Term One Week One

Welcome to the new school year of 2024! Last year I was warmly welcomed to the staff of St Michael’s and I feel very blessed to be part of the community for another year. In the newsletter each week I will be posting updates about the Religious Education news, the Liturgical calendar and Sacramental news. Please feel free to contact me if needed via my email:  erika.tokich@cg.catholic.edu.au

Whole School Focus

St Michael’s theme for this year is Come Holy Spirit. This is aligned with the Year of the Holy Spirit. Last week the whole staff participated in a Holy Spirit themed Spirituality Day. Staff had the opportunity to use readings and scripture to deepen their understanding of who the Holy Spirit is and deepen their connection to the Spirit. They also reflected on how the Spirit can be our advocate and help navigate the challenges and decisions in our lives. Throughout this year students will use scripture to explore who the Holy Spirit is, symbols of the Spirit and how the gifts and fruits of the Spirit can assist us.

Christian Meditation

Christian Meditation is a type of contemplative prayer. It involves stillness and silence, allowing the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart. Last week the staff were involved in some professional learning and this week, Helen Bramanathan, the Religious Education & Faith Formation Officer from Catholic Education will be coming to speak to each class about the prayer and lead them though the process. Christian Meditation, in a Catholic school is always part of our prayer life.  Recent research has shown that when we pray in this way, as well as growing spiritually, there are benefits related to our social/emotional wellbeing including reducing stress and anxiety and helping increase focus. This year at St Michael’s we will be embedding Christian Meditation into our prayer routine.

Opening School Year Mass

Everyone is warmly invited to come along to our  Whole School Mass on Tuesday the 20^th February at 9:30am in the St Michael’s Church. During the mass there will be a blessing for the Year 6 student leaders and staff of 2024.

Information Evening for Sacraments

For families with children planning to take part in our parish sacramental program this year to prepare for and receive the sacraments of Eucharist, Confirmation or Reconciliation, you are invited to attend an information evening on Thursday 8^th February at 6:00pm at the St Michael’s Church. This is for children in years 4 and 6 planning to receive the sacraments. I look forward to seeing you all there and meeting with Parish Priest, Father Mick, and Sue Collins our Sacramental Coordinator.