FATHERS DAY CELEBRATION

Thank you to all those dads and father figures who joined us for our celebrations this morning. It is always wonderful to have our parents visit us and join in some fun. Thank you to the students who helped with the liturgy in some way and especially to our guestspeakers, Mr Mat Windisch and his daughters Sophie and Chloe. Also a huge thank you to Mrs Lattimore and the Year 1 students and teachers for performing at our celebration. Wishing all our father figures a wonderful day on Sunday as they reflect on how much they are appreciated and loved.

WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE CARE OF CREATION

On Monday morning at 9am St Columbkille's will celebrate the beginning of the "Season of Creation" with a liturgy acknowledging World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. Parents and friends are invited to attend this event led by our teachers, students and Enviro Ninjas. Thank you to Mrs Rathbone and Mrs Russo for organising our special liturgy. 

The Saeson of Creation begins on September 1 and ends October 4, with the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi, the beloved patron saint of ecology. During this time the entire Christian family across the world unites in a celebration of prayer and action to protect our common home. As followers of Christ from around the globe, we are co-creators with God who share a common call to care for all that God has made. This year, the theme for the season is “To hope and act with Creation”. Pope Francis reminds us that “To hope and act with creation, means above all to join forces and to walk together with all men and women of good will.” Today we join forces to give praise to God expressing our thanks for the marvellous works that have been entrusted to our
care, and we ask for God’s help as we take action to protect our planet and all of its
creatures.
Attached is a document linked to Pope Francis' document "Laudato Si" where he asks all of ask to care for creation. There are some nature based outdoor activities you may like to do as a family, especially during the Season of Creation.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

Next Thursday 5th September many of our Year 3 students, as well as students from the parish, will take part in a retreat day prior to receiving the sacrament of First Holy Communion. Students are to wear mufti clothing and bring their recess and a drink bottle to school. The Church Hospitality Group will provide a sausage sizzle and icecream for lunch, and the Sydney Youth Team will be leading part of the day.

N.B. There are 5 communion dresses which have been dropped off at the school office which are available to be used. Please contact Allison if you require more information about the sizes and styles. 

INDIGENOUS LITERACY DAY

St Columbkille's will acknowledge Indigenous Literacy day on Wednesday 4th September with a live event involving a 15 minute film and then a 45 minute livestream from the Sydney Opera House. The students will journey into three First Nations Communities across Australia: Cunnamulla in Queensland, Vincentia in New South Wales and the Tiwi Islands in the Northern Territory. This years theme is ‘Be A Proud Voice for Country’. Some of the deep and diverse ways children, Elders and families connect with Country, and the significance of Country in Aboriginal Communities will be shared.

CATHOLIC MISSION LAUNCH

On Thursday 12th September Mrs Herring and our school captains, Rosalie and Kynan, will represent our school at the Catholic Mission Launch at St Michael's Thirroul. Each school in the Diocese of Wollongong is represented as we embark on our annual fundraising and advocacy in supporting the "Catholic Mission" organisation. October is Mission Month and more information about this will be forthcoming.

YOUTH GROUP

An invitation is extended to all students in Year 6 who would like to meet for food, games and fellowship on a Friday evening each fortnight. Please see the flyer below for all the information. Any further questions please do not hesitate to contact me.