Shrove Tuesday

Shrove Tuesday, the day before Lent starts, was recognised at school by eating pancakes!

In times gone by, there was an old English custom of using up all the fattening ingredients in the house before Lent, so that people were ready to fast during Lent. The fattening ingredients that most people had in their houses in those days were eggs and milk. A recipe to use up these ingredients was to combine them with some flour and make pancakes.

Thanks to our parent helpers who generously contributed and assisted in making the pancakes for all students to enjoy and appreciate. By all accounts, they were delicious! A huge “thanks” must go especially to Bec Waples, Belinda Mawhinney and Susie McLelland.

Ash Wednesday

Yesterday we began the season of Lent by attending an Ash Wednesday prayer service as a whole school. During the service we reflected on things that we could be doing during Lent such as praying and doing good things for others. As adults, we too, can take these ideas on board as we journey through Lent.

Lent gives us the opportunity to retreat from some of the things that distract us. Engaging in activities that enhance our focus helps us to embrace the gift of Lent. Here are some activities to consider…

1. Pray more
2. Read scripture
3. Journey through the Stations of the Cross
4. Donate clothing for someone in need
5. Give up certain treats and donate food for people in need
6. Donate money to a different charity each week

Most of these activities are also doable for children ages five years and up (with the assistance of a parent). The best way to introduce younger children to Lenten practices is for them to see adults and older kids in the family practicing them; use their natural curiosity and desire to be “grown up” as a springboard for talking about what you are doing, and why.

Adapted from: Activities to Try During Lent - Beliefnet

Lenten Prayer

God of all generations,

We thank you for those who have gone before us,

especially those who have cared for your earth

and who inspire us to help respect your creation and contribute to its healing.

We thank you for those with whom we share our lives today,

especially those who work for justice and peace.

May we welcome the opportunity that Lent brings to walk more closely with you,

especially through fasting, almsgiving and prayer.

We thank you for the challenge of the future.

May the cross of Jesus remind us that only love finds a way forward.

As we work with big hearts, may we join with Mary in her hope

that from now on all generations will experience the great things you will do through us.

 

We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Amen.

 

Prayer source: Prayer (PPT) (caritas.org.au)

Parish News

Sunday 8 am Mass

St Joseph’s Church, Grenfell

Please note that a Mass will be held on the second and fourth Sundays each month. There is a Celebration of the Word with Holy Communion, not a Mass, on the first and third Sundays of each month. Everyone is welcome to attend!

 

The Parish would love to welcome more children to be involved in Mass on weekends. There are many opportunities for involvement, including doing the readings. If your child can participate in any way, please let me know.

 

Yours in Faith,

 

Danielle McFarlane

Religious Education Coordinator