SACRAMENT OF FIRST EUCHARIST
A very big congratulations to Willa McL, Matilda, P, Aria T, Ethan T, Nicholas A and Beau McD who last Sunday received the Eucharist for the first time. The children, their families, staff and parishioners gathered for a lovely Mass to celebrate this very special and meaningful sacrament with the children. We then joined together in the gardens after Mass for a delicious cake and morning tea. Thank you to Mrs Durnan for her preparation with the children, Mrs Croese, the guitarists and choir for the beautiful music, the parishioners and families for morning tea and Fr George for celebrating the Mass. We would especially like to say a big thank you to the students who came along to support their peers, play guitar or join the choir - what wonderful community we have. 

STAFF SPIRITUALITY DAY 

“Silence, Stillness and Service”

Today the staff at St Mary’s participated in a Spirituality Professional Development day centred around the themes of finding silence, seeking stillness, and flourishing in service. This day is designed as an intentional space for deep personal and communal reflection, where staff can withdraw from the busy demands of daily school life and focus on nurturing their spiritual well-being. The PD will focus on forming the heart through practices characterised by prayerfulness, mindfulness, and a commitment to inner peace. It will be a lovely way to finish off a busy and productive term.

CATHOLIC MISSION MARKET MORNING 
On Friday 18 October (Term 4, Week One) we will be hosting our Annual Mission Market Morning after Friday Mass. This is an opportunity for our school community to raise money for Catholic Missions to assist those less fortunate than ourselves. On the day each year level will be hosting a stall to sell items, as well as our Year 6 students demonstrating authentic leadership skills running their own stalls in small groups. 

HOLIDAY PRAYER FOR ST MARY’S CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

Dear God,
Thank you for the joy of the September holidays
We are grateful for the time to rest, play, and be together as a family.
Bless our days with laughter, love, and special memories.
Help us to be kind and caring to one another,
And to share your light with those around us.
Guide us to appreciate the beauty of each moment,
And remind us of the peace that comes from your love.
Keep us safe, healthy, and joyful.
May we carry your blessings with us in all that we do.