ADVENT
This weekend we continue the season of Advent, with a focus on the second candle - the candle of PEACE. One of the hallmarks of the Christmas story is when the angels appear to the shepherds and proclaim, “Peace on earth,” in Luke 2:14.
Jesus brings us peace in a number of ways.
Firstly, he gives us inner peace. Because of his work on the cross, we have a chance to receive salvation and be guided by the Holy Spirit. This grants us an inner peace (John 14:27). Not only do we have the peace that comes from our promise of salvation, but we also have the peace of mind knowing God will heal this broken world and will come again.
Secondly, we have peace with others. We put aside our differences (Galatians 3:28), especially with other believers, because we belong to the same family. We have the same purpose: to let others know about the peace of Christ.
Advent is a time of great joy and expectation. Throughout December, students at St Columbkille's are learning what Christmas truly means and how we can prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus. If you’re looking for ways to engage with your son or daughter during this special time, the Catholic Education Office of Wollongong have put together a few ideas.
Link to the article:
https://www.dow.catholic.edu.au/news/celebrating-advent
Let us pray...
Our Advent Christmas Stockings are also beginning to be sent home to families each night. Take some time to focus on an activity as a family, and feel free to use the purple cloth and candle inside. Our faith is so important to share, especially as we prepare for the birth of our saviour Jesus Christ.
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS
A huge thank you to Mrs Lattimore and Ms Patton (and their band of helpers), for organising and practicing with our classes and choir, to make this years Christmas Concert such a spectacular event! From the costumes to the songs to the props and finer details, it really was a celebration fit for a king- that king being Jesus Christ.
Thank you also to everyone for their gold coin donations, which will purchase Christmas gifts for children on behalf of the St Vincent de Paul society. The total amount raised was $506.05.
FIRST RECONCILIATION
Yesterday and today our Year 2 students, along with some students from other grades, received their First Reconciliation. Father Anthony led the students through this sacrament, which allows them to receive the grace of Jesus' forgiveness for the times they have sinned and turned away from God. Thank you to all those who have helped guide these students through this sacrament of healing.
YEAR 6 GRADUATION
As we reach the end of the year it is always a little sad to be saying goodbye to our Year 6 students. Our annual Year 6 Graduation Mass/Awards and dinner will be held on Monday December 16 with Mass preceding dinner at 5.30pm. Thank you to all the staff and parents who have helped in organising this special event.
THANKSGIVING MASS
On Friday 13 December a whole school Mass will be held at 12 noon in our St Columbkille's Church. Our school community will gather to express our gratitude for the year which is ending, celebrate our achievements, and present our hopes and joys to our Lord. Parents and carers are also invited to be a part of this celebration. Our school band will be leading the music for this Mass. Thank you to Marguerite Andary for practising with the band in readiness.
CHRISTMAS MASS TIMES ST COLUMBKILLE'S CHURCH 2024
Christmas Eve Tuesday 24th December: 6.30pm Vigil Mass and 12 Midnight Mass
Christmas Day Wednesday 25th December: 9.30am Mass
Have a wonderful fortnight, preparing for the birth of our saviour, Jesus Christ!
Mrs Joanne Herring - Religious Education Coordinator
