Education in Faith
On the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, we celebrate the moment when Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem, as was required by Jewish law. This was the time when they presented Him to God and offered a sacrifice. While they were in the temple, two important figures, Simeon and Anna, recognised Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah. Simeon, filled with the Holy Spirit, took Jesus in his arms and praised God, saying, "My eyes have seen your salvation." Anna, an elderly prophetess, also praised God and spoke about Jesus to everyone who was waiting for the redemption of Israel.
This beautiful moment reveals how God’s plan for salvation is unfolding through Jesus. Simeon and Anna, both of whom were waiting and praying for the Messiah, recognized Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises. Their joy and faith in God's timing are inspiring reminders for us to trust in God and wait for His promises, knowing that He always keeps His word.
For our families, this feast invites us to reflect on the importance of faith, hope, and waiting on God's promises. Simeon and Anna show us how to live with patience and trust, always believing that God's plan is unfolding in His perfect time.
Key Themes:
Faith and Hope: Simeon and Anna's faith and hope in God's promises were rewarded when they saw Jesus, the Saviour.
God's Timing: God’s plan unfolds in His time, and we are invited to trust that His timing is always right.
Joyful Recognition: Both Simeon and Anna recognised Jesus as the Saviour, and they rejoiced in His presence.
Discussion Starters for Children and Families:
Waiting and Trusting: Simeon and Anna waited for many years for the Saviour to come. What is something you are waiting for right now? How can you trust that God has a good plan for you while you wait?
Seeing Jesus in Our Lives: Simeon and Anna were filled with joy when they saw Jesus. Where do we see Jesus in our lives today? How can we recognize Him in the people and moments around us?
Being Patient: Simeon and Anna waited patiently for a long time. Why is patience important when we are waiting for something special? How can we practice patience in our daily lives?
Celebrating God's Promises: Simeon said, "My eyes have seen your salvation." What promises has God made to us? How can we celebrate God's promises in our family?
Sharing the Good News: After seeing Jesus, Anna told everyone about Him. How can we share the good news of Jesus with others, just like Anna did?
This feast invites families to reflect on how we can wait with hope, recognize God’s presence in our lives, and share our joy with others, just as Simeon and Anna did when they saw Jesus. Let’s embrace this special moment with faith, patience, and gratitude!
Sacramental Events and Dates - 2025
Dear Parents/Guardians/Caregivers,
Please take note of the important dates for our Sacramental celebrations that will take place in 2025. Sacraments play a significant role in the spiritual journey of our students and we need to ensure that you are well-informed and can actively participate in these meaningful events. Kindly mark the following dates in your calendar:
Parents please ACCEPT or DECLINE an invitation on Operoo.
Dates for Sacraments are:
Grade 2 will receive First Reconciliation in Term 4 on Thursday, 20th November 2025.
Grade 3 will receive First Eucharist in Term 2 on Saturday, 21st June 2025.
- Grade 6 will receive Confirmation – Term 3 on Saturday, 6th September 2025.
Reconciliation: baptised Catholics in Year 2.
Eucharist: baptised Catholics in Year 3 or who have celebrated their Reconciliation.
Confirmation: Year 6 Catholics who have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation and Eucharist.
If you have any further questions regarding your child receiving these Sacraments, please feel free to contact me at the school.
God Bless
Rozeta Ambrose
Religious Education Leader
rambrose@sfslynbrook.catholic.edu.au
GRADE 5/6 SOCIAL JUSTICE TEAM – MINI VINNIES
Today I called for all interested Grade 5/6 students to attend a meeting. We discussed the purpose of the SFS Mini Vinnies and the fact that we are a part of the St Vincent De Paul Society. We spoke briefly of the St Vincent de Paul Society logo and the significance behind it.
We had 41 students sign up to be part of the SFS Mini Vinnies this year. They will attend meetings during 2nd lunch on Fridays or Mondays. They will have this term to attend the meetings and find out a bit more about what Mini Vinnies do. They will then be asked to make a commitment to join Mini Vinnies by the end of this term when they will be presented with their Mini Vinnies badge.
Well done to all those students who are willing to give up their lunchtimes to make a difference in our community and world.
COMMUNITY SPIRIT HOUSE POINTS
Today we also distributed the House Point sheets to each Home Group. Staff will begin to give out points to students who demonstrate community spirit within the Learning Space and out on the playground. This will include demonstrating our school PBL Values.
We will begin to give you updates of points next week.
Giuliana