Education in Faith

The Ascension of the Lord - Year A

This weekend we celebrate the feast of the Ascension of our Lord. The Feast of the Ascension reminds us that Jesus does not leave his disciples behind in fear or uncertainty. Instead, he entrusts them with a mission filled with hope, courage, and purpose. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus gathers the disciples on the mountain and says, “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations… and know that I am with you always.” Even as he ascends to the Father, Jesus promises his constant presence.

The disciples experience mixed emotions. Scripture tells us that “they worshipped, but some doubted.” This is comforting for us because faith does not always remove uncertainty. Jesus still calls ordinary people, with fears and questions, to continue his mission of love in the world. He does not wait for perfect disciples; he empowers willing hearts.

The First Reading from Acts reminds us that the Ascension is not an ending but a beginning. The disciples are told not to stand looking at the sky but to go out as witnesses “to the ends of the earth.” Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to strengthen them for this task. Today, we too are called to be witnesses through our words, actions, kindness, and compassion.

The Responsorial Psalm joyfully proclaims: “God mounts his throne to shouts of joy.”  Psalm 47 celebrates Christ as King, victorious and present among his people. The Ascension is not about Jesus being distant; it is about Jesus reigning in glory and remaining close to us in every moment of our lives.

Saint Paul’s letter to the Ephesians prays that “the eyes of our hearts be enlightened.” The Ascension invites us to see beyond what is immediate and earthly. It calls us to live with hope, trusting that Christ walks beside us and leads us toward eternal life.

As followers of Jesus, we are commissioned to continue his work:

• to bring peace where there is conflict,
• to show kindness where there is hurt,
• to stand up for justice,
• and to share God’s love with others.

The Ascension challenges us to ask: How am I living as a witness to Jesus today?

Discussion Starters

• Why do you think some of the disciples still doubted, even after seeing Jesus?
• What does Jesus mean when he says, “I am with you always”?
• How can we be witnesses to Jesus in our school, family, and community?
• Why do you think the disciples were told not to keep looking at the sky?
• What gifts or talents has God given you to help others?
• How does the Responsorial Psalm help us celebrate the joy of the Ascension?
• What gives you hope when life feels uncertain or difficult?
• In what ways can we continue Jesus’ mission of love and service today?

Sacramental Dates for 2026

Parents please be aware of the following dates and note them in your calendar:

• Grade 2 will receive First Reconciliation in Term 4 on Thursday, 19th November 2026.
• Grade 3 will receive First Eucharist in Term 2 on Saturday, 13th June 2026.
• Grade 6 will receive Confirmation – Term 3 on Saturday, 29th  August 2026.

Reconciliation: baptised Catholics in Year 2.

Eucharist: baptised Catholics in Year 3 or who have celebrated their Reconciliation.

Confirmation: Year 6 Catholics who have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation and Eucharist.

If you have any further questions regarding your child receiving these Sacraments, please feel free to contact me at the school.

God Bless  

Rozeta Ambrose ~ Religious Education Leader

rambrose@sfslynbrook.catholic.edu.au

GRADE 5/6 SOCIAL JUSTICE TEAM – MINI VINNIES

FEAST OF THE SACRED HEART – SFS WINTER APPEAL

Later this term, on Friday June 12th we will be celebrating the Feast of the Sacred Heart. 

To follow in Jesus’ footsteps, Mini Vinnies next action will be to ask SFS families to donate to our Winter Appeal. Items such as non-perishable foods: canned goods, pasta, sugar, flour and toiletries. These items will then be collected by the Hampton Park St Vincent de Paul Conference and the Lynbrook Community Centre to be distributed to the people within our community experiencing challenges.

House baskets have been placed in each Learning Space and our staffroom for students and staff to leave any items they donate. Please ensure your child places their donated item in their House basket as points will be allocated to Houses for each donation.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT HOUSE POINTS

Students will continue to be given points for demonstrating Community Spirit, in particular our PBL Values. Later this term students will also be given points for the items they donate to our Winter Appeal which will assist those in our community who are struggling this winter.

Well done Patrick! However, it’s only Term 2 and the points are so close!

AND NOW FROM MINI VINNIES…..

Giuliana

Mini Vinnies Facilitator 

gfaiola@sfslynbrook.catholic.edu.au