From the APRIM
Dear Families,
Have you ever felt like nobody was there?
Have you ever felt forgotten in the middle of nowhere?
Have you ever felt like you could disappear?
Like you could fall, and no one would hear?
These lyrics from the musical called, “Dear Evan Hansen” came on in my car last Friday. I had just been putting up the sign on the car park fence for ‘Safeguarding Sunday’. They were particularly fitting as we remember how we need to protect our young children, teenagers and the vulnerable. We don’t want people to feel as if they have been forgotten and our parish has been working very hard to ensure that they have done everything in our power to safeguard our children. They have conducted Volunteer Induction sessions which parishioners have attended. People’s attendance signifies their willingness to put their faith into action, acknowledging that every person encountered in their ministry, is created in the image of God. We acknowledge our responsibility to continue to uphold the inherent dignity of each individual as we continue God’s mission.
It is also means safeguarding others in a practical way. Catholic Charities continues to care for those who are vulnerable or need extra support and is summed up in the remaining lyrics from the song:
Well, let that lonely feeling wash away
Maybe there’s a reason to believe you’ll be okay
‘Cause when you don’t feel strong enough to stand
You can reach, reach out your hand
And oh, someone will come running
And I know, they’ll take you home
Even when the dark comes crashing through
When you need a friend to carry you
And when you’re broken on the ground
You will be found
So let the sun come streaming in
‘Cause you’ll reach up and you’ll rise again
Lift your head and look around
You will be found
Are you able to reach out your hand, are you able to come running or help the sun come streaming in for those who are finding even sunny days, dark? Please give what you can.
Sacrament Program
We are hoping to recommence this program in Term 4. We are asking all parents who are thinking of having their children participate in the program over the next few years to please complete a survey https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/GVCG32C We want to hear from you!
We are exploring the idea of having a group for older students (aged 12-17) so that we can assist those who may have missed out on completing the Sacraments of Initiation at primary school. These sessions will be conducted separately and tailored for older students, led by one of our young parishioners. Please pass on the information to anyone who could benefit.
We have had a busy term and I look forward to seeing the grandparents and special friends on the last day of term. How fortunate we are, to be able to hold our event.
Blessings to you all,
Sharyn Black
Assistant Principal Religious Identity and Mission