Sunday's Gospel Reading Reflection

This week was from the Gospel of John- Jesus said, “My sheep listen to my voice. I know them and they follow me. I have given them life forever and they will never be lost."

Reflection for this week- 

The image of God as a shepherd was a powerful one for the Jewish people. The shepherd in Jesus’ time knew each sheep and when the sheep needed to be moved, he would lead them in front and they would follow. The shepherd would even sleep with them to protect them during the night. This week our family might like to draw and cut out the good shepherd and some sheep and give each one the name of a family member.

Trustworthiness is a quality in someone we can depend on to be honest, work hard and keep our secrets. Who are your friends who are trustworthy?

We know we can trust Jesus, because like the lost sheep, He always gathers His sheep and as the Good Shepherd, Jesus never abandons us. Sometimes we are not always dependable, as we should be. This week practise being trustworthy each day so others can rely on you.

Anzac Day Commemoration

Last Tuesday 29th April our school community commemorated Anzac Day on Balawarri. Thank you to our Year 3 staff and students who read so wonderfully, and to all for participating so reverently. I know a number of students, quite young, turned up at dawn on Anzac morning to commemorate this significant day, so thank you to their parents/families.

Our community was also able to reflect on the wonderful life of Pope Francis, who has now joined our Lord in heaven. We pray that the Holy Spirit descends upon the cardinals within the conclave, as they prayerfully discern our next Pope.

Mothers Day Celebrations

Today we were blessed as a community to celebrate Mother’s Day. It was a meaningful occasion as we prayed with the help of our Year 6 Faith team, listened to students responses, and were entertained by Kinder's song. Thank you to our Kindergarten staff who helped with our liturgy. We hope you appreciate the small gift, and had a wonderful picnic lunch with your families. We also hope that you all have a wonderful day on Sunday spent with loved ones. Enjoy being spoilt.

Laudato Si' Week 2025- RAISING HOPE

Join the global Catholic community in celebrating Laudato Si’ Week, marking the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’ which Pope Francis signed on the day of Pentecost, 24 May, 2015.

This special week commemorates Pope Francis' landmark encyclical on climate change and care for our common home—rooted in centuries of Church teaching on creation. With this year’s theme "Raising Hope", we come together in faith and action, continuing the legacy of Pope Francis and renewing our commitment to ecological justice and a sustainable future for all.

Please note the global celebration is 24–31 May, but in Australia, many choose to acknowledge Laudato Si’ Week from 16–24 May, so as not to clash with Reconciliation Week.

The following resources may be of interest to you in marking Laudato Si’ Week 

• Laudato Si’ Movement Laudato Si’ Week 2025
• Catholic Earthcare Caritas Australia Laudato Si' Week 2025 Resources
• Liturgy for Celebrating Laudato Si’ Week 2025 Word doc and PDF doc.
• Laudato Si’ Week Bookmark and Daily Reflection Posts
• Pope Francis’ Ecological Legacy.

“Let us sing as we go.
May our struggles and our concern for this planet never take away the joy of our hope.”
Laudato Si’ n244