I never shy away from the idea that faith is a journey. Sometimes that means the path is really clear and easy to commit to and at other times not so much. Like Belle's father Maurice in Disney’s Beauty and Beast, the choice can be challenging.  See this video clip for context ?

This morning, for reasons unknown, my 20 year old son was up at 6am. He let the dog out, fed him and then sat with a coffee on the back verandah. When he realised we were awake he jumped into our bed with the dog, then the 13 year old joined us.  While they were rough-housing, literally on top of me, I thanked God. An honest and heartfelt prayer within one of those glorious parenting moments when the stars align. I wasn’t just grateful but I offered the moment to God; a thank you for the joys in the tough road that can be parenting.

I often reflect that Mary must have had her moments when Jesus was little; a refugee in an unknown land with a huge responsibility to raise the Son of God with compassion and patience. All I know is that she must have had these moments too, her son playing at her feet, laughing, living his life and her, offering her gratitude to God for the gift of her child.

This parenting gig can be a hard job. Take some joy in the small moments when you can.

What Students are Learning About

Year 4 have been learning about Marian Apparitions (traditional appearances of Mary to people). Today a few of my students came to me with a “blind bag”.  They had made one to test me on different Marian Apparitions. (I did ok, according to them!)

I hadn’t asked them too, but they found the topic fascinating.  It is a wonderful tradition of our Church to honor Mary as we do. 

What Staff are Learning About

This week staff participated in a faith formation staff meeting. We spent time in the outdoors walking with a partner. Staff walked through our new playground space reflecting on the Emmaus story and its connection to the liturgy. Each time we attend Mass, we walk a path of faith, from confusion to hope.

 

 

God bless,

Stephanie Stewart