Catholic Life and Reflection
What students are learning about
In Year 4 this week we have been learning how to find scripture in the bible. Every time I teach this lesson the students are always highly engaged. They love working out where to find things and are often surprised at how many stories they know.
Learning how to read the bible is an important skill. I see it as an essential part of the Catalyst goal “Every child is competent reader.”
Monday night was the parent formation night for Penance. I always enjoy meeting a new group of parents who are continuing the sacramental journey with their children. Marian England prepares so carefully for these sessions. Each time I walk away with a new insight into my own faith.
She began with the baptism of Jesus by John in the river Jordan. Matthew 3:13-17 is a beautiful scripture that I have read many times before.
What really moved me was that this was the beginning of his ministry. Before this he was a good Jewish man, living his life as instructed by the law. After his baptism he understood who he was and the mission that God had planned.
After this experience he went into the desert for 40 days to discern what had happened and what to do next. I had never really thought about that before. He had an encounter with God that changed him. He knew, with clarity, what was being asked of him. He just had to work out how.
There are desert times in all our lives. How? How do we manage our new work schedule? How do I get my teenager out of bed on time? How do I sustain myself in this busy life?
Some desert times are small, others require more thought. Knowing that Jesus in all his humanness experienced times of worry, temptation and doubt is a comforting thought. He listened and trusted in His heavenly Father.
This week try to find some time to listen to what God is asking of you.
Psalm 46:10
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition
10 “Be still, and know that I am God!
I am exalted among the nations,
I am exalted in the earth.”
God bless,
Stephanie Stewart
Religous Education Coordinator
Thank you from Vinnies
'Our conference had a wonderful response to our Christmas appeal and we were able to deliver 55 hampers to families and gifts to 64 children in the community.
We are always grateful for the food donations St Johns Primary School generously provides towards the parish hampers each year.
Once again please pass on our thanks to the students and staff of St John's Primary for all their support. We know for a fact that those 55 families are all very grateful for this little extra joy and happiness that the wider community shows to them at this time of the year.'