Religious Dimension

Our Year 6 Confirmation

We are so proud of our Year 6 students who received the Sacrament of Confirmation on Saturday, August 16 at 2pm. It was a beautiful and prayerful celebration, filled with the presence of the Holy Spirit and the support of our families, parish, and school community.

The students participated with reverence, maturity, and joy which is a true reflection of their readiness to take this next step in their faith journey. Their commitment reminds us all of the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives, calling us to live with courage, love, and hope.

We thank our families, teachers, and parish team for preparing and guiding the children so beautifully. It was truly a special milestone in their spiritual growth.

Let us continue to pray for our newly confirmed students — that they may always be open to the Spirit’s guidance and grow in faith, wisdom, and strength.

This Week's Gospel - Luke 12:49-53

In this week’s Gospel, Jesus says, “I have come to bring fire on the earth.” These strong and surprising words remind us that the message of Jesus can be challenging. It asks something of us — sometimes even creating division when we stand up for what is right, loving, and just.

As parents, we are constantly helping our children navigate right and wrong, fairness, and forgiveness. We might wonder:

• What does it mean to follow Jesus when it’s hard?
• How can we help our children be brave in standing up for their faith and values?

• Are there small choices we can make as a family that show our commitment to the Gospel?

   

Jesus calls us to be people of courage and integrity, even when it means standing alone. May we walk this path together, trusting that God is with us.

Family Prayer

Loving God,

Help us to be brave when we need to stand up for what is right.

Fill our hearts with your love and our voices with your truth.

May our family shine with your light, even when the way is difficult.

Amen

Family Action Idea

This week, talk as a family about a time when someone stood up for what was right — at school, in the news, or in your own life. What helped them be brave? What might you do if you were in their shoes?

Melinda's Pilgrimage to Ireland

It is such a blessing to be able to take part in a pilgrimage during this year of Jubilee. I will going to Ireland for two weeks during the school holidays to be immersed into the encounter of our saviour.  

The components of this pilgrimage are..

Prayer

• Beginning each day with prayer to set a reflective and spiritual tone.
• Celebrating Mass regularly throughout the pilgrimage to nurture spiritual growth.

Teaching

• Engaging in learning experiences that explore the Catholic tradition and the role of Irish religious orders in pioneering Catholic education in Melbourne.

Site visits

• Visiting places of spiritual, historical and cultural significance to the Catholic Church.
• Exploring locations associated with Irish saints and religious orders to connect participants with the rich heritage of Catholic faith and mission.

With me, I hope to bring any prayers of hope or healing that you may require for family, friends or yourself as I am more than happy to bring them with me to Ireland. Writing your prayer in a sealed envelope will keep it confidential and then I can leave them in a sacred churches site as I journey around Ireland. I am a firm believer in the power of prayer so please write your prayer and leave your prayer in the box prepared at St John's Church or Primary School. 

Tuesday Class Masses

Every Tuesday one of our classes joins the parishioners at the 10am morning mass. We would love you to join us to support the students as they connect with our parish community. This is our last one for the term and we hope that you can be there.

Melinda Buscema 

(Deputy/REL)

mbuscema@sjmitcham.catholic.edu.au