Catholic Identity

Sacrament of Baptism

Over the weekend we had some students celebrate their baptism! We had Hazel and Elaenor Todeschini and Jakobe Jenkins welcomed to the Catholic Church at St. Kilian's Church over the weekend.

Baptism is the first sacrament of the Church. It welcomes a person into the Christian community and symbolises being washed clean of sin and beginning a new life with God. In baptism, water is poured over the person’s head (or they are immersed in water) as the priest says, “I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” It’s a sign of belonging to God’s family, and it marks the start of a journey of faith.

We congratulate and welcome them and their families on this momentous occasion for all! We are so proud of you! We will be praying for you, that the Lord blesses and guides your heart always!

If you are interested in your child, or yourself, baptised please let Mr. Podosky or your classroom teacher know!

Gospel Reflection

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Summary

Jesus tells His followers that the Temple, admired for its beauty and strength, will one day be destroyed — reminding them that nothing on earth lasts forever. He warns them not to be fooled by false teachers or overwhelmed by fear when they see chaos or hardship in the world. Instead, Jesus encourages courage and faith. Even in times of trouble, His followers will have opportunities to share God’s message of hope. He promises to give them wisdom and strength when they need it most and reminds them that if they stay faithful and patient, they will find true life in God.

Scripture – Luke 21:5–19

Some people were talking about the Temple, how beautiful it looked with its fine stones and gifts dedicated to God. But Jesus said, “The time will come when not a single stone here will be left in its place; every one of them will be thrown down.”

They asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? What sign will show that it is about to take place?”

Jesus said, “Be on your guard; don’t be deceived. Many will come using my name and saying, ‘I am he!’ and, ‘The time has come!’ But do not follow them. When you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be afraid, for these things must happen first, but the end will not come immediately.”

He also said, “Nation will fight against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, famines, and plagues in many places; strange and terrifying things will be seen in the sky.

Before all these things happen, you will be arrested and persecuted; you will be handed over to synagogues and put in prison, brought before kings and governors for my sake. This will be your chance to tell the Good News.

Make up your minds not to worry beforehand how you will defend yourselves, for I will give you words and wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to resist or contradict.

You will be betrayed even by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends; some of you will be put to death. You will be hated by all for my name’s sake.

But not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your souls.”

Reflection

This Gospel might sound worrying — talk of destruction, betrayal, and chaos — but Jesus’ message is actually full of comfort and courage. He wants His followers to know that even when life feels uncertain or frightening, God’s love is still strong and unshakable. Jesus is reminding us that faith is about trust. When the world around us feels unstable, our relationship with God becomes the thing we can depend on most. He tells us not to panic, not to lose hope, and not to forget that He is always with us. In our own lives, this could mean staying calm in stressful times, speaking kindly even when others don’t, or choosing hope instead of fear. God doesn’t promise that life will always be easy, but He does promise that we’ll never face it alone — and that if we stay faithful, our hearts and souls will find peace.

When have I had to trust God even though things felt uncertain or scary?
What helps me stay calm and hopeful when life feels stressful?
Jesus says not to be afraid — what gives me courage when I need it most?
How can I share God’s love or hope with someone who is struggling?
What does it mean to “endure” in faith in my everyday life?

Prayer

Loving God,

You remind us that even when the world feels uncertain, Your love never changes. Help us to be brave when life feels difficult, to speak with kindness and trust in Your plan. When we are afraid, give us peace. When we are unsure, give us strength and courage. May we hold firm in faith and remember that You are always with us.

Through Christ our Lord

Amen.

World Kindness Day – 13 November

Summary

World Kindness Day celebrates the power of kindness and reminds us that small actions can make a big difference. It’s a day to notice the good in others, to speak gently, and to spread kindness in our homes, schools, and communities. Acts of kindness don’t need to be big — they just need to be real and from the heart.

Ways Families Can Celebrate at Home

Create a family kindness challenge: each person does one kind thing for someone else that day.
Write or draw thank-you notes for people who make life better — teachers, neighbours, grandparents, or friends.
Do a surprise act of kindness, like baking for someone, leaving a kind note, or helping with a chore.
Share kindness stories at dinner — talk about when someone was kind to you or when you showed kindness to others.
Pray together for people who need comfort or encouragement.

World Day of the Poor – Sunday, 16 November

Summary

World Day of the Poor invites us to see Jesus in those who are struggling, lonely, or in need. Pope Francis reminds us that caring for the poor is not only about giving things but about offering time, friendship, and dignity. This day challenges us to live with compassion and to create a world where no one feels forgotten or left behind.

Ways Families Can Celebrate at Home

Donate food, clothes, or toys to a local charity or parish collection.
Cook or bake something together and deliver it to someone who might be lonely or doing it tough.
Read Matthew 25:35–40 (“Whatever you did for one of the least of these… you did for me”) and talk about what it means.
Spend time in gratitude — share what you’re thankful for and how you can share your blessings.
Pray together for those in need, especially people who are homeless, sick, or feeling alone.