St Finbar's Newsletter

Religious Education

Welcome Back to Term 2

We began the term with a beautiful celebration of faith as all students from Prep to Year 6 gathered for a whole-school Mass led by Fr Stephen. It was a meaningful way to come together in prayer and reflection, asking for God’s blessing over the term ahead. The reverence and participation shown by our students was a testament to the strong faith community we continue to build at our school.

 

Throughout the Mass, we paused to reflect on the historic passing of Pope Francis. As the leader of the Catholic Church, the Pope plays a vital role in guiding millions of people in faith, compassion, and service. His life was one of deep faith, humility, and service to others, and he leaves behind a legacy of compassion and courage that inspired people all over the world.

 

Witnessing the transition to a new Pope is a truly special moment in Church history—something many people may only experience once in their lifetime. It offers our students a rare opportunity to be part of a significant event that connects us to the universal Church and its traditions. 

 

We encourage families to explore this link or watch the video below to learn more about how the next Pope is chosen and to discuss this momentous occasion together.

Project Compassion

We are proud to share the success of our fundraising efforts for Project Compassion that commenced at the end of Term 1, with our school community raising a total of $1121.75 to support Caritas Australia's important work. 

A big thank you goes to all students, teachers and families who contributed so generously. Special congratulations to our top three fundraising classes: 3F led the way with a phenomenal $134.15, followed by 1C with $113.05, and 2F with $104.70. 

 

Your compassion and commitment to helping those in need make a real difference—thank you for living out our school values in such a meaningful way.

 

New Movie - King of Kings 

We’re excited to share with families a new animated film currently in cinemas called The King of Kingsthat has been out in local cinemas since April 10th and is still screening in many cinemas across Melbourne. This movie brings the story of Jesus to life in a fresh and engaging way, told through the imaginative lens of Charles Dickens as he narrates to his son, Walter. 

With an all-star cast including Kenneth Branagh, Uma Thurman, Mark Hamill, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, Forest Whitaker, and Oscar Isaac, The King of Kings offers a unique and powerful retelling of the Gospel story that is both accessible and inspiring for all ages. 

 

If you are interested, feel free to watch the trailer below or book tickets for you and your family at your local cinemas. 

Gospel Reflection - Sunday 4th of May - Third Sunday of Easter

Gospel Reading 

John 21:1-19

Jesus appears to the disciples for a third time after his Resurrection and shares a meal with them.

 

Family Connection

Today's Gospel describes what we can easily imagine as a picnic on the beach. Jesus' attentiveness to food and mealtimes raises the possibility that our meal gatherings can be sacred times. In families, the domestic church, our meals together are everyday opportunities to gather and recall Jesus' presence with us. As in the Eucharist, we bring the gifts that God has given us, which have been prepared especially for our Mass, and at our family meals we share gifts that God has given to us and that we have worked together to prepare. This includes the food on the table and also the people who gather around the table. We ask God to bless these gifts and to be present among us in all of our interactions.

 

Consider a recent family meal: 

  • What food was served? 
  • Where did the food come from? 
  • Who prepared the food? 
  • Who served the food? 
  • Was mealtime a happy time? Why or why not? 

Observe that today's Gospel tells about a meal that Jesus shared with his disciples after his Resurrection. 

  1. Read aloud today's Gospel, John 21:1-14. 
  2. Reflect on the Gospel reading using the questions above. 
  3. Talk about ways in which this meal that Jesus shared with his disciples might remind us of the meal we share at the Eucharist. 
  4. You might choose to plan a special meal together as a family, encouraging each person to participate in the meal preparation. 
  5. Pray together that Jesus will make his loving presence known in your family life. 
  6. Pray together the Lord's Prayer.

 

May God bless,

Laura Zeeng 

Deputy Principal & Religious Education Leader (REL)