Our Faith - Religion - Prayer 

St Patrick's Church Walcha 

For Baptism or Marriage enquiries phone Monsignor Ted Wilkes 67784070.

Monsignor Ted Wilkes would like to invite parishioners to Sunday Mass 10am.

Term 1 Mass Dates

Wednesday 18th February: Ash Wednesday and Opening School Year Mass at 11.30am

Tuesday 17th March: Mass (Feast of St Patrick) at 11.30am

Friday 27th March: Mass and First Reconciliation after at 11.30am

Reflection

As the school gates swing open for 2026, we stand at the threshold of a brand-new chapter. A new school year is more than just a change in the calendar; it is a "fresh canvas" provided to us by God—a gift of 200 days to grow in wisdom, kindness, and community.

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus reminds us, "You are the light of the world." As we begin this journey, we reflect on how we can let that light shine through our studies, our friendships, and our service to one another. Whether it is a Kindergartener stepping into the classroom for the first time or a Year 6 leader preparing for their final primary year, each person carries a unique spark that contributes to the warmth of our school family.

Let us move into this year with ears open to learning, hearts open to friendship, and spirits open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer 

Dear Lord,

We give you thanks for the excitement 

and the "newness" of this school year. 

We ask for Your blessing upon our students: 

May they find joy in discovery and courage in the face of challenges.

We ask for Your blessing upon our teachers and staff: 

May they be granted patience, wisdom, and the grace to inspire young minds.

We ask for Your blessing upon our families: 

May our homes be places of peace and our partnership remain strong.

As we prepare for our Beginning of School Year Mass, 

we especially pray for our new student leaders. 

May they lead with the heart of a servant, just as Jesus did.

Guide our steps this year, Lord, and help us 

to build a community where everyone feels they belong.

Amen.

Beginning of School Year  Mass -  Wednesday 18th February at 11.30am

We warmly invite you to join us for our first K-6 School Mass of 2026! We will gather at St Patrick’s Church on February 18th at 11:30 am to celebrate the start of the new school year as well as Ash Wednesday (first day of the new church season of Lent). During this service, Monsignor Ted will bless the badges of our newly appointed School Captains, House Captains, and School Leaders as they are officially commissioned into their roles. We look forward to seeing you there for this significant.

Sacrament Dates for 2026

2026 First Reconciliation: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Years 2, 3 and Year 4 for Friday 27th March 2026.

2026 First Eucharist: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Year 3 and 4 for Sunday 7th June 2026. 

Catherine McAuley

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