From the APRIM
Dear Families,
Soup Making is Back!
Our much-loved soup-making initiative is returning next week, with our Student Leaders once again rolling up their sleeves in support of the Sister Janet Mead Soup Kitchen.
This time we thought we might mix things up a little and are seeking donations of:
Potatoes
Leeks
Stock (powdered or liquid)
No donation is too big or too small, and every contribution helps us provide warm, nourishing meals for those in need. If you are able to assist, please bring donations to the school office by Tuesday afternoon.
Thank you for your ongoing generosity and support of this important outreach project.
The Transfiguration of Our Lord
Next Thursday, 6 August, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord. This special feast recalls the moment when Jesus took Peter, James and John up a mountain, where His appearance was transformed and His divine glory was revealed to them. The disciples heard God’s voice say,”This is my beloved Son; listen to Him.”
The Transfiguration reminds us that Jesus is truly the Son of God and gives us hope and courage to follow Him, especially during difficult times. It is a powerful reminder that God is always present with us and calls us to listen to Jesus in our daily lives.
As a school community, we will take time to reflect on how we can allow God’s light to shine through our words and actions.
Mary MacKillop Feast Day
On 8 August, we celebrate the Feast of Saint Mary MacKillop, Australia’s first saint and co-founder of the Sisters of Saint Joseph. Mary dedicated her life to educating children, caring for those in need, and encouraging people to place their trust in God, especially during challenging times.
As a Josephite school, this feast day holds special significance for our community. Mary’s values of compassion, courage, service and faith continue to inspire us in the way we learn, pray and care for one another.
While we would normally gather for a whole school Mass, the feast day falls on a Saturday this year. Instead, we will come together on Friday 7 August for a special prayer led by 1/2J at their assembly. Following the assembly, students will spend time with their buddies participating in a Mary MacKillop activity, reflecting on her life and considering how we can follow her example by showing kindness, perseverance and care for others in our everyday lives.
As Mary famously said, “Never see a need without doing something about it.” These words continue to challenge us to be people of action, compassion and hope within our school and wider community.
Prayer to Saint Mary MacKillop
Saint Mary MacKillop,
You trusted God in all things and showed great courage in serving others.
Help us to see the needs around us and respond with kindness, compassion and generosity.
Teach us to be people of faith who never give up when things are difficult.
Guide our school community to follow the example of Jesus as you did, caring for others and working together to make a difference in the world.
We ask for your prayers as we continue to learn, grow and serve.
Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us.
Amen.
The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
On Saturday 15 August, the Church celebrates the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This feast recognises the Church’s belief that Mary was taken body and soul into heaven at the end of her earthly life. It is one of the most important Marian celebrations in the Catholic calendar.
The Assumption is significant because it reminds us of the hope of eternal life and the special place Mary holds in God’s plan of salvation. Mary’s faith, trust and obedience continue to inspire us as disciples of Jesus today. The feast also points us towards the promise that we, too, are called to share in God’s glory.
Families are encouraged to attend Mass and celebrate this important feast day together.
Zones of Regulation
Throughout this year, all classes will continue to use the Zones of Regulation program as part of our commitment to student wellbeing.
The Zones of Regulation helps children recognise, understand and manage their emotions. Students learn that all feelings are okay and are given practical tools and strategies to help them regulate their emotions, build resilience, and respond appropriately in different situations.
By developing emotional awareness and self-regulation skills, students are better equipped to learn, solve problems, build positive relationships and contribute to a calm, respectful and inclusive school environment. We are proud to continue this important work across the school as we support every child to thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
In all things love,
Rachel Baulderstone
APRIM