Catholic Life & Reflection
What students are learning about
Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit several classes. I spent time listening to the students to see what they have learnt about the 7 sacred species that are part of our focus this year 'God In All Things'. I was thrilled to have songs sung (in Hebrew!), artworks shared and questions asked. I was able to visit Years 1, 2, 5 and 6. Year 3 will begin their reflection now that they have finished their Communion preparation. Next week I will visit Kindergarten and Year 4.
My aim for this theme has always been to help students to understand the connection that Jesus has to his Jewish faith. As a Jewish man Jesus understood the significance of the 7 Sacred Species of Israel. The gospel writers also knew they were mostly writing for Jewish audiences and so highlighted the use of the sacred species to instruct and remind them of God’s promises.
What teachers have been learning about
As Rebekah Brown has been mentioning in the newsletter recently, a focus for our school has been how students learn best and ways in which we can support them to convert short term memory into long term memory.
Teachers have been experimenting with this during Religious Education lessons. I created a set of slides for each grade with information related to what we want students to know and understand about the 7 Sacred Species. They have been reviewing these regularly.
You might like to have a look at the Year 3 to 6 reviews by clicking on the Seven Sacred Species link below.
Catholic Life and Reflection
Yesterday I was blessed to be able to attend First Communion. It was lovely to reflect during the liturgy. It brought great comfort. In his Homily, Fr Kimi reminded us that we don’t have to be perfect or even feel worthy to receive the Eucharist as it is in receiving that we are healed and strengthened. As always, a simple and clear message that the love of God is above all else.
The students felt God's love last night. As they nervously waited for their turn, reminding each other which hand goes on top, they were excited. Although too young to understand the full expanse of what was happening (do any of us really?) they knew enough to know that they were about to experience something special.
Mathew 14:20 And all ate and were filled...
Please continue to pray for all of our students who are receiving the Sacrament for the first time and for those who support them in their journey.
