R.E. News
In Term 4, our RE units focus around the concepts of care for Creation, stewardship and respect for the human person. In years 5 and 6 the students have been exploring the concepts of human dignity and considering ways in which people care for and respect human life. They have become aware of the life and work of Mother Teresa and how she showed love, care and compassion for the marginalised and the poor. They have read the biblical account of Moses receiving the Ten Commandments and have interpreted the commandments in their modern-day world. The students are learning about the Principles of Catholic Social Teaching, with a particular focus on “Care for God’s Creation” and “Dignity of the Human Person.”
Feast of St Martin de Porres
On Friday 5th of November we will be celebrating the feast day of St Martin de Porres, the patron saint of our school. Martin was born at Lima in Peru. His father was a Spanish knight and his mother was an Indian slave from Panama who had been set free. Martin wanted to give himself to God and asked for admission to a Dominican Convent. Martin proved to be a wonderful religious brother, and before long, he began to work miracles. He was known to go through locked doors to help the sick. He cured so many sick people that everyone in the city of Lima would ask for Brother Martin when there was sickness. He would go to them all. He loved all people as his brothers and sisters.
This kind-hearted saint was also very good to animals. Although he was so famous in Lima, St. Martin always had a very humble opinion of himself. His name for himself was, in fact, "Brother Broom." When Martin died on November 3, 1639, this beloved saint was carried to his tomb by bishops and noblemen who wanted to honour the humble and holy brother.
St Martin de Porres is the patron saint of mixed-race people, barbers, innkeepers, public health workers, and all those seeking racial harmony.
On Friday, we will begin the day with a Prayer Liturgy, which the students will be able to watch in their classrooms. During the morning session, before lunch, students will participate in activities focusing on the life and work of St Martin de Porres.
Children’s Prayer to St Martin de Porres:
To you, Saint Martin de Porres, I lift up my heart and petitions. Please, show people of every race and colour the path of unity. Help us to be meek and humble, just like you. We ask you to pray to our Father in Heaven, that His kingdom may come soon, so that we may all serve Him together. Amen.
All Saints’ Day
All Saints' Day is a holy day of the Catholic Church celebrated annually on November 1. The day is dedicated to the saints of the Church, that is, all those who have attained heaven. Although millions of people may already be saints, All Saints' Day tends to focus on known saints in the Catholic Church.
Prayer for All Saints
Thank you, God, for the tremendous sacrifices made by those who have gone before us. Bless the memories of your saints. May we learn how to walk wisely from their examples of faith, dedication, worship, and love. Amen.
Remembrance Day
On November 11th, Australians will pause in silence to remember those who have died in war, and to pray for victims of attacks and cruelty throughout the world. This is a day to pray for peace, to think about what we are doing as individuals, as a community and as a country to bring God’s peace into the world. As a school community, we will have a short Prayer Service on Thursday 11th November (at 11 am) dedicated to Remembrance Day.
Remembrance Day Prayer
God of love and peace, we gather to pray for those who gave so much for their country. May we always remember their sacrifices and their gifts of freedom and peace. We remember those who have died as a result of war or conflict, soldiers and civilians. We give thanks for their lives and acknowledge their sacrifice. We ask that the peace of Christ will end all violence and that all may live together in harmony. Amen.
Margaret Cronin
Religious Education Leader