Catholic Identity

St Patrick's Celebrations

Thursday, March 14th: School Mass and BBQ Celebration

Join us as we launch our St. Patrick's Day celebrations with a special school mass led by Fr. Uday. The mass will commence at 11 am and provide an opportunity for our school community to reflect on the values of St. Patrick, our patron saint. Following the mass, all are invited to a free BBQ celebration.

Monday, March 18th: St. Patrick's Day Sports Carnival

On this day, our school will host a vibrant Sports Carnival in celebration of St. Patrick's Day. Managed by 'Education Sports Carnivals', the carnival will run from 12 pm to 3 pm. Students are encouraged to wear green attire as they rotate through 12 different activities in multi-age groups. We have some amazing parent volunteers helping out to ensure that the Sports Carnival is a highlight of the school year. Keep an eye out for a special treat awaiting our students—a delightful surprise to cap off the festivities.

About St Patrick

St. Patrick is a special figure we honour because of his remarkable story and the impact he made in Ireland. Born in Roman Britain during the late 4th century, he had an extraordinary journey. At the young age of 16, St. Patrick was taken as a slave to Ireland. Despite his captivity, he managed to escape. However, he chose to return to Ireland to spread Christianity. His mission was profound. By the time of his passing on March 17, 461, St. Patrick had established monasteries, churches, and schools, leaving behind a legacy of faith and education.

In our local context, St. Patrick holds significance beyond his historical importance. Our church, built in Tongala in 1909, stands as a testament to his influence. Blessed and opened on November 28th, 1909, the church was dedicated to St. Patrick, serving as a beacon of faith for the community. It's a reminder of the enduring impact of St. Patrick's teachings and spirit.

Furthermore, St. Patrick's School, founded in 1959, bears his name as a tribute to his legacy. As the patron saint of Ireland and a symbol of resilience, faith, and compassion, St. Patrick continues to inspire us to uphold these values in our lives and community. Through his example, we learn the power of forgiveness, perseverance, and the importance of spreading kindness and goodwill to others.

As we celebrate St. Patrick's Day, let's reflect on his teachings and the enduring legacy he left behind. May his spirit guide us in our journey towards a brighter, more compassionate world.

Last Wednesday we proudly commissioned 9 new FIRE Carriers at St. Patrick's, marking a significant moment in our ongoing journey. The FIRE Carrier Project, a powerful collaboration between the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry Victoria, Opening the Doors Foundation, and Catholic Education Sandhurst, continues to spark the fires of Reconciliation within our schools and beyond.

Joined by Louise Levy from Catholic Education Sandhurst, we welcomed our newest FIRE Carriers into the fold, enriching the ranks of our Grade 6 FIRE Carriers.

In the year ahead, our FIRE Carriers will unite to drive projects aimed at delving deeper into Aboriginal history and nurturing the roots of reconciliation. Together, we stride purposefully towards a future where unity and understanding flourish.

Seven Catholic Social Teaching Principles

Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is rooted in Scripture, formed by the wisdom of Church leaders, and influenced by grassroots movements. It is our moral compass, guiding us on how to live out our faith in the world.

The CST principles which inspire our work are:

• Human Dignity
• Common Good
• Solidarity
• Subsidiarity
• Preferred Option for the Poor
• Care for Creation
• Participation

Our faith calls us to love God and to love our neighbours in every situation, especially our sisters and brothers living in poverty. Following in the footsteps of Christ, we hope to make present in our unjust and broken world, the justice, love and peace of God.