RE update
Prep Prayers in Pajamas
A big thank you to Miss Birthisel and Miss Walker for their support and coordination of the "Prep Prayers in Pajamas" event on Wednesday evening. The night was a joyous celebration of our faith, with both the children and families coming together to participate. It was heartwarming to see how happy and respectful the children interact with their beautiful teachers. Miss Walker and Miss Birthisel’s dedication and effort in making this event memorable and meaningful for all of the children has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on their young hearts. Their hard work certainly strengthens our sense of community and faith. I extend my appreciation to all the families who were able to make the Prep Prayers in Pyjamas night. It was a very special evening for the children to learn ways to be closer to God.
A special mention to the incredible recounts that our beautiful Preppies created in the classroom last week. We are most impressed with what capable authors they are becoming.
Spotlight Moment
The seamless connection between school, home, and parish spans a profound distance. Following the Prayers in Pajamas night at school, an incredible young Preppie found solace at home while she diligently completed her Rosary prayers. Talia, your brilliance radiates in Prep! It is these heartwarming moments that fill teachers (and parents) with immense gratitude, realising the huge impact they can have on the lives of children. Let us continue to place our trust in God and strengthen our relationship with the school, parish and wider community. We all have an incredible responsibility as parents and teachers to instil good values and morals in our children.
First Eucharist Presentation and Commitment Mass
What beautiful Masses we had on the weekend of the 15th and 16th of July to present the children who will be receiving the sacrament of the Eucharist for the first time in the coming weeks.
A big thank you to Fr. John, Mrs Lawrence, Mrs Heath, Miss Carlson and the parents who prepared the students so well for the Commitment Mass.
Eucharist Reflection Day
In a momentous journey of spiritual growth and discovery, our Year 4 students have been diligently preparing for a truly sacred occasion—their first reception of the Eucharist. As they approached this pivotal milestone, they embarked on the Reflection Day, an experience we hope has left an impact on their hearts and souls.
Throughout this special day of contemplation and exploration, the children engaged in activities designed to deepen their understanding and reverence for the sacrament. Guided by their exceptional teachers, they embarked on a Scripture study of The Last Supper, an exploration of the meanings embedded in the Eucharist's sacred symbols and a role-play of what to expect on the day/night of their Sacrament of First Eucharist.
I would like to extend a warm and heartfelt thank you to Matilde Chia, Mrs Heath, Miss Carlson and Mrs Lawrence who devoted their time and effort to create such transformative activities. Their unwavering dedication has illuminated the spiritual path for our students, nurturing their understanding and kindling the flame of faith within them.
As we witness our Year 4 students approach the Eucharist for the very first time, we rejoice in the profound significance of this moment. It is not merely a ritual but a sacred milestone—an initiation into a lifelong journey of faith, love, and service. With hearts aglow, our young ones shall continue to reflect on the scriptures and the liturgy, drawing strength and guidance from the divine wisdom they have encountered.
Together, let us celebrate this sacred occasion, knowing that these young children are now forever bound to the essence of the Eucharist—a timeless connection to the love and grace of our Lord. May this experience be a source of transformation, inspiring our students to walk hand in hand with faith and grace throughout their lives.
Congratulations
We congratulate the following students who received the Sacrament of First Holy Communion on the 22nd and 23rd July.
Mac Hickey, Isabel Logan, Reid Hoffmann, Lucca Comito, Hudson Grima, Alana Spencer, Stella Yeates, Matilda Commerford, Levi Joseph, Pia Damasco and Amelia Jackman.
We thank the St. Paul's Parish Sacramental Team, Parish Coordinators and Grade 4 teachers. Our school and parish communities appreciate all of the hard work that was carried out in the preparation for the Sacrament. As we move forward, let us continue to keep all the candidates in our prayers and wish them and their families the very best as they take this important step in their Faith Journey.
Visit from Holy Trinity Parish
On Monday 17th of July, Donrita Reefman and Marjorie Brady from the Holy Trinity Parish, visited the school to collect the meals that students cooked. They expressed their gratitude to the Grade 6 Social Justice Leaders for their remarkable efforts.
During their visit, Donrita and Marjorie engaged in a conversation with the leaders, emphasising the Christian belief in the importance of caring for others, both within and outside the church. They highlighted various ways in which the community demonstrates this care, ranging from studying and reflecting upon biblical teachings to organising community events and commemorating religious festivals (such as Holy Week, Easter Feast days) throughout the year. This cooking initiative serves as an excellent example of fostering a strong relationship between the parish and the school.
Holy Trinity extends their heartfelt appreciation to everyone involved - the students, parents, and teachers.
If you have any suggestions or would like to be involved in any meaningful initiatives, please contact rnolan@spbentleigh.catholic.edu.au
Rebecca Nolan
Religious Education Leader