Catholic Identity

Shrove Tuesday 

As discussed in my last bulletin, Shrove Tuesday, often referred to as Pancake Day, gained its roots in the Catholic tradition. The word "shrove" comes from the Old English word "shrive," which means to confess one's sins. In the Catholic faith, Shrove Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of the season of Lent. Traditionally, Shrove Tuesday was a day for Catholics to confess their sins and receive absolution before the solemn period of Lent began.  Also, Shrove Tuesday is a time to use up prized ingredients like eggs and fats before the fasting period of Lent, and people would make pancakes. 

Last week, Ibu Cath and Ms Fenwick prepared pancakes for our students. This act of service also reminds us that during the season of Lent, we take part in small initiatives to serve others. 

Following our pancake breakfast, students attended a Shrove Tuesday Liturgy where they prayed, listened to the Gospel and prepared Lenten promises. 

Thank you, Ibu Cath, for organising the day. 

CARITAS PROJECT COMPASSION 

For over 60 years, Caritas Australia has worked hand in hand with the most marginalised and remote communities in Australia and overseas to confront the challenges of poverty. This year, the theme For All Future Generations is inspired by the story of the burning bush in the book of Exodus (Exodus 3:1–20). In this story, God tells Moses that he has heard the cry of the people. God responds to things not being fair and chooses Moses to speak to Pharaoh. Though Moses is afraid, God promises to be with him. As God called Moses, so now God calls us to work for all future generations.

For the remainder of the term, St Mary’s Catholic Primary will be taking up fundraising initiatives to help raise funds for communities in Australia, the Philippines, Malawi and Samoa.  Students will also become involved in acts of service. 

As part of this initiative, students will receive a special compassion box, a powerful tool designed to not only raise funds but also inspire kindness and community spirit.

Every contribution, big or small, makes a significant difference, fostering a sense of unity and purpose within our student community. The funds raised through Caritas Project Compassion will be directed towards impactful projects that touch the lives of those in need. 

This week, students looked at the life of Ronita, who lives with her husband and their two children in Manila, in the Philippines. Ronita left school early to start her family. This could have made it very hard for her to find a job and provide for her family. Thankfully, Ronita heard about a program run by Caritas Australia’s partner, the Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ).  You can watch Ronita's video below.

St Mary's will have a Tapitas Water Wall with a picture of a tap at the top and water droplets cascading down. For each donation of $5, a droplet of water will be added.