First Holy Communion Program

Congratulations to the children from our school and parish communities who, this weekend, will celebrate their First Communion. 

We also extend our prayers and best wishes to any children in our school community celebrating their First Communion in other parishes this weekend. We pray that all those celebrating this weekend will continue to gather at the altar to be nourished by the Eucharist so they are well-equipped to be the presence of Jesus in the world.

Parish Sacramental Programs for 2025

A letter from the parish will go home next week regarding the process for enrolling in the Sacramental programs being offered in our parish next year. This letter will be given to children in Years 2 and 5 who have been baptised in the Catholic faith. If you have a child in Years 3 and 4 would like them to receive a note, please let Ms Maloney know.

Mini Vinnies Food Drive - Christmas Hampers for St Vincent de Paul
For many, Christmas is about spending time with family and friends, sharing a meal, and creating meaningful memories.  For families experiencing financial difficulties, Christmas can be a particularly challenging time.

Caritas Australia’s Lebanon Crisis Appeal

You may be familiar with the work of Caritas Australia as we support their humanitarian efforts during the Season of Lent with our Project Compassion boxes. There is currently an appeal being run by Caritas for Lebanon. 
As many families in our school community would know all too well, Lebanon is currently facing a dire crisis, and the need for your support has never been greater. Communities are being devastated by conflict and economic instability, leaving countless families without access to basic needs like food, water, and medical care. Our Caritas Australia partners on the ground are doing everything they can, but they desperately need your help. By supporting the Lebanon Crisis Appeal, you will be helping supply essential items such as food, shelter and medical aid, as well as long-term support to rebuild communities. To donate to this appeal, the link can be found on the Caritas website:  www.caritas.org.au/lebanon

Lebanon Crisis Appeal Prayer

God of all creation,
We hold in our hearts all the pain of the world.
In these anxious days,
we pray especially for the people of Lebanon.
Our country has been deeply enriched by Lebanese culture and faith.
We know that Jesus travelled in Lebanon.
He would have been distressed by the current conflict
between places he knew and loved.

We pray that in our time all violence may cease,
that compassion will reign,
and that all people will recognise their shared dignity
as children of God.
Jesus said, ‘Blessed are those who mourn.’
He also said, ‘Blessed are the peacemakers.’
May our grief be a seed that grows into a tree that shades everyone,
as does the cedar of Lebanon.
God of light, be with us all.  Amen.

Parish Youth Gathering - An Invitation for Students in Year 6 and Above
After the success of our first Parish Youth Gathering, the parish is hosting a second gathering at the Parishes House in Berkeley on Friday 6 December. Arnie Hurdoyal, the Diocesan Youth Coordinator, will be joining us this time. Dinner will be provided at 6 pm. Following dinner, Arnie will lead the group in some games and discussion and the night will end with a short, reflective Taize prayer. Students in Year 6 and above are invited to attend. Parents are also welcome to join us. For catering purposes, please register with Sr Anna (phuonglucop@yahoo.com) or Ms Maloney (maloneymullerm01@dow.catholic.edu.au). 

Children’s Nativity Play

This year there will be a children’s nativity play at 6 pm before the 6.30 pm Christmas Eve Mass at St Mary’s, Berkeley. The parish is looking for children to be involved in the retelling of the Christmas story. There will be an initial meeting/rehearsal later this term and another one closer to Christmas. If your child would like to be involved, please let Ms Maloney or Sr Anna know. 

Ms Marita Maloney
Religion Coordinator