Faith and Mission
Faith and Formation
Year 12 Retreat
Last week, our Year 12 students had the opportunity to step away from the busyness of school life and take time for reflection during their Year 12 Retreat. It was a deeply meaningful experience, allowing them to pause and consider their journey through Year 11, take stock of where they are now, and look ahead with hope and determination toward their HSC year.
In small groups, students explored the biggest influences in their lives and reflected on what values, lessons, and strengths they want to carry with them into the future—their "backpack" for the road ahead. They were also given time and space to consider what they need to leave behind, such as bad habits, self-doubt, or limiting attitudes. In a powerful moment of prayer and release, they wrote these burdens on rice paper and watched them dissolve in water, symbolizing a fresh start.
A highlight of the retreat was the moment when students received letters from you, their parents and loved ones. These heartfelt messages were deeply moving, creating an emotional and unforgettable experience for many. Your words of encouragement and support were a reminder of the love and belief that surrounds them as they take on this important year.
I would like to thank the dedicated team of teachers who assisted facilitate the retreat by working with and getting to know students better. It is a big request to ask teachers to take 3 days away from their families and for this I am truly grateful.
We are incredibly proud of our Year 12 students and the way they embraced this retreat with openness, reflection, and gratitude. We look forward to supporting them on the journey ahead and thank you for your ongoing support in their final year of school.
Opening Liturgy
Thursday, February 13 marked a special moment in our school year as we gathered for our Opening School Liturgy, a beautiful celebration of faith, unity, and new beginnings. We were delighted to welcome Fr. Gayan to the St. Luke’s Learning Community, and his presence made the occasion even more meaningful.
The atmosphere was filled with joyful singing, as our students guided by our talented teachers lifted their voices in praise, embracing the spirit of the new school year with enthusiasm and energy. It was truly heartwarming to see their excitement, as they looked ahead to all the opportunities and possibilities this year will bring—new friendships, deeper learning, and continued growth in faith.
In a moment of reverence and reflection, all students were invited to pray as one community, strengthening our bond as a school family centered in Christ’s love. This liturgy set a beautiful foundation for the journey ahead, reminding us all of the importance of faith, hope, and togetherness.
We look forward to sharing this wonderful year with you and your children, filled with learning, joy, and countless blessings!
YCS
St Luke’s YCS Featured in Catholic Outlook!
Excited to share that the Young Christian Students (YCS) group at St Luke’s has been featured in Catholic Outlook! This recognition highlights the dedication and leadership of our students in living out their faith through action, service, and social justice initiatives.
This feature showcases the incredible impact of YCS, not only within our school but also in the wider community. It serves as an inspiration for other schools to embrace the YCS movement and its mission.
The YCS team is aspiring to bring YCS into the public and community spaces in 2025 and beyond!
Read the full article here:Christian Youth Go Green in Marsden Park & Springwood
From the St Luke’s Parish Community
Sacramental Program:
For families interested in the Sacramental program for 2025 the details are here for you. Please register via the Googleform link of the specific sacrament you wish for your child.
Youth Group:
Join us for an exciting youth group night this Friday, 14th of February, from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm at St Luke’s Catholic College. Enter via the Frontier Avenue entrance and follow the sound of good vibes, real talk, and epic games!
Bring your friends or come solo!
Snacks and drinks will be provided on the night as usual.
Meets fortnightly.
Weekday Masses:
Wednesday at 7.30am
Friday at 6.30pm
Held in the temporary chapel next to the Parish Office( Temporary Office in demountable building at western end of carpark within St Luke’s Catholic College, Frontier Avenue, Marsden Park)
Ash Wednesday Mass
Ash Wednesday Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, 5th March, at 7pm in the Performance Hall at St Luke's Catholic College.
Please note that there will be NO 7.30am Mass on that day.
Lenten Discussion Group:
Discussions focus on the Sunday Gospels.
Starts Thursday, March 6, at 7- 8:00pm at the Parish Office.
All welcome.
Contact
Should you need to contact the St Luke’s Parish Community the contact details follow here:
Website: https://stlukesmarsdenpark.org.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stlukesmarsdenpark
Email: marsdenpark@parracatholic.org Ph: 02 8530 0173 Mobile: 0422 724 160