Confirmation

Last night we celebrated the first of our Confirmation liturgies with a number of our Year 6 students, their sponsors and their families. Although it was a little different with no supper being held, it still was a lovely evening to remind these students about the importance of the gifts of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Thank you to all those involved with the sacrament, big or small, and for everyone’s prayers during this time. A special thanks to Father Patrick for his support, Lisa Bates from the Bulli Parish for her amazing organisation and the parents/carers/grandparents who have worked alongside these students and allowed their faith to grow. Our second celebration is being held tonight.

Remembrance Day

On Tuesday 11 November our school community will pause to acknowledge and commemorate Remembrance Day. On this day we especially remember those who have died in war, and to pray for attacks and cruelty throughout the world. We will continue to pray for peace and to think about what we are doing as individuals, as a community and as a country to bring God’s peace into the world. 

First Holy Communion

Booklets will need to be returned by Wednesday 18 November. On this day the candidates will take part in Reconciliation, in the morning session, and then a practise in the hall to follow recess. Thank you to those families who have already returned their workbooks and to all families for the commitment to this Sacrament via online learning.

On Friday 20 November the staff of St Columbkille’s will engage in a spirituality day focused on Gratitude- “For all things give thanks.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). The staff are very much looking forward to this time of silence, solitude and stillness.

Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

On Saturday 21 November we commemorate the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. When Mary was asked to be the mother of the Saviour, she was completely free to accept or reject the offer. Her response, “Let it be done to me,” was a great act of faith. Because she did not understand what was happening, she must have known that there would be difficulties ahead.

She replied yes to the angel's announcement and agreed to become the mother of Jesus, and the Church has declared Mary to be the Mother of God. Because she was the first to say yes to the Messiah, the Church has declared her to be the Mother of the Church.

The feast of the presentation of Mary dates back to the 6th century in the East and the 15th century in the West. It is based on an ancient tradition that says Mary was taken to the temple in Jerusalem when she was 3-years-old and dedicated to God. What we celebrate on this day is the fact that God chose to dwell in Mary in a very special way. In response, Mary placed her whole self at the service of God. Every moment since your Baptism, God invites you to be open to his grace and dedicate yourself to him, as Mary did.

NAIDOC Week

Usually NAIDOC Week is held nationally during July but due to COVID-19 celebrations were moved to Sunday 8 November through to Sunday 15 November.

This year's NAIDOC 2020 theme is Always Was, Always Will Be. 

This theme recognises that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years. 

During NAIDOC, we remember in our thoughts and prayers the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of our country and celebrate their rich cultures and inspiring contributions to Australia.