This week we keep in our prayers: 

• To rise to the call of Pope Francis and commit to our call by “stretching forth our hand to the poor” Let us open our eyes and hands to those in need; 
• That we continue the path of reconciliation with our First Nations peoples. That this road be filled with one of dialogue and respect 
• As the season of Advent approaches, let us contemplate the wonderful opportunities the season will bring.  

Sunday’s Gospel- 33rd  Sunday in Ordinary Time.  

Please find shared in this week’s newsletter: the Sunday prayer at home which has some wonderful resources to unpack this week’s readings in a family friendly way.    

This week’s gospel reading is another parable which is the second of the last three that Jesus tells. The important message is not about the end of time but of how we as his disciples should live while we wait. The word “talent” in the parable is not a gift, but a large some of money, a life’s fortune. The slave who goes out and utilises their talent is rewarded for their enterprise.  The question raised is about what is Jesus trying to teach each of us about the abilities we have been given? God has given us our talents, but we need to be willing to use our abilities. How can we use our abilities to help others? What can we do this week with our talents to bring joy to others or help someone in need? 

Wonders of Living Program 

This week, we will be having our annual Wonders of Living Program for students in Years 1 to 6. A Parent Slip has been sent home last week with more details about the program.  Due to COVID regulations could you please express your interest in attending via the Parent Slip.  

Natural Fertility Services Cairns will return to our school on  Tuesday 17th November, 2020 to present a Personal Development Program based on the “Wonder of Living” series.  NFS is a Catholic Diocesan Service and has been working in the area of age appropriate sexuality and relationship education for over twenty years from Tully to Thursday Island.  Their sexualities and relationships education school   program extends from Year 1 to Year 12. The program is values-based and family-orientated and has the full support of Bishop James Foley. 

The accredited Family Life Educators engage the students at an age appropriate level. All education is aimed at supporting parents and the education that happens within the family. Please feel free to contact the school should you wish to know more information about the program.   

Semester Two Academic Reports 

Teachers are in the final stages of report writing for this Semester. Student Academic Reports will be available for download via the Parent Portal next week.   

May St Joseph smile on you,  

Meg Newell 

APRE/CST