Responding Together

Charism in Schools

Caught by the Josephite Spirit in Diverse Ways

Both our history and our Constitutions urge us to share the gift of the Josephite charism with those who walk with us. This gift embraces the many individuals and communities who live the charism in new ways and with intrepid spirit today. We are reminded over and over, and in often surprisingly diverse ways, that God continues to gift our world with the spirit given to Mary MacKillop and Julian Tenison Woods, and their early companions.

In the spirit of Mary’s focus on education, schools in the Josephite tradition seek to live her vision of a just and compassionate world. In the everyday lives of those who journey with us, and in the leadership and advocacy witnessed in new-found Josephite involvement and commitment, these schools empower people to respond in the 21st century to the call that remains at the heart of the Josephite spirit.

AJASS – Association of Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools

AJASS is an independent Association of Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools and aims to embrace, extend, strengthen and perpetuate the charism of Mary MacKillop and Julian Tenison Woods.

By sharing ideas, events, and gatherings, schools that are part of the Association endeavour to develop and grow in the Josephite spirit.

AJASS holds regular gatherings and meetings and maintains contact through interschool activities and support, particularly through the annual Principals Conference.

Several activities occur throughout the year focused on the faith formation of staff and students. These activities include pilgrimages to significant sites in the lives of Mary MacKillop and Julian Tenison Woods, collaborative justice projects, with intra and interstate AJASS School visits.

For more information about becoming part of AJASS, please email ajassprincipals@gmail.com or visit the AJASS LinkedIn page here.


Read the latest Education and AJASS news and reflections

Pilgrims of Hope: A Message from the AJASS President

9 June 2025

Chris Gabbett – “As President of the Association of Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools (AJASS), I feel great anticipation as we prepare for the 2025 AJASS Principals Conference.”

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Pope Francis honours a life of service

7 April 2025

Pope Francis honoured Professor Emerita Anne Cummins with the award of Dame of the Order of St Gregory the Great. This honour is granted to Catholic women and men in recognition of their service to the Church through their work and community impact.

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JJAMM 2025

9 March 2025

In February, nearly 100 students and teachers – the largest JJAMM gathering ever – came together to deepen their leadership, enrich their charism, and ignite action for social justice

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