Religious Dimension

Advent at St Joseph’s: A Time of Hope and Giving

Advent is a special season in the Church’s year when we prepare our hearts for the coming of Jesus. It is a time to reflect, pray and grow in love, hope and generosity. At St Joseph’s, we are embracing Advent with meaningful activities both at school and at home, helping our students experience the true spirit of the season.

Week 1: Hope

The first week of Advent focuses on hope. Hope reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world, bringing joy and promise to all people. Throughout this week, students are encouraged to reflect on how they can share hope with others through kind words and actions. At school, each Monday at 3 pm, the whole school gathers to celebrate Advent, share prayers, and reflect on the meaning of hope in our lives.

At home, families can continue this reflection by lighting the first candle of the Advent wreath, sharing prayers together or reading a short Advent story. Small daily acts of kindness are a wonderful way to bring hope to those around us.

Week 2: Peace

The second week of Advent focuses on peace. We are reminded to prepare our hearts to welcome Jesus by showing patience, understanding and love to others. During the week, students will explore ways to bring peace into their classrooms, playgrounds and homes. The Monday 3 pm whole-school gathering continues, allowing students to come together in prayer and reflection, deepening their understanding of Advent.

At home, families can continue to nurture peace by taking time to pause, pray and discuss ways to be peacemakers in daily life. Lighting the second candle on the Advent wreath can be a beautiful reminder of this focus.

St Joseph’s Advent Giving – St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal

This Advent, St Joseph’s is also embracing the spirit of giving. Instead of receiving something each week, we are encouraging our families to think of those in need in our community.

This week, we invite families to:

• Bring a wrapped gift for a child to our Carols evening.
• Contribute a can of food, jar of jam, or toiletries to help families in need.

Your generosity will make a real difference and bring joy and comfort to those who may be struggling this Christmas.

As we journey through Advent, let us focus on hope, peace and giving, sharing the love of Jesus with our families, friends and the wider community.

Jacqui Hayes

jhayes@sjsorrento.catholic.edu.au