Following the deeply pastoral legacy of Pope Francis, our newly elected Pope Leo XIV now takes up the call to shepherd the people of God. His election brings with it both hope and anticipation as we listen for new ways the Holy Spirit will guide our Church under his leadership.

Born in Chicago in 1955, Pope Leo XIV is the first American and the first Augustinian to lead the Catholic Church. His extensive missionary work in Peru and leadership roles within the Church reflect a deep commitment to service and pastoral care.

Pope Leo XIV's election marks a historic moment - a unique blend of American roots and global experience. His early words and actions suggest a continuation of Pope Francis's emphasis on humility, social justice, and outreach to the marginalised. In his first address, he called for global peace and highlighted the importance of unity within the Church.

From the balcony of St Peter's, Pope Leo reminded us: "The Risen Christ walks with us still, not as a distant figure of history, but as the living presence that animates our communities and inspires our mission." As “Pilgrams of Hope’, may we take inspiration from both Pope Francis’s legacy and Pope Leo XIV’s fresh call — to bring hope where there is fear, unity where there is division, and joy where there is despair.

Let’s keep Pope Leo XIV in our prayers as he embarks on this significant journey, guiding the Church with compassion, wisdom, and a steadfast commitment to the Gospel.

A Prayer for Pope Leo XIV

Risen Lord,

You are the Good Shepherd who never leaves your flock untended.

We give thanks for the election of Pope Leo XIV. Bless him with courage, compassion, and clarity of vision.

May he lead with love, serve with humility, and speak with boldness the truth of the Gospel.

Guide your Church in this new season, that we may reflect your light in the world.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

ANZAC Ceremony

Thank you to the Year 2 students, their teachers and our honoured guests Squadron Leader Timothy Hudson and Colonel Casey Guidolin for the outstanding ANZAC Liturgy on Friday May 9. The songs, the laying of the wreaths, our guests that addressed the school and the reverent behaviour of our students was truly something to behold especially as the sun beamed through the big trees during the Last Post. Thank you to the parents that came along to share and support our Year 2 students.

Working Bee – Saturday 17^th

A big thank you to everyone that has volunteered their time to help out at our Community Council SJA Working Bee on Saturday 17 May. Thank you to Ben Muller for organising the event and to Sean Fox for providing the big wheels this move the mulch and sand around to have it ready for spreading on Saturday morning. Our large and lush grounds will be more manageable with the injection of some TLC. If you have a spare hour or 2 on Saturday morning, please pop down to the school and give a hand.

Reconciliation Day Public Holiday

On Monday 2 June (Week 6), the ACT will observe Reconciliation Day with a public holiday. As such, all schools in the ACT, including SJA, will be closed.

Blessings to all families.

Jo Reed