Year 3 Reconciliation Retreat 

Last Wednesday, Year 3 headed out to Carroll College to join their peers from St Bernard's for a Reconciliation Retreat Day. 

There was very much excitement on the bus ride out to Broulee and the boys and girls were very happy to get to say hello to many of their friends, older siblings and even some of their old Year 6 Buddies once we arrived. 

During the day the students worked through a variety of activities aimed at deepening their understanding of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. They were asked to reflect on the meaning of forgiveness and its link to Scripture , in particular The Lost Sheep and The Prodigal Son. The events of the day were led by the Year 9 and 10 Youth Ministry students. There were many fun games played, as well as prayer responses, role play, artwork and activities looking at scripture and how we can be more forgiving in our own lives. 

Students enjoyed a hotdog and ice block for lunch and we finished the day with Fr George sharing a special prayer and blessing of the First Reconciliation candidates. We thank Carroll College for hosting a wonderful day out for our students.

I liked completing all the activities in the booklet. It made me think about how God is with us always.    Evie

I enjoyed meeting Father George and Carroll College friends and teachers.    Evan

It was so fun meeting new friends from St Bernards.     Amelia

My favourite part of the day was going into groups and doing different activities, my favourite was acting out the scenarios of apologising.     Quinn

Combined Schools Mass

What a wonderful and inspiring occasion! Our K-12 Combined Schools Mass was a truly special celebration of 30 years of faith, learning, and community. Gathering under the theme "Anchored in Hope," we reflected on our shared journey, gave thanks for our blessings, and looked forward with renewed faith.

The theme “Anchored in Hope” served as a reminder that in times of challenge and change, it is our faith that holds us steady, just as an anchor secures a ship in turbulent waters. 

We came together in prayer to celebrate two significant milestones. Firstly, we joined the global Church in the Jubilee Year and secondly, we gave thanks for 30 years of K-12 Catholic education in our region with the formation of Carroll College Broulee.

The beautiful Mass, uplifting music, and the strong sense of unity among our students, staff, and families make this a truly special event each time. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to making the celebration so meaningful.

In particular we extend our gratitude to Fr George and also Carroll College for their wonderful hospitality. The students were delighted to receive their special Easter snack packs after the Mass. May we continue to remain anchored in hope as we journey forward together!

Sacrament of First Reconciliation

This Thursday 10 April, six of our Year 3 students will be receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time. The celebration will take place in the Church at 5:00pm. We will keep these students in our prayers over the coming week as they continue to prepare for this very special celebration. 

Family Parish Mass

It was wonderful to welcome so many students and families to our Family Mass last Saturday evening. Thank you to all those who came along and participated - as altar servers, readers, choir members and in the offertory procession. Your involvement made the celebration even more special. We hope to hold a Family Mass every term and will share the date for the next Mass once it is confirmed.

Easter Liturgy
Families and friends are invited to join us for our Easter Liturgy on Wednesday 9 April at 9:00am in the PAC. Our Year 4 students will be sharing the story of Easter, and we look forward to coming together as a community to celebrate this special occasion in the Church calendar.

Easter Mufti Day

On Thursday 10 April students have the opportunity to wear Mufti with a hint of Easter for the last day of term for students. Students are encourage to bring in a gold coin which will go towards Project Compassion to assist those less fortunate than us this Easter.

Palm Sunday
We warmly welcome all families and friends to our Palm Sunday Parish Mass on Saturday 12 April at 5.00pm. Palm Sunday marks the beginning of Holy Week and Jesus’ triumphant ride through Jerusalem. It would be wonderful if as many students as possible could be present to participate in parts of the Mass. Palms for the Entrance Procession will be given to the children on arrival at the Church at 4.45pm. If you are able to attend, can you please email jo.wain@cg.catholic.edu.au.

ANZAC Day
On Friday 25th April, St Mary’s will participate in ANZAC Day ceremonies in the local area. We join with others to show unity and support for those men and women who have served and made sacrifices for our country. ANZAC Day provides an opportunity for our students to better understand this aspect of our history and participate in a very important event in our community. St Mary’s will be represented at the Tuross Dawn Service, Tomakin Dawn Service and Moruya March and Service. We invite students and families to join us at one of these services in school uniform to represent St Mary’s. 

Condolences
We extend our heartfelt prayers and condolences to Mr Matt Harpley, Robyn, Millie and Tessa (Year 6) following the passing of Matt’s father this week. Our thoughts are also with Mrs Sue Heffernan as she mourns the recent loss of her father. May they find comfort in the love and support of our community.

 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)

Dear Lord,

We pray that in this time of loss,

You'll feel God's love much more

And that you'll find your comfort

In the presence of the Lord

We pray God pours upon you,

His sweet amazing grace

And overflow your heart with peace

As you live in His embrace.

Amen