I would like to ask you all to see a ray of hope as well in the eyes and hearts of refugees and of those who have been forcibly displaced. A hope that is expressed in expectations for the future, in the desire for friendship, in the wish to participate in the host society also through learning the language, access to employment and the education of children. I admire the courage of those who hope to be able gradually to resume a normal life, waiting for joy and love to return to brighten their existence. We can all and must nourish this hope! Pope Francis

This Week Let us include in our prayers…..

• Those who suffer from systemic racism. For those in Australia, the Americas, Europe and all countries where people are judged on the colour of their skin. We stand peacefully and in solidarity with those who have lost loved ones and pray for healing for those who continue to suffer as a result of prejudice and racism.
• Leaders in our community and our world; during this turbulent time, may they listen deeply to those who are hurting and respond in love.
• The gift of reconciliation. We pray for the courage to be able to speak our truths with caring and open hearts. Help us celebrate the gifts that each bring to our community and encourage us to look out and up with hope and confidence.
• We pray for refugees all over the world who find themselves displaced from their home due to disaster, war or persecution. May they find the strength, courage and safety in a new home.

World Refugee Day

This is an important day that we as Catholic's acknowledge and pray for those people who have been forced to flee their home for their own safety due to war, unrest, disaster or famine. We pray for these people that they may find peace and comfort in a new land to call home.

Many may not be aware but there are numerous references to refugees in the Bible. The New Testament begins with Matthew’s story of Joseph being told by the angel to take his young family and escape to Egypt. So Joseph did, he packed up his young wife Mary, and newborn son, Jesus because the jealous King Herod wanted to kill the infant. Jesus himself lived as a refugee because his own land was not safe.

Year 6 Students being the hands of Jesus

Our Year 6 students in their Religious Education lessons have been learning about the Spiritual and Corporal works of Mercy, such examples are the Corporal Works of Mercy, to feed the hungry and to shelter the homeless. There are numerous ways we as Catholics can carry out these works, but one in particular is a call to action. The students are learning about the power of a letter, through organisations such as St Vincent De Paul, who work tirelessly to care for people in need. This is one way that we can still be the hands of Jesus in our everyday lives.

Curriculum News

Semester One Student Academic Reports

Parents will be able to access their child’s students academic report via the parent portal in Week 1 of Term 3.

May St Joseph smile on you,

Meg Newell