ANZAC Day Commemoration

Last week, our school community gathered to commemorate ANZAC Day and the 110th anniversary of the Gallipoli campaign. During the liturgy, we reflected on John’s Gospel, 15:1–17. This passage is part of the Farewell Discourse, where Jesus prepares His disciples for His death. In verse 13, Jesus says, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” These words give profound meaning to His sacrifice—Jesus died for our sins so that we might have eternal life.

Just as God gave His Son for us, on ANZAC Day we pause to remember and give thanks for the many who have made great sacrifices so that we may live in peace and freedom. We continue to pray for peace in our community and throughout the world.

Thank you to the students who assisted with the readings, the defence families who attended, and all members of our community who were able to join us.

Easter Colouring Competition

Congratulations to the winners of our Easter Colouring Competition! We were thrilled to receive so many creative and beautifully decorated entries, which are now proudly on display throughout the school. Thank you to all students who participated and helped spread the joy and spirit of Easter through their artwork.

Term 2 Whole School Focus

This year at St Michael’s, our Whole School Focus theme is “Walking Together in Friendship.” This theme reflects our school’s vision to live and learn in harmony with one another. Guided by Jesus’ teachings in the parables from Luke’s Gospel, we are learning what it means to be a caring and compassionate friend. 

Last term, we focused on walking together with a listening heart. This term, our focus shifts to walking together with acceptance and inclusivity. Students will explore the importance of welcoming others, celebrating individuality, and fostering a sense of belonging. These friendship values will be embraced in classrooms and recognised through our Harmony Awards.

Honouring Mary

Mary is the first and greatest among the saints. Through her openness to the Holy Spirit, the gift of Jesus came into the world. She is known by many important titles, including Our Lady of Perpetual Help, after whom our parish is named.

For centuries, the Catholic Church has dedicated the entire month of May to honouring Mary. During this special month, Catholics take part in various devotions, including the daily recitation of the Rosary. A long-standing tradition is the crowning of Mary’s statue with flowers — a beautiful tribute of faith and love.

If you would like to join the parish in prayer, a decade of the Rosary will be prayed at 5 pm on Sundays at St Michael’s Church during the month of May. All are warmly welcome.

Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is a special occasion that honours mothers, mother figures, and the vital influence of mothers in our lives and society. The Catholic Church has recognised and celebrated the importance of mothers since its earliest centuries.

This Sunday, we come together to celebrate and give thanks for the mothers in our lives. In particular, we offer our heartfelt gratitude to all the St Michael’s mums for their love, support, and dedication. We ask God to bless them today and always.

We look forward to welcoming many of our mums this Friday at our open classrooms from 8:20 am and at the Mother’s Day liturgy, which will be held at 9:30 am in the church.

Prayer for New Pope

Loving Father,

Guide Your Church in this time of transition.

Grant the cardinals discernment, wisdom, courage and unity

As they seek to do your will.

Prepare the heart of the man You have chosen-

A shepherd of compassion, faith and hope.

May he lead us in love and truth.

We trust in Your perfect plan.

Amen