Catholic Life and Reflection
What Students Are Learning About
On Tuesday, Years 3 and 6 participated in a Sacrament reflection day. Mr Lenarcic and eight Year 10 students from St. Francis Xavier College came to assist. The Year 10 students acted as role models, leading activities in small groups.
The focus for the Communion reflection was ‘Breakfast on the Beach with Jesus’ (John 21:1-13). Students received rosary beads and were led through a decade of the Rosary, ‘Read With a Pencil’ to study the Scripture, reflected on different artworks depicting the Gospel story, shared a meal, and participated in an ‘Imaginative Prayer’ experience.
The focus for the Confirmation reflection was ‘The Fruit of the Spirit’ (Galatians 5:22-23). The students participated in a number of activities including ‘Read With a Pencil’ to study the Scripture, ‘Discussion cards’ matching scenarios to the Fruit of the Spirit being depicted, the 4 steps towards Canonization, a reflection on how their chosen saint lived their Catholic faith, and how they will show their Catholic faith. They also shared a meal. Students in both year levels were engaged and reflected thoughtfully throughout the sessions.
On Thursday, 3M and Mrs Osborne-Goldsbrough celebrated Mass with Fr Chung. It was a celebration of the Feast of the Most Holy Name of Mary. The Gospel reading was the visitation of Mary to Elizabeth, Luke 1:39-45. Mrs O-G describes the Gospel reading as ‘always a beautiful one, about the miracle of life’.
What Teachers Are Learning About
Teachers are always learning, especially from other teachers, our peers. We are blessed to have a dedicated teaching staff nurturing the students of St John’s. Our teachers have many gifts, e.g., Mrs Love is known for loving all things Science, Mr Spencer - Sport, Mrs Hudson - Digital Technology, Mrs Fraser - Literacy, Ms Mac - the Performing Arts, Mrs May - Indigenous perspectives, etc., I could go on.
Mrs Louise Osborne-Goldsbrough (Mrs O-G) is in the spotlight this week. Louise has made an impact by contributing her gifts to the Catholic life of St John’s. She inspires her peers in Religious Education, sharing her knowledge, fresh resources (e.g. universalis.com), thoughtful reflections and always offering to help out wherever needed. Louise is a true example of ‘being on earth the heart of God.’ Thank you Louise, your efforts and contributions are noticed and appreciated!
Catholic Life and Reflection
On Tuesday, I had the opportunity to celebrate and participate in both the Communion and Confirmation Sacrament Reflections with Year 3 and Year 6 . This particular prayer from the Confirmation reflection resonated within me, Holy Spirit, I often feel overwhelmed by life’s challenges. Please grant me Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Help me to trust in You and find rest in Your presence.
After planning and preparing the big day, I surprisingly felt calm and had trust that whatever was going to happen throughout the course of the day would happen, God's plan. This calmness came from remembering to put trust in the Holy Spirit and know that He is always with me. I wasn’t on my own!
May the Sacred heart of Jesus be everywhere loved… Forever!
Rebecca Stevenson
Religious Education Coordinator