Religious Education News
World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation and The Season of Creation
Last week, we acknowledged the beginning of the Season of Creation, which runs from 1 September to 4 October and the feast of St Francis of Assisi. Throughout September, we will begin each day with a prayer, inviting us to reflect on and celebrate this sacred time dedicated to caring for God’s creation.
Sacraments - Congratulations
Over the past few weeks, three of our Year 3 students have taken significant steps in their faith journey. We warmly congratulate Liliana and Mia on receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the very first time. This sacrament is a profound and transformative moment, offering them the opportunity to encounter God's boundless mercy and forgiveness.
We also extend our congratulations to Nicholas, who received his First Holy Communion. This milestone is a sacred occasion where he received the Body and Blood of Jesus for the first time, deepening his relationship with Christ.
All three students have opened their hearts to God's grace, which strengthens them and reminds them of His unconditional love. We are incredibly proud of their commitment to their faith and pray that this special time marks the beginning of a lifelong journey with God, filled with peace, joy, and grace.
Feast Day Celebrations for St Francis of Assisi
As St Francis of Assisi’s feast day falls during the school holidays, our school community will celebrate this special occasion in Week 10, on Thursday, 25 September.
The day will begin with a Votive Mass for St Francis of Assisi, celebrated by Fr Mark at 9.00 am. Following the Mass, we will gather in the hall for our weekly awards assembly. Families and friends are warmly invited to join us for both of these events as we honour St Francis together.
For the remainder of the school day, students will participate in engaging learning experiences focused on the life and teachings of St Francis, deepening their understanding of his example of faith, humility, and care for creation.
Our School Values
At St Francis of Assisi, we value forgiveness because Jesus taught us that this leads to healing and peace in our relationships with God and others. At our Principal and Values Award Assembly tomorrow, the value award for forgiveness will be presented to one student from each class.
St Carlo Acutis and St Giorgio Frassati
Last Sunday, Pope Leo XIV solemnly declared Blessed Carlo Acutis and Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati as saints of the Church. Their canonisation invites us to celebrate the two young men whose lives, though separated by time and circumstance, remain a radiant witness to the power of faith.
Carlo Acutis (1991–2006), a teenager of our time devoted to the Holy Eucharist, used his gifts in technology to spread the Gospel and highlight the beauty of Eucharistic miracles. His life reminds us that holiness is possible in the midst of contemporary life.
Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901–1925), often called the “Man of the Beatitudes,” was a young Italian layman known for his love of the poor, his dedication to justice, and his joyful spirit. He showed that authentic discipleship is lived out in service, prayer, and courage.
Let us give thanks for the gift of these new saints and ask through their intercession that we, too, may live with courage, hope, and joy as faithful disciples of Christ.
This week, each child received a prayer card dedicated to the life of St Carlo Acutis.
Staff Spirituality Day
As families and students would be aware, the last day for students this term is Thursday 25 September. On Friday, 26 September, staff will gather at Kiama for a Staff Spirituality Day. During the day, staff will reflect on and journey through The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-10). This passage contains Jesus’ teachings on the attitudes and characteristics that lead to spiritual and eternal blessings, such as being poor in spirit, merciful, and pure in heart. This special day offers staff the opportunity to deepen their faith and come together in prayerful reflection, guided by the wisdom of these teachings.
Mr Rich Gilmore
Acting Religious Education Coordinator