Shrove Tuesday

Shrove Tuesday marks the last day before Lent for Christians and is traditionally a period of abstinence. This is associated with clearing your cupboards of goods such as sugar, fats, and eggs. Pancakes were traditionally eaten on this day to use up such foods before the 40-day fasting season of Lent began. Which is why our Mini Vinnies Team, along with their family helpers, cooked a huge number of pancakes for our school community. Not only did they taste delicious but they raised approximately $270 for Project Compassion. This organisation helps people in need in various parts of the world.

On Shrove Tuesday our school captains and Mrs Disibio attended the Diocesan Launch of Project Compassion at St Francis of Assissi Catholic Primary School in Warrawong. Keira and Sam were also blessed to have their photo taken with Bishop Brian, the Bishop of Wollongong. All schools now embark on their Lenten journey by focusing on Project Compassion and what we as a community can do to help.

Ash Wednesday

Two celebrations marked the beginning of Lent on Wednesday. Kinder and Years 1, 2, 3 and 4 took part in a liturgy where ashes were placed on students foreheads and the students were reminded of Jesus' love for us. Years 5 and 6 attended the parish Mass which was led by Father Patrick. 

LENT

Lent is about the amazing Love that both God and Jesus has for all of us. It's a season of 40 days in which we remind ourselves about the true meaning of our faith. In a world filled with suffering and division, let us embrace this season as an opportunity to seek reconciliation, to serve the poor and marginalised, and to deepen our faith through acts of compassion and charity.

Let us journey through Lent with renewed hope, trusting in the infinite mercy and wisdom of God.

Lenten Prayer Folders will be sent home with students during Lent. These prayer folders allow families to create their own prayers and decide on different actions or behaviours which enable us to change our ways and turn back to God.

We also have a St Vincent de Paul basket in the foyer for those who would like to give this Lent. For the month of March we are asking for tins of baked beans, tins of soup and packets of biscuits. Thank you for your giving.

Finally, you may like to take part in the "40 Deeds in 40 Days" lenten practices as a family. They are attached as a pdf below.

St Patrick & St Joseph

In March we commemorate two special Saints feast days. On Monday 17th March we acknowledge St Patrick, who ministered Christianity in Ireland during the fifth century. On Wednesday 19th March we celebrate the feast of Saint Joseph. Joseph was a faithful and trusting servant of God who wanted to do what was asked of him. We can learn from Joseph to listen to what God asks of us and become faith-filled servants caring for those in need.

Playgroup

A reminder that playgroup continues each Friday during the school term from 9.30-11.30am in St Columbkille's Parish Centre. Please bring a gold coin donation and any questions the contact number is 0423289320.

Yours in faith

Mrs Joanne Herring