People of Peace
Our 2026 theme reflects who we are becoming as a community, a school walking forward together as People of Peace.
Rich in symbol and meaning, the image invites reflection, prayer and action, calling each of us to live peace in our daily
relationships and choices.
What This Image Calls Us To
This image is a spiritual map for our year:
- The dove — peace in motion
- The menorah — courageous solidarity across faiths
- The sweeping colour and movement — walking forward together
- Scripture — peace as both gift and practice
- Columba stars — peace as hope written into creation
- The shamrock — faith heritage shaping our identity
Together, these elements invite us to be more than recipients of peace. As our theme proclaims, we are called to
become People of Peace in word, action and relationship.
A Message of Peace in Motion
At the heart of the image is the peace dove, a symbol recognised across cultures and faith traditions. In this design,
the dove is not still ... it is flying forward, reminding us that peace is active rather than passive. Peace requires courage,
compassion and a willingness to move towards one another, especially in times of uncertainty or pain.
The direction of the dove is intentional. It flies towards the menorah, a symbol of God's enduring presence and a sign
of solidarity across faiths. This reflects our Christian call to honour the dignity of all people and to stand together with
empathy, respect and hope.
Walking Forward Together
Flowing lines follow the movement of the dove, creating a sense of momentum and shared journey. These lines form
the banner for the words “People of Peace", highlighting that peace is never an individual pursuit. It is something we
learn, practise and embody in relationship with others, within our school, our parish and the wider community.
Peace Grounded in Scripture
Beneath the image sits the scripture: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you." — John 14:27
These words remind us that peace is both a gift from Christ and a responsibility we are invited to live out. The placement
of the scripture beneath the dove reflects this foundation — our actions rise from the Word of God, grounding all that we do.
Peace Written into Creation
Scattered between the dove and the scripture are small white dots representing the Columba constellation, whose
name means “dove". This subtle detail widens the meaning of peace beyond a single place or moment, reminding us
that peace is universal, enduring and written into creation itself. It is both an earthly task and a heavenly calling.
Honouring Our Irish Heritage
Rather than an olive branch, the dove carries a shamrock, acknowledging our Irish heritage and the story of St Patrick,
who used the shamrock to teach the mystery of the Trinity. This symbol connects faith, history and community, reminding
us that peace is shaped by the stories and traditions we carry together.