REC News
This week we welcomed newcomers to our community-some small, some grown. Our School Opening Mass was a delightful way to show the ways we live out Jesus’ request-to love one another.
The scripture shared during the celebration spoke of the blessings Aaron and Moses bestowed upon the people of Israel: “May the Lord bless you and take care of you…May the Lord be kind and gracious to you”.
Every day the members of our community demonstrate that they bestow these blessings upon one another and upon those who visit the school. Be it a big smile for the teacher each morning, a shared meal or treat around the staffroom table, a listening ear or a donated cake for a community celebration. These simple things all combine to make our community the caring and kind place where all are welcome to feel that they belong!
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Jesus was not into grand gestures. He was into the simple but important things in life. He stood up for those who were shunned by others. He shared meals with those who were considered the lowest of the low. In some small ways we can ensure that we are following in Jesus’ footsteps by reaching out to those in our community who may feel they are out on the ‘fringes’. It is so easy for each of us to reach out with a simple ‘Hello, how has your day been?’
Both Catherine McCauley and Pope Francis have spoken about the importance of HOSPITALITY. Pope Francis says, ‘Hospitality is one of the works of mercy…I ask that you learn to listen’. (Angelus Address, July 17, 2016). Catherine, in the same vein, )has advised us to ‘try to meet all with peace and ease’. (Letter to Elizabeth Moore, December 9, 1838.
During each Mufti Day Assembly (on the last Friday of each month) a student will be chosen to receive the Catherine McCauley medal. This medal is awarded to students who regularly demonstrate the school ABC-Aspire-to be our best; Believe-that Jesus is with us and Connect with each other, the world and God. During Term One, the students will be encouraged to keep an eye out for other students who they see showing hospitality towards others. In doing so, the students will demonstrate Jesus’ greatest commandment: LOVE ONE ANOTHER.
This week we pray especially for improved health for Pope Francis.
Lord, bring your healing hand upon Francis during this time of need. Amen.
Warm regards,
Loyola Best
Religious Education Coordinator (Acting)
Parish News:
Ash Wednesday Mass: 8.00 a.m. Grenfell 5th March
St Joseph’s Parish Street Stall. Friday 7th March and Saturday 8th March. Volunteers and/or donations (cooking, jams, books and good quality saleable goods) will be gratefully accepted. Contact Deidre Caroll (0403480729)
Parish Lenten Groups- Mondays 3.30p.m. during Lent School
Library. All welcome. Contact Di Franks (63432230 or 0418619740
Next Weeks Readings: 7th Sunday in Ordinary Time 1 Samuel 26:2, 7-9,
12-13, 22-23; 1 Corinthians 15:45-49; Luke 6: 27-38