Our Faith - Religion - Prayer

St Patrick's Church Walcha

For Baptism or Marriage enquiries phone Fr Anthony Koppman 67772129.

Fr Anthony would like to invite parishioners to Sunday Mass 10am.

Term 2 Mass Dates

Friday 9th May: Mass at 9.15am

Friday 13th June: Mass at 9.15am

Friday 27th June: Mass at 9.15am

Reflection

As we enter the final stretch of Lent, with just over two weeks remaining in this sacred season, we are reminded of its purpose—prayer, fasting, and almsgiving—as we prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter.

Lent is a time of reflection and renewal, calling us to deepen our relationship with God and to embrace acts of kindness, sacrifice, and faith. These last two weeks provide a valuable opportunity to refocus our intentions and ensure we are making the most of this season of grace.

Whether through prayer, acts of service, or personal sacrifices, let us continue our Lenten journey with open hearts, striving to grow spiritually and draw closer to God. May we all find strength and inspiration in these remaining days as we prepare to celebrate the resurrection of Christ at Easter.

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

As we journey through these final weeks of Lent, help us to remain faithful in prayer, steadfast in sacrifice, and generous in love. Open our hearts to Your grace, that we may grow closer to You and prepare our souls for the joy of Easter.

Strengthen us in times of weakness, guide us in moments of doubt, and fill us with Your peace. May we walk with Christ in humility and love, embracing the path that leads to new life in Him.

Amen.

Stations of the Cross Liturgy

As we approach the school holidays, we are reminded that Good Friday falls during the first week of the break, a solemn day marking the passion and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. To help our students reflect on this important event, they will be participating in a Stations of the Cross liturgy on Friday, 11th April, at 10:00 AM at St Patrick’s Catholic Church.

This special liturgy will guide us through the final moments of Jesus’ journey to the cross, offering a time for prayer and reflection on His ultimate act of love and sacrifice.

We warmly invite parents, families, and community members to join us for this meaningful service. Let us come together in faith as we prepare our hearts for Easter.

Project Compassion

The beginning of Lent marks the launch of the annual Caritas Australia Project Compassion Appeal. Donations to Project Compassion support Caritas Australia, the Catholic agency for international aid and development, in working alongside communities worldwide to combat poverty, hunger, oppression, and injustice.

During this Lenten season, we are encouraged to express our compassion through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, supporting those in need through Project Compassion. Recently, each student received a Project Compassion box to collect donations, helping to make a difference for future generations! It you could assist in anyway, it would be greatly appreciated.

Walk for Lent - QR code to donate to St Patrick's Primary School Fundraiser.

As we approach the final week of term, our school community will unite in a meaningful act of solidarity by participating in the Project Compassion walk. This Lenten fundraiser, organised by Caritas Australia, aims to raise awareness and funds to support vulnerable communities around the world.

Project Compassion focuses on empowering individuals and communities to overcome poverty, injustice, and inequality. Through education, health initiatives, and sustainable development programs, Caritas Australia provides vital support to those facing hardship. Our walk will be a symbolic journey, reflecting the steps taken by those we are supporting to build a better future.

We understand that this time of year can be financially demanding for many families, especially with our P&F Easter Egg raffle also taking place. However, we believe that even a small contribution can make a significant difference. Your generosity will directly impact the lives of those in need, helping to provide access to essential resources and opportunities.

We invite all students and staff to join us in this meaningful walk during the final week of term. To make a donation, please scan the QR code below. Your support is deeply appreciated.

Jubilee 2025 Pilgrims of Hope

The Jubilee 2025 is a special year of celebration in the Catholic Church, proclaimed by Pope Francis, with the theme "Pilgrims of Hope." It is a time for renewal, spiritual reflection, and growth in faith.

What is the Jubilee 2025?

A Jubilee Year is a sacred tradition in the Catholic Church, occurring every 25 years, offering special graces, forgiveness, and opportunities for spiritual growth. It is a time of pilgrimage, prayer, and reconciliation. Pope Francis has declared 2025 as the next Jubilee Year, inviting the faithful to focus on hope, unity, and renewal.

Pilgrims of Hope

The theme, "Pilgrims of Hope," encourages people to embark on a journey of faith, trust in God’s promises, and actively spread hope in their communities. The theme emphasises:

Spiritual renewal – Strengthening faith through prayer, the sacraments, and acts of mercy.
Unity and solidarity – Bringing people together in hope, regardless of differences.
Commitment to justice and peace – Encouraging action to help those in need.

Key Events and Activities

Pilgrimages to Rome and Holy Sites – Millions of Catholics will travel to Rome to participate in special events, including Masses and prayers led by the Pope.
Holy Doors Opening – The opening of Holy Doors in major basilicas symbolizes entry into God’s grace.
Acts of Mercy and Service – Encouraging individuals and communities to serve those in need as an expression of faith.

Sacrament Dates for 2025

2025 First Reconciliation: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Years 2 and 3 for Friday 24th October 2025.

2025 First Eucharist: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Year 3 for Sunday 22nd June 2025.

2025 Confirmation: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Years 5 and 6 for Sunday 21st September 2025.

Catherine McAuley

Catherine’s spirituality was centred on the mercy of God…prayer in action…action in prayer.