Religious Dimension
This Weeks Gospel
This weeks Gospel is from Luke 6:27-38. Be merciful as your Father is merciful!
This scripture presents a challenge to many, especially when we struggle with how to love someone who seems intent on causing harm. I've heard this explained to me in various ways, but what resonates most, is thinking of it as showing compassion for the person, while separating their actions from who they are.
'Treat others as you want to be treated' - We are called to care for all of God's people, but that doesn’t mean we have to approve of harmful actions or hurtful words that they may choose to use.
Loving our enemies doesn’t mean condoning their behavior, but it means offering grace, even when it’s difficult. It’s about choosing kindness over retaliation, understanding over judgment and showing the same compassion that God extends to us, even in our imperfections. By loving our enemies, we break the cycle of hate and reflect the mercy God has shown us.
Founders Day Mass - Sunday, 23 February
On Sunday, we gave thanks for Diane and Ross Hancock for their invaluable contributions to our St. John's parish community. Our school leaders spoke thoughtfully and with great intent about why Diane and Ross are so appreciated in our parish, particularly for their roles in supporting St. Vinnies and leading Children’s Liturgy. We are truly blessed to be part of such an active community, where so many parishioners serve as role models of faith and dedication, who we can look up to.
Baptism
If you are interested in having your child baptised in the coming months, we would love to include them in a special celebration with a few of our students who will be baptised together. The ceremony will take place at St. John’s Parish and is organised by contacting Manuela from our parish. We are aiming to have it on the same date for a shared experience. If you would like to learn more or wish to arrange your child’s baptism, please contact me, Melinda Buscema or Manuela from our parish, at your earliest convenience.
mitcham@cam.org.au or mbuscema@sjmitcham.catholic.edu.au
Tuesday Class Masses
Here is a list of our class masses each Tuesday and we would love you to join us to support the students as they connect with our parish community.
| Class: | Date: | Where: |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2B - Naomi Ryan and Ange Crowe | 25 February, 10am | St John's Church |
| 5/6A - Tracey Farrar | 4 March, 10am | St John's Church |
| 5/6B - Marisa Box | 11 March, 10am | St John's Church |
| 5/6C - Allison Bayliss | 18 March, 10am | St John's Church |
| Prep A - Cara Woolley | 25 March, 10am | St John's Church |
Important dates in Term 1 , 2025
| What | When | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Ash Wednesday Mass | 5 March, 10am | St John's Church |
| Parent Eucharist Information evening | 25 March, 6:30pm | St James |
| Stations of the Cross | 31 March (Time TBC) | St John's School |
| The Last Supper (End of year assembly) | 4 April, 12:15pm | Mary MacKillop |
Melinda Buscema
(Deputy/REL)