Dear Parents and Caregivers
Religious Literacy Assessment Tool (ReLAT)
On Thursday 19 August our Year 4 students responded to a Religious Assessment involving 35 multiple choice questions. The questions are designed designed to capture students general religious knowledge of themes such as the life of Jesus, liturgical seasons, prayer and social justice. Over the coming Term we will review the data this assessment presents.
Masses
On Thursday 19 August, our Year 4 classes gathered for their ‘A World for Everyone’ Mass. The Mass reflected both classes focus on the Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato si’ and our combined responsibility for ‘our common home.’ The following day, Friday 20 August, our Year 1 classes gathered for a Liturgy of the Word surrounded by artworks reflecting the many things for which our children are thankful to God.
Then today, Friday 27 August, we were happy to be joined by Fr Paul for our Reception Liturgy of the Word celebrating St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, but saddened by the realisation that this would be Fr Paul’s final celebration with our staff and students. Following the Liturgy, Fr Paul praised our Reception’s for their reverent participation and joyful singing.
Fr Paul has been a much-loved member of our parish and school community since 2010 and although he will be truly missed, he leaves us all with many wonderful memories. Thank you Fr Paul!
Made in the Image of God (MITIOG)
At the beginning of the Term a letter was distributed for every child outlining the respective year level draft MITIOG Curriculum content. Over the coming weeks classes will be covering the MITIOG Curriculum associated with each year level. If you have any questions, please forward an email to mharrison@sjms.catholic.edu.au titled MITIOG.
Sacrament of Reconciliation
Last night on Tuesday 24 August, twenty of our Year 3 to Year 5 students received the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time. Ben, Taylor, Corey, Samuel, Alice, Charlotte, Jacob, Vincent, Simon, Asha, Ian, Estelle, Lorella, Kalani, Ava, Oliver, Olive, Christian, Sienna, Jack and Evie offered their first confession(s) and opened their hearts to God’s unconditional love and forgiveness. We thank the Parish Faith Faith Team; Fr Eka, Fr Stan, Fr Paul, Kate and Emma for their ongoing support and communication with our families throughout Term 3 and extend our congratulations to al forty-five recipients from the parish.
Sacrament of First Holy Communion
For the students who have recently received the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Faith formation Teams invites candidates and their families to the first meeting for First Holy Communion on Tuesday 31 August in the Parish Hall from 7:00pm. As with Confirmation, this will be the first of two meetings with the second meeting / rehearsal being held on Tuesday 26 October in the Parish Hall and St Ignatius Church.
Due to our Parish Assembly being scheduled for the 7th September, the Sacrament of First Holy Communion will be held on Sunday 31 October in the afternoon (times TBC), depending on number restrictions we may hold 2 services on that day to accommodate guests. On behalf of the parish, we are asking families of candidates to keep this date free and we appreciate your patience until times are announced in the week preceding.
Parish News
Due to current restrictions Fr Paul’s Farewell in the Parish Hall has been cancelled. In its place, Fr Paul spoke on the 28 August at the 6:00pm Saturday Vigil and on Sunday 29 August at the 8:30am, 10:00am and 5:00pm Masses. If you are able, you are most welcome to attend one of these Masses.
Have a wonderful weekend everyone.
Matthew Harrison
Acting APRIM
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