This term, Year 1/2 have been deepening their understanding of mission by showing respect for self, others and the world. We have shared the many ways we are different and discussed how every single person that has ever lived was created uniquely by God. We should view a person the same way God does which means each person deserves our respect, even if they are different from us.  

We are exploring Scripture where Jesus has shown respect for others. Jesus interacted with many people who were different. From wealthy leaders, despised tax collectors, sinners and anyone in need. Often Pharisees and his followers would complain that he was spending time with them. 

The students have been focusing on how they can show respect by the way they greet, speak and treat others at school and home. They are focusing on greeting others and using encouraging words this week.

Religious Life of St Michael’s School Community

PARISH MASS AT ST MONICA’S AND ARCHBISHOP’S VISIT

Last week, Mr Webb, myself and some of our students attended a Parish Mass at St Monica’s with the Archbishop. In his homily he talked about what a difficult year it had been and asked us to remain people of hope. He challenged us to reach out to our neighbours and to look after each other. He also spoke about the wellbeing and mental health of people during the past year where our Archdiocese has been impacted by bushfires, drought and Covid.

ST MICHAEL’S CONFIRMATION RETREAT & PARENT/CHILD FORMATION EVENING

Last Thursday, our Year 6 students spent the day deepening their knowledge about and preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation. The students enjoyed time praying together, exploring the Pentecost story using the ‘Three Worlds of the Text’, celebrating Parish Mass and engaging in a question and answer session with Fr Loi. The group also loved their pizza lunch. The teachers were impressed with how the students were open to the experience of deepening their Faith and the responsible manner in which they engaged in the day’s activities.

The parent/child Confirmation Formation evening took place via a Zoom session. Thank you to Fr Loi, Sue Collins, Meaghan Younger, Jessica Hallahan, Tash Kapantais and the St Monica’s teachers for leading this session.

 WSPT All Saints/All Souls

Thank you to 3/4 for your beautiful WSPT on Monday. It was a lovely to reflect on and remember all the people who have lived their lives really well and who have died and gone to heaven. It was also an opportunity to think about how we can follow their example and live our lives as God wants us to.

WSPT NAIDOC Week

This Friday, 6 November we celebrate NAIDOC Week as a whole school. We will reflect upon the gift of our Indigenous People and pray for healing as we walk together to make a brighter future for all. Kindergarten and Miss Lewis have been busy preparing to lead this celebration.

WSPT Remembrance Day

We will pause as a whole school community next Wednesday, 11 November to remember the sacrifices of all who have died in war. We will pray for lasting peace in our world and healing for all harmed by war. 3/4 have been busy preparing to lead us in this celebration.

Confirmation

We keep in our prayers the Year 6 candidates for Confirmation as they prepare to receive this special sacrament next week. Candidates: Phillip B, Helena B, Sienna G, Owen K, Jarrah K, Joshua L, Lucas P, Samara R, Billy S, Caitlin W & Zavier W-A.

Lord,

You send out Your Spirit to touch the hearts of all people,

so that they may believe in You and in Jesus whom You sent.

Look kindly on all candidates for Confirmation as they listen to Your voice.

Open their hearts to Your Spirit and bring to fulfilment the good work that You have begun in them.

As we prepare these children for Confirmation, make each of us an instrument of Your love.

Teach us to appreciate what is holy in others, and to be patient with what we do not understand.

Deepen our faith in the Gospel and help us to pass it on by our example.

We pray that You will continue to guide us and sustain us.

Through Christ our Lord,

Amen.

Bridgette McCann (Acting REC)