Inspired By Faith News

We pray for the Year 6 students who are currently preparing to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation. This special Sacrament is all about these amazing young people recognising in themselves the inspiring ways they can live out their theme of service to others, use the fruits and gifts of the Holy Spirit in their lives and also consider which fruits they might like to grow and develop.

We invite everyone to attend Mass this Sunday 23rd June, 10am at Immaculate Conception Church for the second Sacrament of Confirmation Commitment Mass. These Masses are an opportunity for candidates to make their commitment towards the Sacrament and be welcomed by and celebrate Mass with the Western Port Parish community before receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation.

St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal

Each year, the Winter Appeal plays a vital role in enabling the Society to deliver good works and with your support we hope to continue serving the community.

The Society in Victoria has provided over $5 million in material assistance in the past 6 months to families in need.

With the current homelessness crisis, the assistance we provide to those experiencing hardship will be needed more than ever.

You can donate to our winter clothing appeal, food drive for the St Vincent de Paul Western Port Conference or online at www.vinnies.org.au

The Western Port St Vincent de Paul Conference delivers food parcels to people in need in our community and is currently looking for donations of the following:

Pasta & Pasta Sauce,
Tinned soup, noodles & cup of soup,
spreads such as Honey, Jam, Vegemite,
Tuna, tinned vegetables and tinned fruit,
Toiletries (toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes),
Long Life Milk, Tea and Coffee.

If you are able to help, please leave your donations at the school office.

Thank you for your support! Any questions, please contact Miss Dullard ndullard@smhastings.catholic.edu.au

Sustainability News

St Mary's is a proud participant in the 7-Eleven Cup Rescue program. We have two cup collection units in our school - one in the front office area and one in the staffroom. It's up to all of us to divert cups from landfill. After use, simply deposit your used cup, lid or straw into one of our cup collection units and our Sustainability team will arrange to have them recycled. We ask that you empty your cups of any liquids before depositing. All brands of cups accepted.

Indigenous Perspective News

St Mary's is proudly participating in NAIDOC Week to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to learn about First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth. As NAIDOC week is taking place in the school holidays, we will be celebrating during the first week of term 3. More information coming soon.

This year's theme celebrates the unyielding spirit of our communities and invites all to stand in solidarity, amplifying the voices that have long been silenced.

The fire represents the enduring strength and vitality of Indigenous cultures, passed down through generations despite the challenges faced. It is a symbol of connection to the land, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. As we honour this flame, we kindle the sparks of pride and unity, igniting a renewed commitment to acknowledging, preserving, and sharing the cultural heritage that enriches our nation.

"Blak, Loud and Proud" encapsulates the unapologetic celebration of Indigenous identity, empowering us to stand tall in our heritage and assert our place in the modern world. This theme calls for a reclamation of narratives, an amplification of voices, and an unwavering commitment to justice and equality. It invites all Australians to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue, fostering a society where the wisdom and contributions of Indigenous peoples are fully valued and respected.

Through our collective efforts, we can forge a future where the stories, traditions, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities are cherished and celebrated, enriching the fabric of the nation with the oldest living culture in the world. Reference: https://www.naidoc.org.au/about/naidoc-theme

Elysium OSHC - Holiday Program