Assistant Principal

Gospel Challenge - This Week’s Gospel - Luke 14:1, 7–14

This Sunday’s Gospel comes from Luke and in this passage Jesus is invited to a Sabbath meal at the home of a prominent Pharisee—a respected religious leader. It’s a formal gathering, and everyone is watching Jesus closely, perhaps hoping to catch him breaking religious norms.

As Jesus observes the guests, he notices how they’re all trying to get the best seats—the ones that signal status and importance. In response, Jesus shares two teachings that flip social expectations on their head. There are two lessons in the passage that we can apply to our lives today.

Lesson One: Humility Over Status (Verses 7–11)

Jesus advises people not to take the best seat but to instead, choose the lowest place. That way, if the host invites you to move up, you’ll be honoured in front of everyone. But if you’re asked to move down, it’s humiliating. By suggesting this, Jesus is encouraging us to not be obsessed with recognition and influence - whether it’s followers on social media or networking at work events. Jesus challenges us to resist the urge to self-promote, showing us that humility isn’t weakness—it’s wisdom.

Lesson Two: Radical Hospitality (Verses 12–14)

Jesus tells the host of the gathering to not only invite prestigious or popular people but to include ‘the poor.’ By this he means people who won’t ever be able to repay the favour. Jesus teaches us that this is true generosity. We are called to give to others freely - not thinking that there could be something in it for us. 

While at first glance we could think this parable is about dinner etiquette - but we are actually being called to reimagine the way we relate to others. We are called to live in a world without a pecking order but instead in a world that lives humility and compassion. 

Every Day Counts!

School absenteeism in Australia has reached alarming levels in recent years, with new data revealing just how much classroom time students are missing. According to government estimates, nearly 50% of school-aged children—around 2 million students—are now considered chronically absent. That means they’re missing 10% or more of school days each year—roughly 20 days annually or 5 days per term. That’s a full month of lost learning.

The ripple effects are significant. When students aren’t consistently engaged in school, their academic progress, social development and emotional wellbeing can all suffer. And with absenteeism becoming more common in the wake of COVID-19, experts are urging schools and families to take proactive steps to re-establish strong attendance habits.

The Role of Parents

Parents play a vital role in supporting children who are struggling with school attendance  - especially when emotional distress is involved. The most powerful thing a parent can offer is empathy. Children who resist going to school aren’t being defiant—they’re often feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or afraid. Listening without judgement and validating their emotions helps build trust and opens the door to honest conversations.

Routine Builds Resilience

Establishing a consistent routine at home can ease anxiety and help children feel more secure. Simple practices like:

• Regular wake-up and bedtimes

• Predictable mealtimes and after-school activities

• Packing school bags the night before

• Talking through the next day’s plan

These small steps can make a big difference in reducing morning stress and building confidence.

Partnering with the School

Collaboration between parents and schools is essential. Sharing what’s happening at home, seeking tailored support and working with teachers ensures that families aren’t navigating this alone. Sometimes small adjustments—like a quiet space to start the day, a trusted adult to check in with or a modified timetable—can help a child feel safe and supported.

If you're finding it difficult to get your child to school on time or noticing a pattern of absences, please reach out. Our teachers are here to help—because every day of learning matters.