Education in Faith
Confirmation Retreat Day
Preparations have already begun for our next sacrament at St Anthony's, Confirmation, with many of our Year Five and Six students getting ready to take part. Yesterday all of our students in senior school departed on a beautiful retreat day, full of reflection and learning experiences.
St Francis Church
The day began with a visit to St Francis, the oldest Catholic Church in Victoria. Students were greeted with some beautiful stories as well as a visit inside the church. We thank Father Leenus and the other priests in attendance who assisted with our candidates making reconciliation.
Missionaries of Charity
Our next stop was to the wonderful sisters at the Missionary of Charity. Students learnt about the stories of some of the hard working people who have dedicated their life to the Lord. Students reflected on Mother Theresa's mission, as well as some of the choices we can make to serve others.
Carmelite Sisters Chapel
Stopping at the beautiful gardens and hall of this chapel, students learnt about the Carmelite Sisters who have dedicated their lives to prayer. They reflected on the similarities and differences between this chapel and our own church at St Anthony's, as well as the great importance of prayer in our lives. Beautifully, our group prayed and sang together!
St Patrick's Cathedral
Students learnt about the concept of the 'mother church' as well as the stunning architectural features of this cathedral. They responded to question booklets regarding information about the history of this site, as well as its many features. We were so blessed with a beautiful day of weather yesterday, so the sun streamed through the stained glass as the students explored each part of this large and impressive space.
Students returned home with a great deal of wonder at the beautiful places they had visited, and some of the stories that had been told to them.
A great theme of the day was that of choice. Students were exposed first hand to people who have chosen to dedicate their lives to Jesus, and were in turn able to reflect on the choices presented to us each day.
How can I choose to follow the Lord?
What is the right choice when I feel frustrated or angry?
What should I do when I feel I have made a mistake, or the wrong choice?
What were the choices of Jesus in stories from the Bible?
What were the choices of Saints we are studying in preparation for Confirmation?
What does it mean to make the choice to become confirmed?
We cannot thank enough our organiser for the day, Mrs Joan Ferguson, for planning such a reverent and interesting day for our students. Joan gave up lots of her time in planning this retreat, then spending the day talking, sharing and leading our students. We are very fortunate to have worked with her, thank you again!
Wishing each and every one of our families a blessed holiday break. May it be restful, enjoyable, happy, warm and everything you would like it to be! We look forward to celebrating confirmation next term, then preparing for our holy end to the year through Advent and the Christmas story.
Take care,
Tim O'Mahoney
Education in Faith Leader