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  • Formation and community engagement
29 Aug 2025

©Brisbane Catholic Education, Emmuas College, Jimboomba (2025).

Did you know Brisbane Catholic Education (BCE) is home to three unique ecumenical schools that embody a spirit of unity among Christian denominations? 

Jubilee Primary School Pacific Pines, Emmaus College Jimboomba and Unity College Caloundra each represent a collaborative effort between Catholic and other Christian Churches, offering inclusive environments where faith, learning, and respect for diversity flourish. 

As we enter the Season of Creation (1 September – 4 October) - a global ecumenical celebration to unite in prayer and action to care for our common home – let’s take a look at our ecumenical schools.  

Jubilee Primary School Pacific Pines
Established in 2001, Jubilee Primary School is a partnership between the Catholic, Anglican, Apostolic, and Uniting Christian Churches in the Oxenford Parish.  

Principal Matt Edwards said at Jubilee, as an ecumenical school, the focus was on what unites rather than what separates.  

“Our foundation pastors came together out of fellowship, and what grew from that was a school,” he said.  

“The school’s house teams are named after these founding pastors, reflecting the deep roots of its ecumenical mission.” 

Jubilee’s approach to prayer and curriculum reflects its diverse Christian faith traditions.  

“We invite people to pray in the way that is most comfortable for them,” Matt said.  

“For some, it’s the sign of the cross; for others, it’s a quiet moment of reflection.”  

This inclusive ethos extends to the classroom, where religious education is designed to respect and reflect the beliefs of all four foundation Christian churches. 

Parent Anne-Louise Beck said the values of Jubilee reflect her own core values.  

“There is a sense of community that embraces a range of faiths, which is great,” she said.  

 

Emmaus College Jimboomba
 
Emmaus College began in 2002 as a partnership between the Anglican, Catholic, Lutheran, and Uniting Churches of Jimboomba and Regents Park. 

Principal Jane Egan says the College’s vision is perfectly captured in its motto.  

“Our College motto is ‘Walking with Christ’, which fits beautifully into everything we do,” she said.  

“Being named Emmaus College is all about journeying with our families, students, and community with Jesus Christ.

"It’s about growing together in faith, learning, and service, and ensuring that every student knows they are valued and loved.” 

The College’s very existence is a testament to the vision and determination of the local community. In its early stages, then-local Catholic priest Father Frank O’Dea played a key role in bringing the idea to life, working closely with the Archdiocese. Although he moved on before the College opened, his passion and leadership helped secure strong Church support. 

Emmaus College is grounded in the principle of promoting unity among Christian churches. One of the leading theological voices in this movement  at the time was Bishop Michael Putney,  who often reminded the faithful: “To be Catholic is to be ecumenical.” Today, Emmaus College continues this mission — uniting faith traditions, fostering academic excellence, and ensuring every student feels valued and supported on their learning journey. 
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©Brisbane Catholic Education, Emmuas College, Jimboomba (2025).

Unity College, Caloundra West
 
Opened in 2006, Unity College is a partnership between the Catholic and Uniting Churches in the Caloundra Parish.  

Originally envisioned by Father John Dobson and supported by Reverand Brian Gilbert, the College was born from a desire to create a school that embraced ecumenical principles.  

Principal Brett Jones said Unity College’s philosophy was built on three key ecumenical principles: dialogue in practice, inclusive processes, and solidarity of purpose.  

“These principles guide everything from curriculum development to pastoral care,” he said.  

“The college maintains strong ties with both participating churches, with clergy and school leaders meeting regularly to ensure alignment in mission and practice.” 

“In 2025, Unity College celebrates its 20th year and we were proud to welcome Dr Sally Towns for our official celebration in June 2025.  It was also a privilege to welcome back so many former staff, students and families”.  
UnityCollege.jpg 
©Brisbane Catholic Education, Unity College, Caloundra (2025).

A shared vision for education

Across all three schools, BCE’s ecumenical model promotes reconciliation, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to excellence in learning.  

Brisbane Catholic Education Formation and Engagement Executive Sharon O’Keeffe said the term Christan unites each of us who identify as followers of Jesus Christ.  

“With a variety of Christian denominations, it offers a rich opportunity to live according to the teachings of Jesus and to be part of a diverse community of believers whose ritual practices vary, marking our faith expression all the richer,” she said.  

"The Archdiocesan Religious Education Curriculum educates all students about World Religions and different Christian denominations. 

“The Season of Creation is a great time to highlight the connectivity of our ecumenical schools. The Season of Creation calls Christians from around the world to unite in prayer and action to protect Earth.  

“These schools stand as living examples of how Christian communities can come together to create inclusive, values-driven educational environments.” 

Fast facts about ecumenical schools
 
Ecumenical schools aim to:  

  • promote reconciliation and the restoration of the unity of all Christians fostered by the grace of the Holy Spirit  
  • recognise the baptismal equality of all Christians  
  • encourage ongoing dialogue and lifelong learning about ecumenism  
  • encourage a growth in understanding the traditions of the Christian communities involved in the ecumenical partnership  
  • build welcoming Christian communities with sincerity and hospitality  
  • provide opportunities to experience the richness of the religious practices of the participating traditions  
  • develop relationships that promote dignity, respect, esteem and a greater understanding for those within and beyond the ecumenical partnership  
  • acknowledge the shared wisdom within and beyond the participating traditions through collaborative partnerships and the lived expression of Christ as Servant  
  • promote excellence in learning underpinned by Gospel values and their lived expression  
  • encourage and support the vision and mission of the participating church communities

 

Religious education in an ecumenical school:  

  • enables students to understand and appreciate both their own and others’ Christian heritage 
  • communicates about religious matters from an ecumenical perspective  
  • provides one means by which students are assisted to develop their spiritual and moral capacities  
  • heighten students’ awareness of the mystery which permeates all life • enables students to grow in their knowledge and understanding of God  
  • enables students to develop their moral sensitivities and sense of responsibility • enables students to develop self-worth  
  • promotes personal and communal sustainable lifestyles and establishes community partnerships that care for God’s creation  
  • enables students to understand the role Christian faith plays in human affairs and achievements  
  • provides students with opportunities to engage in practical projects designed to promote and support a just society