Advent

Advent, which begins the Church’s liturgical year, began on Sunday December 3rd 2022. Advent encompasses the four Sundays and weekdays leading up to the celebration of Christmas. The Advent season is a time of preparation for our hearts and minds for the anniversary of the Lord’s birth on Christmas. Last week we lit the first Advent candle which symbolises HOPE. It is sometimes called the “Prophecy Candle” in remembrance of the prophets, especially Isaiah, who foretold the birth of Christ. It represents the expectation felt in anticipation of the coming Messiah. This weekend is the second Sunday of Advent and the candle represents faith. It is called the “Bethlehem Candle” as a reminder of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem.

Celebrating Advent is an excellent way to prepare your mind and heart for Christmas.

First Holy Communion

Both our First Holy Communion Masses were special events in which our students received the Body of Christ. Father Patrick was most impressed with the students reverence and acceptance of this blessed sacrament, which was supported by our staff, families and sacramental team. The students especially enjoyed their retreat day led by the NET team.

Family / Parish Mass

This weekend is our final Family / Parish Mass for the year, Sunday 4th December at 9.30am. We have volunteers for this celebration and would like to say thank you to those families. A huge thank you to all those students, staff and families who have helped in many ways this year to make our Masses so special. If you are attending please don't forget to bring a plate of food to share. The children's playground next to the parish centre will be opened for families to enjoy. We look forward to sharing this morning with you.

Mini Vinnies

Our annual support for the St Vincent de Paul organisation of Corrimal has begun. Our Christmas hampers can commence being filled with specific items for each grade. Kinder: Christmas cakes and puddings, Years 1 & 2: Mince tarts and biscuits, Years 3 & 4: Tinned ham, tinned fruit and jelly crystals, Years 5 & 6: Cordial, custard and chocolates. These hampers are always endorsed by our families to help others in need, especially at Christmas. We will hand over these hampers during our Christmas Concert, which is a blessed community event.

Christmas Concert

Our grades, staff and other community members have been busy putting on the finishing touches for our community Christmas Concert and celebration. Everyone is invited to our musical liturgy "Prepare Ye" along with Christmas carols on Monday 12th December at 6pm in the school grounds.

Advent & Christmas Reflection Book

The Advent program is a pocket-sized book that includes daily reflections from the beginning of Advent to the Baptism of the Lord. It also includes beautiful artwork from the Masters with accompanying artwork reflections. Booklets are available from St Columbkilles Church until sold out. Cost is $5.

Parish Christmas Get Together

All parishioners and families are invited to celebrate Christmas and friendship at the 2022 Parish Dinner.

When & Where: Friday 16 December in the Monsignor Downey Hall, St Columbkille's School

Time: 6pm for a 6.30pm start

Cost: $20 per head / $50 per family (with Primary school children) / $10 per head High School students

BYO drinks and nibbles to start. Contact Mille 42840662, Lee 42845137 or Lorraine 42847487 before 3/4 December.

Alpha is coming to Corrimal and Bulli Parishes!

A growing number of parishes are offering Alpha in the diocese. Over the past few months Fr Patrick and a team from both parishes have been working towards bringing the Alpha experience to our Parishes.

What is Alpha?

Alpha is an opportunity to explore life, faith, and God in a friendly, open, and informal environment.

Who is Alpha for?

Alpha is for everyone! It is not so much a course but an experience! We will gather once a week over several weeks. Alpha brings people from all walks of life together. We will share a meal together; we will listen to a talk and then gather in small groups to discuss. Whether you are an atheist, an agnostic, or a lifelong believer or unsure of your faith – everyone is welcome!

We are now looking for Facilitators who would like to be part of the team that leads small group discussions. A Pilot program will start on Wednesday 1st February at St Columbkille’s Parish Centre

If you are interested in being a facilitator, please contact Anna on 0432 592 031 or Millie: 0409 999 196

If you would like to know more about Alpha and what it means for our parish communities click here. https://www.alpha.org.au/basics

Have a great fortnight.

Jo Herring - Religious Edication Coordinator