FAITH MATTERS 

Last week our school community joined with staff and students from St Mary's Primary School for our annual CESH Mass as part of Catholic Education Week. This special celebration provides an opportunity for Catholic schools in Swan Hill to come together in prayer, giving thanks for the gift of Catholic education and the shared mission we have of nurturing young people in faith, learning and service.

This year's theme, "Peace be with you all" (Romans 15:33), reminded us that Catholic education is about much more than academic achievement. It is about forming young people who are compassionate, hope-filled and committed to making a positive difference in the world. Through faith, learning and community, Catholic schools seek to develop the whole person and encourage students to live lives of purpose and service.

We extend our sincere thanks to St Mary's Primary School for hosting this year's Mass and for the wonderful morning tea provided. Their generosity and hospitality were greatly appreciated by all who attended and reflected the spirit of community that lies at the heart of Catholic education.

Last week also saw the launch of our annual St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. Each year our school community comes together to support individuals and families in our local area who may be experiencing hardship during the colder months. Donations of non-perishable food items, pantry staples and toiletries help St Vincent de Paul provide practical assistance to those most in need.

At this stage, donations have been slow to arrive, and we encourage every member of our community to consider contributing at least one item. Small acts of generosity can make a significant difference when combined with the efforts of others. Families are also invited to support the appeal, with donations able to be dropped off at the Front Office. As a Catholic community, this appeal is a tangible way of living out our faith through solidarity, compassion and care for our neighbours.

Today we also acknowledge World Environment Day, which this year focuses on the urgent challenges facing our environment and climate. As people of faith, we are called to be good stewards of God's creation. During Laudato Si' Week a few weeks ago, our students reflected on Pope Francis' invitation to care for our common home and to recognise the interconnectedness of all creation. The choices we make each day—both individually and collectively—have the power to protect and nurture the world entrusted to us.

As we continue through this term, may we be inspired to care for both people and planet, responding with generosity to those in need and acting responsibly as stewards of God's creation.

Loving God,

We thank You for the gift of creation— 

for the beauty of the earth, 

the abundance of its resources, 

and the people who share this world with us.

Help us to care for our common home with wisdom and respect.

 Open our hearts to those who are struggling, 

that we may respond with generosity and compassion.

May we recognise Your presence in all creation 

and be faithful stewards of the gifts You have entrusted to us.

Guide us to build a world where people and nature flourish together,

and where Your peace and love are reflected in all we do.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen

Jesus light of the world, guide us 

St Joseph, journey with us 

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us 

Alison Wright

Director of Faith and Mission