Sacrament of First Eucharist
On Tuesday evening we hosted our Parish Sacramental Program Parent meeting in the  Sacred Heart Church for families in Year 4 who have been baptised to have the opportunity to receive the sacrament of First Eucharist. Please see below for some important dates for this sacrament. We look forward to supporting these students and their families in coming weeks. If you were interested and unable to attend, please contact Carla Durnan and we can discuss how your child can participate in this special Sacrament. 

NAIDOC Mass
On Friday our Year 6 students and Aboriginal students across the school attended a special NAIDOC Mass for our Southern Regional schools at St Bernard’s Parish Batemans Bay to launch the beginning of our NAIDOC school celebrations. The Mass was attended by members of Catholic Education Canberra Goulburn, Dr Michael Holland, students, staff, parents and family members from our region. 2024 NAIDOC awards were presented to thirteen Aboriginal students and educators by CE representatives Mr Dominic Braybon and Mr Rowan Dollar. The Mass musicians were  our Sacred Heart Parish musicians and students. Five students from St Mary’s received an award at the Mass:

Christian Meditation
At St Mary’s we prioritise Christian meditation as a form of prayer reflection in classrooms. As part of our NAIDOC celebrations we have included ‘Dadirri’ a form of Aboriginal meditative prayer. All classes across the school have participated in this over the course of the week as part of our regular Christian meditation opportunities.

Liturgy for St Mary of the Cross; Mary MacKillop
On Monday 5 August at 1pm, Year 4 students are leading the school in a special liturgy for the Feast of St Mary of the Cross, Mary MacKillop; Australia’s first saint. The students have been researching facts about her life and why she has become a role model for prioritising education and sharing her passion for education in rural areas. You are more than welcome to join us for this liturgy in the Performing Arts Centre if you are available.

Prayers
This week let us keep Mrs Megan Grant and her family in our prayers as her father is unwell, so close to the passing of her mum. 

God, Bring this family peace.
Provide them with your comfort. 
Let them know you tenderly care for each and every one of them
Amen

Grace and blessings on your path.

Mrs Carla Durnan
Religious Education Coordinator (Acting)