Our theme for 2025 is "Let your light shine before others" (Matthew 5:16)
The scripture "Let your light shine before others" (Matthew 5:16) is about using our unique gifts, kindness, and actions to make a positive impact on the world around us. As Catholics and Dominicans, this verse is especially meaningful because it calls each student to be a source of goodness, truth, and compassion, reflecting God’s love and light to others.
Let your light shine before others also means that this is what Jesus would look like through our lives.
In the Dominican tradition, which values truth, study, and service, "letting your light shine" means courageously standing up for what is right, sharing knowledge to benefit others, and being a role model through service. It emphasizes that everyone has their own gifts and strengths, and by using these gifts to help others, they allow God’s light to shine through them.
In practice, this could mean showing kindness to colleagues and classmates, speaking up for justice against injustice (like our Hope Week for the DRC, our Holy Lands week etc) being diligent in studies (getting assessments in on time), or serving the community.
The verse reminds students (and us!) that their actions matter and can inspire others. They can shine their light to live their own best lives, shine their light to show others it is okay for them to do the same, and encourage them to do the same.
In shining our light, we live out the Dominican values and make the world a better place.
