Religious Education News
Welcome back to another school year. I trust you and your family have enjoyed a restful school break and are ready for all that 2023 will bring. A special welcome to our Kindergarten students, our new students and staff and new families.
Our vision “Learning Together, Shaping Futures” and our Core Values of Faith, Responsibility, Respect, Learning, Community and Celebration are a focus in our Religious Education lessons over the next few weeks. Take some time to talk about these values at home.
Church Year- Ordinary Time
We are currently in what the Church refers to as "Ordinary Time." Ordinary Time is a time to learn and follow the teachings of Christ in our daily lives, to grow as his followers, and to become better able to give witness to his Good news in our everyday lives. At the conclusion of this time we then begin Lent, with a celebration called Ash Wednesday. Our St Columbkille's community will take part in church and liturgy events on this day. More information will be forthcoming.
Leaders Induction
On Friday 17th February our St Columbkille's community will celebrate our Year 6 Leaders Induction. In the afternoon our Year 6 leaders will be inducted into their respective leadership groups. We pray these students continue to guide and serve us throughout the year by being the best leader they can be.
National Apology Anniversary
On the 13th February, Australia commemorates the 15th anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen Generations. In 2008, the then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, presented this apology in the Australian parliament which was a momentous occasion of recognition and reconciliation in our nation’s history. It was a moment of solidarity and empathy that could be shared by everybody who heard it. National Apology Day is a day to remember and pray for the children who were taken away from their families and homes and commit to right the wrongs of past injustices and build a bridge of respect between all people.
Creator God, Creator Spirit, God of the Dreaming, empower us to honour the history of this Great South Land. Help us to remember the story of those who have gone before us and to ensure the future is one of peace, reconciliation and harmony for all who walk this land. AMEN
Project Compassion Launch
On Tuesday 21 Feb from 10am, St Columbkille's will be hosting the CEDoW Caritas Project Compassion Launch. This is an exciting and welcomed opportunity for our school community. Schools from within our Diocesan will take part in this celebration acknowledging the beginning of Lent. Our families can give generously during this time by bringing in any loose change from home to place in our class money boxes. We continue to pray for all people and nations to live in solidarity showing values of justice, love and compassion.
Family Parish Masses
In 2019 the parish and school implemented a combined Mass on the first weekend of each month. Students and their families are involved by way of reading and offertory. Not only do families enjoy celebrating the Eucharist with members of the community, you can also stay behind for a wonderful morning tea and chat. Each family brings a plate to share.
We have planned these gatherings again in 2023 so if your child/children and other members of the family are willing to be involved please let me know. Our next celebration will be held on Sunday 5th March.
Have a great fortnight, God bless!
Mrs Jo Herring - Religious Education Coordinator