Catholic Identity

Gospel Reflection

The Parable of the Dishonest Manager

Summary

Jesus tells the parable of a dishonest manager who, when facing dismissal, acts quickly and shrewdly to secure his future. Surprisingly, his master commends his cleverness. Jesus then teaches that we should be wise in how we use what we have, faithful in small things as well as big, and always clear about who we serve. He makes it plain that we cannot serve both God and wealth — we must choose one master.

Scripture - Luke 16:1–13

Jesus said to his disciples: “There was a rich man who had a steward accused of wasting his goods. He said to him, ‘Give an account, for you can no longer be steward.’

The steward said, ‘What shall I do? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I know what I will do…’ So he reduced the debts of his master’s debtors so they would welcome him later.

The master commended the dishonest steward because he acted shrewdly; for the children of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the children of light.

Jesus said: “Whoever is faithful in very little is faithful also in much… No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.”

Reflection

This story is tricky — the manager wasn’t honest, but he was smart and acted quickly. Jesus points out that if people can be so clever in looking after themselves, then as people of faith, we should be even wiser in how we live for God.

It’s not about money being bad, but about what we do with what we’ve been given. Being trustworthy in little things shows who we really are. If we cut corners in small things, we probably won’t be trustworthy in bigger ones.

Finally, Jesus makes it simple: we can’t split our hearts between God and money. One will always come first. Following Jesus means choosing God as our one master, trusting Him above everything else.

Reflection questions

Where do I spend most of my time and energy — is it on things that last, or things that pass away?
What are the “small things” in my life where I can show faithfulness and honesty?
Do I sometimes try to serve two masters — for example, wanting both God and control, God and comfort, God and money? What does it look like to choose God first?

Prayer

Loving God,

You give us so much and call us to use it wisely. Help us to be faithful in the small things of daily life, honest in how we live, and generous in how we treat others. Teach us to place You above everything else, and to serve You alone with all our heart. Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Season of Creation

Each year from 1 September to 4 October, the Catholic Church around the world celebrates the Season of Creation – a time set aside to reflect on God’s gift of creation and to commit ourselves to caring for our common home. This season invites us to pray, learn, and act together for the environment, inspired by Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’.

At school, we are marking this special season in a number of ways:

Diocesan Mass – Our leaders will join schools across the Diocese to celebrate Mass together.
Unit Masses – Each learning unit will gather for Mass with a focus on creation.
Prayer and Classroom Activities – Students will take part in prayers, reflections, and learning activities that highlight care for the earth and sustainable living.

Families are encouraged to join in this season at home. Some simple ways include:

Taking a walk together and noticing the beauty of nature.
Planting something in the garden or caring for a pot plant.
Praying as a family in gratitude for creation.
Making small choices to care for the earth, such as reducing waste, saving water, or turning off lights.

Together, as a school and community, we can use this Season of Creation to deepen our awareness of God’s presence in creation and take steps towards a more sustainable future.

Sacrament of Reconciliation 2025

This term, preparations will begin for the Sacrament of Reconciliation at St Kilian’s Parish. Reconciliation is an important step in the faith journey of our students, offering them the opportunity to experience God’s love, forgiveness and mercy in a special way.

The program is led by the St Kilian’s Parish Sacramental Team and supported by the school. Families have received information about the program, including the enrolment form, schedule and requirements. Forms may be returned to either the school office or the parish office.

Key Dates:

Information Night: Tuesday 8 October, 6:30–7:15 pm
Commitment Masses: Saturday 11 October (6:30 pm) or Sunday 12 October (10:00 am)
Session 1: Tuesday 15 October, 6:30–7:15 pm
Session 2: Tuesday 22 October, 6:30–7:15 pm
Session 3: Tuesday 5 November, 6:30–7:15 pm
Celebration of the Sacrament: Wednesday 12 November, 6:30 pm

If you are interested in your child being part of the program or would like further information, please contact me at mpodosky@skbendigo.catholic.edu.au or see me in person in the office.

We look forward to supporting our children and families as they prepare for this special sacrament.

A Special Announcement & A Note of Thanks

We are delighted to share the joyful news of the safe arrival of our daughter, Maya.

Bella and I are filled with gratitude as we welcome her into our family.

On behalf of Bella and myself, I would also like to sincerely thank our school community for the many kind words, wishes, thoughts, and prayers we have received at this time. Your support has meant so much to us. We feel truly blessed to be part of such a caring and thoughtful community that shares in both our joys and milestones.

As we head into the holiday break, please know that we are also keeping you all in our prayers—that these days bring you rest, joy, and time with your loved ones.

Prayer of Thanksgiving

Loving God,

We give you thanks for the gift of new life, for the joy and wonder that children bring, and for the strength of community that surrounds and supports us. Bless our school family during these holidays—may we find rest, peace, and time with those we love.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.