NAIDOC MASS

On Friday the 26^th of July, a group of staff and students from St Joseph’s attended the NAIDOC Regional Schools Mass in Young at St Mary’s Catholic Church. Hosted by Hennessy Catholic College, staff and students from other Catholic schools including Young, West Wyalong, and Cootamundra, as well as representatives from Catholic Education Canberra-Goulburn, were also in attendance. The theme was ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’. This theme honours the strength and vitality of First Nations culture. Upon arrival, Aunty Enid and Brody performed a smoking ceremony for everyone to pass through. Along with students from the other schools involved, our students processed into the Mass with items of cultural significance, and led the readings and Prayers of the Faithful. Archdiocese NAIDOC Awards were then presented for leadership, promotion of culture, sporting and academic achievement. Afterwards, everyone came together to enjoy a delicious sausage sizzle lunch. Thank you to the staff and students at Hennessy Catholic College for hosting this special NAIDOC Mass. A very special thanks also to Father Jiss and Deacon Mark for presiding over the Mass.

Danielle McFarlane

Religious Education Coordinator