Dear Families,

First Holy Communion
This Saturday at 5.00pm, St Mary’s students Mackenzie H, Matilda W, Oliver A, Samuel H, Samuel W, Madelyn M, Anthony M, Lily M and Oliver A will be making their First Holy Communion (Eucharist) at Sacred Heart Church. Our Catechism teaches that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. When we receive the Lord in the Eucharist, it is an act of thanksgiving to God. Pope Francis refers to the Eucharist as a gift, and reminds us about how important it is to our faith journey. When speaking to a group of children in Italy, Pope Francis said to them, “You will make your First Communion, always remember that day your whole life: the first day that Jesus came to us. He comes, makes himself one with us, makes himself our food, our nourishment to give us strength.”

As we reflect on these words, we can give thanks to Fr. George, Mr. Bateman, Mrs. Kenny, and friends and family of the children who have helped prepare them for First Holy Communion. We especially thank their parents who are the primary educators of the children in the ways of the faith.

All are welcome to join us at 5.00pm on Saturday 9 September at Sacred Heart Church as we celebrate mass and First Holy Communion.

Prayer at a child’s First Communion
Lord Jesus Christ, bless the children coming forward to receive
Holy Communion for the first time. 

May this day be the step toward a life-long love of the Eucharist.

Give them a hunger for this sacred food so that they turn to you for comfort, guidance, and wisdom as they grow into full discipleship.

Thank you for their innocence and goodness.

May their hands, extended in anticipation of your body and blood,
inspire all of us to cherish this sacred Sacrament.  Amen.

Year 4 Sacramental Retreat
On Wednesday last week the students in Year 4 enjoyed a fun and informative day at Carroll College. The students participated in a range of activities related to the Eucharist. This Sacramental retreat was superbly led by the Year 9 Carroll College Youth Ministry students. We thank Mrs. Belle Barling and Mrs. Erica Drewson for organising such a great day.

Fathers’ Day Liturgy
Last Friday Year 2 hosted a liturgy to celebrate our wonderful fathers and father-figures. During the liturgy, Year 2 reverently retold the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). It was wonderful to see so many dads in attendance. Thank you Year 2 and Mrs. Durnan for a very special liturgy.