sophia. She would have been in the Kindergarten class of 2023. Her younger brother, Will, is in Kindergarten at Santa Sophia this year and took part in the memorial event with his family.
Fr Zakaria Gayed, Parish Priest of St John the Evangelist Parish, Riverstone, presided over the liturgy which was attended by members of the Belista and Tsanadis families and their friends, staff past and present, as well as Jack de Groot, Chief Executive Officer Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese.
The outpouring of love and support is testament to the fact that our Catholic schools are more than just bricks and mortar or classrooms, they are communities grounded in faith who embrace their members as a family would.
This heartfelt memorial garden honours children who have lost their lives and reflects our call to be a Humble and Healing Church, as outlined in the Diocesan Pastoral Plan. It supports our mission to walk gently with one another, especially through grief and loss.
Special thanks to Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese for sharing this story, and our prayers are with all families and communities involved.
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Samantha Rich is a Media and Communications Specialist at Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese.
