Faith Matters
at St Francis Xavier School
Dear St Francis Xavier Families,
I hope you have all received the communications regarding our special Family Mass on Saturday, November 16th at 6pm. We would love to see as many families as possible at what promises to be a beautiful mass, celebrating our school community.
Visiting the Church with the 1/2s
I had the pleasure of going to the church with the 1/2 classes this week to participate in a 'Treasure Hunt'. The children have been learning about the signs, symbols and items within the church building itself and those that we view during the mass. They were challenged to locate the various items within St Francis Xavier church and I must say they did so with great enthusiasm. Some of them even showed me items they located that weren't on their list. I was impressed by their engagement, curiosity and the questions they asked.
Locating the Baptismal Font and Paschal Candle
Locating the Baptismal Font and Paschal Candle
Finding the Votive Candles
Finding the Votive Candles
Busy looking for all the items around our church
Busy looking for all the items around our church
Checking off the items we found in the church
Checking off the items we found in the church
Prayer Blocks
On Monday, the Preps invited me into their classroom to see the way they prayed with their prayer blocks - yet another unique way of talking to God. I loved hearing their prayer variations. Some had chosen a prayer to ask for help for themselves or someone else, others verbalised a thank you prayer and a few had prayers of intention for a special person in their lives.
Baptism
A few of our families have been in touch about having students baptised this year or early in 2025. If you are considering this please don't hesitate to communicate with me and I can chat with you about the preparation and let you know the available dates. Students must be baptised prior to receiving Reconciliation and First Communion which takes place in Year 4.
3/4L Meditation
I am always in awe of the way in which our staff create opportunities for the children to make connections with our faith and everyday life. This week 3/4L integrated their learning about the rosary into a Christian meditation session after recess. Such a calm and soothing way to reset before learning begins after a busy playtime.
God's blessings to you all,
Marion O'Brien
Education in Faith Leader