Religious Education

The Beginning of Lent 

This past week, our school community came together to observe two significant days in theliturgical calendar, Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday. These events marked thebeginning of our Lenten journey, providing students with the opportunity to reflect, pray, andprepare their hearts for the season ahead.

On Shrove Tuesday, our Year 6 Religious Education student leaders, Evelyn and Kiera, leda special ‘Prayer of the Air’ that invited all students to pause and reflect on the meaning ofLent. Following this, students engaged in class discussions on the readings and completed activities that deepened their understanding of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving.

This day served as a reminder to prepare our hearts for the season of renewal and spiritual growth.

The following day, on Ash Wednesday, students in Years 3 to 6 attended the Parish Mass, where they received ashes as a sign of repentance and commitment to their Lenten journey. Meanwhile, our Year 1 and 2 students participated in special classroom liturgies, led by their teachers, which allowed them to engage with the significance of the day in a meaningful way. These students also received the ashes. 

At our Ash Wednesday Mass, Father John taught the students about the Five Finger Prayer, a simple yet powerful way to guide their prayers to God. He explained that each finger represents a different group to pray for: the thumb for those closest to us, the index finger for those who teach and guide us, the middle finger for leaders, the ring finger for the weak and sick, and the pinkie for ourselves. This meaningful prayer method will support students throughout their Lenten journey, helping them deepen their faith and connection with God. 

As we continue through Lent, we encourage families to reflect on the themes of prayer,f asting, and giving. Through these acts, we prepare our hearts for Easter and strive to make a positive impact on those around us. Let us walk this journey together with faith and kindness, embracing the true spirit of the season.

Vanessa Lamanna

Religious Education Leader