Faith

First Eucharist Mass

We were thrilled to celebrate First Eucharist with many of our students from Holy Cross and the St. Brigid's Catechist Program. The beautiful ceremony took place at St. Brigid's Church in Gisborne on Sunday, September 14th, at 4:30 p.m. 

This was a particularly memorable occasion as it was Father Vincent's last celebration with our Holy Cross community. We wish him all the best and thank him for his guidance and support. 

The day was made extra special with the addition of the Year 4 Felting representing the Eucharist which we were able to hang from the altar as well as the beautiful music from Kylie Sparshott with Mrs Meyer.  

Congratulations to all involved!

Feast Day Thinking - What does the Cross symbolise?

The cross is a symbol of Christianity recognised worldwide, yet we rarely take the time to reflect on its deeper meaning. This week, we shared with our staff some of the rich imagery associated with the cross to help everyone better understand its profound significance for our lives.

The Cross is…

• A lamp (Pope John Paul II) – the Cross shines light on the darkness of sin; when we pray before it we ask that light to enter our hearts.
• A bridge (Pope John Paul II) – it connects our ordinary life with the eternal life Christ won for us; venerating it reminds us to cross over with trust.
• A tree bearing fruit (Pope Benedict XVI) – just as a tree gives fruit, the Cross gives us love, mercy, and salvation; we honor the tree, not the bark.
• A compass (Pope Benedict XVI)  – it shows the direction toward God; kneeling before the Cross is like checking our spiritual bearings.
• A mirror (Pope Leo XIV) – it shows where we are broken and points to the healing love of Christ; veneration is a moment of honest self‑examination.
• A wound that becomes life (Pope Francis)– the very injury of the Cross is the source of new life; honouring it means celebrating that transformation.

Holidays as Recommended by the Popes

Popes throughout recent history have spoken about the importance of holidays and rest, emphasising that they are not just a time for idleness but a necessary part of human and spiritual life.

Key Points from the Popes

• Rest and Renewal: Holidays are a time for both physical and spiritual rest. Pope Benedict XVI noted that "an excessive activity" can lead to a "hardening of the heart."

• Contemplation: Popes, especially Pope Francis, have highlighted holidays as a chance for contemplation and reflection, a time to deepen one's relationship with God.
• Strengthening Relationships: Pope John Paul II emphasised that true well-being is found in recovering a good balance with oneself, with others, and with the environment. Holidays are a privileged time for nurturing relationships with family and friends.
• Putting People Before Things: Pope Francis has warned against the "frenzy of shopping" and the temptation to focus on material things. He encourages people to prioritise relationships and the "ineffable joy" that comes from the closeness of Jesus.

We hope you all have a well-deserved, Papally approved, restful break!