This Advent we have a very good reason to thank God for simplicity and the gift of hope. Throughout the year I have listened to others share how grateful they are for the simple things that we have back in our lives. The simplicity of being able to gather as a school community and share in so many joyous liturgies throughout 2022.

Social Justice

‘Never see a need without doing something about it (1871)’, St Michael’s continued to support those less fortunate by donating money and food through a range of whole school activities. Many of these activities were supported by the Mini Vinnies students from Year 6. As part of the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal, the students fundraiser, where blankets, jumpers, socks were passed onto ‘The Vinnies Van’ who supply food and warm items to those in need. A Christmas hamper and Christmas crafts were prepared by the students for the St Vincent de Paul to distribute to those less fortunate during the festive season.

This year the students continued their connection with global communities by raising money for Caritas and Catholic Mission. To raise money for Caritas students and staff dressed up ``What do I want to be when I grow up” raising $312. The Mini Vinnies made ribbons for the students to wear on Harmony Day and St Patrick’s where students brought in a gold coin to purchase and raise money for the East Coast flood Appeal raising $373.  During Mission week the students raised $250 to support Catholic Mission in building schools, training teachers, providing food and allowing children to have access to an education in Ethiopia by wearing crazy socks.

Sacraments 

Our students continued their faith development through the sacraments of First penance, holy Communion and confirmation. Thank you Father Ken and the St Michael's parish for your support and guidance in the preparations of these special sacraments.

Prayer life

This year the students gathered and celebrated  ‘Buddy Masses’, this has been an opportunity for all grades to participate in the Friday Parish Mass with another grade in the school.

Each Friday one grade spends time with Father Ken talking  about their current  Religious Education units and scripture passages. The class engages with many questions and listening ears. We are so blessed to have Father Ken be so willing to share his wealth of wisdom.

Prayer for the end of the school year 

At the end of this school year, we give thanks to God: For all the teaching and learning that has taken place in our school, both in and out of the classroom, 

For the talents and gifts that have been shared and the challenges that have been faced; For the burdens that have been lifted and the hurts that have been healed; 

For the respect and care that has been given. We give thanks for the friendships that have just begun and for those that have grown. For the faith that has been lived in our daily struggles, 

For the hope that has lifted our hearts on the dark days And for the love that has kept us going. We give thanks for the community that we are, and we ask you Lord – 

Bless our students: may your Spirit inspire them with confidence and a love of learning; 

Bless our families: may your spirit keep them safe through the holidays and leave them with memories to cherish. 

Pour out your love on us that we may return renewed and refreshed to continue our journey together.

Grace and Blessings,

Mrs Steph Brown - Religious Education Coordinator