Advent

As the first week of Advent draws upon us this Sunday it is important to reflect on the true meaning of this season in our liturgical calendar. It is a time of expectant waiting, hopeful anticipation and joyful preparation as we commemorate the birth our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. The four candles on the Advent wreath, three purple and one pink represent the four weeks of Advent. The fifth and final candle is known as 'Christ's candle' and is lit on Christmas Day. The gradual lighting of the candles each week as we journey through Advent, represents the increasing light of Christ and his coming. The first purple candle represents HOPE. This clip explains the real meaning of Advent in 2 minutes. It is student/child friendly so I hope you enjoy it.

The students will be provided with a few Advent initiatives that you can complete together as a family (Check their school bags this Friday to locate them).

Additionally, there will be a one dimensional ‘Random Acts of Kindness’ Christmas Tree at school where students, teachers and parents are encouraged to think about and write (on a card bauble) a Random Act of Kindness, they will adopt this Advent. Our Year 6 students will be on hand before school each morning from Monday 4th December, 2023 outside the office to assist. I encourage you to join in this initiative and lead the students by example.

Term 4 Family Mass - Saturday 2nd December, 2023

A reminder that this Saturday is our final Family Mass for 2023. I look forward to celebrating this first week of Advent with you all.

Playgroup

Our Playgroup this week worked together to set up the Nativity that you can all see through the window in the Parish Centre. Well done boys… and Mum’s! We also read my favourite children’s Christmas story Wombat Divine by Mem Fox and created images of Santa using paint and our hands.

Sydney Vinnies Brekky Van 2024

Thank you again to all the parent volunteers who assisted with the Sydney Vinnies Brekky Van this year. I am pleased to announce the dates for 2024. If you would like to be a part of this very important ministry, please email me and I will forward the documentation for completion. For those who would like to join again in 2024, please email me direct so that I can add you to the roster on your preferred date. lucille.gravina@syd.catholic.edu.au

Christmas at the Cathedral

Each Year St Mary's Cathedral host a spectacular 'Christmas at the Cathedral' event with gift and food stalls, entertainment and the lighting of the Cathedral façade`. This year it will be held each evening from Thursday 14th December, 2023 until Monday 25th December, 2023 from 5:30pm to 10:30pm. What a great family activity to participate in this Advent!

May the peace and light of Christ fill your hearts and home this Festive Season. Have a restful break. Go Gently, every blessing

Ms Lucille Gravina

Family Educator

Religious Education

Holley Giannikos