SCHOOL FACTIONS
FACTION SAINTS
The school faction system is organised to promote team spirit, pride and loyalty through various activities undertaken. Children are placed in a faction from Kindergarten and will remain in this faction during their schooling at St Helena’s.
Ignatius Loyola was born in 1491. In 1521, while fighting as a soldier, he was badly wounded in the knee during a battle. While recovering, he began reading about Jesus Christ and the saints. This inspired him to change his life and become a “soldier of Christ.” Later, while studying at the University of Paris, Ignatius gathered a group of friends who shared his mission. They called themselves the Companions of Jesus, but others began calling them the Jesuits. Their group became known as the Society of Jesus. Today, Jesuits continue their work around the world. They are involved in education (primary, secondary, and university), pastoral care, social services, and helping refugees. Ignatius Loyola died on July 31, 1556.
Francis Xavier was born on 7 April 1506 in the Kingdom of Navarre, in what is now Spain. As a young man, he was known for being athletic, a talented runner, and a natural leader among his classmates. He was also a loyal friend and someone who deeply loved God. Francis became one of the co-founders of the Society of Jesus, also known as the Jesuits, alongside Ignatius Loyola. He dedicated his life to sharing the message of Jesus with people around the world. As a missionary, he travelled to places like India and Japan, preaching, teaching, and baptising thousands. Because of his incredible work, he was named the Patron of Missions and is remembered as one of the greatest missionaries in the history of the Church. Francis Xavier died in 1552, but his legacy continues to inspire people to live with faith, courage and love.
Neumann
Xavier
Ignatius
John Neumann was born in Europe on 28 March 1811 and later moved to New York, where he became a Catholic priest. His first mission was to serve immigrants, and because he spoke seven languages fluently, he was able to share the message of God with people from many different backgrounds in their own language. John was known for his tireless work – he visited the sick, comforted those in need, trained teachers, and supported families. Eventually, he became a bishop and helped open hundreds of Catholic schools, making education more accessible to children. Even as a bishop, he remained close to students and continued teaching, showing his deep love for children and learning. John Neumann died on 5 January 1860, and he is remembered for his dedication to faith, education, and service to others.
MacKillop
Mary MacKillop, also known as Saint Mary of the Cross, was born in Fitzroy, Melbourne on 15 January 1842. Mary was an Australian Catholic nun who, along with Father Julian Tenison Woods, founded the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart. Together, they opened schools and welfare centres across Australia and New Zealand, focusing especially on helping children in poor and rural communities receive a good education. Mary’s work showed great courage, deep faith, and a strong commitment to caring for those in need. Even in difficult times, she trusted in God’s love and remained dedicated to serving others. Today, she is remembered as Australia’s first saint and a powerful example of compassion, strength and service.
