Religious Dimension

A prayer for our 'Winter Appeal':

Lord, open our eyes that we may see the deepest needs of your people. 

Move our hands, that we may feed the hungry. 

Touch our hearts that they may bring warmth to those who are sad. 

Let us share our time and possessions with those in need.

Give us the care that strengthens the sick. 

May we all be a source of support and encouragement for each other as we strive to build a more loving society. 

Amen. 

Social Justice @ St Roch’s: ‘Mini Vinnies’ Winter Appeal!

Our Year 5 and 6 ‘Mini Vinnies’ have responded to a call from our ‘St Vincent De Paul, Glen Iris’ Conference.  We are proud to work closely with the President of the Conference, Breck Hilton, who shared how there is a high need for warm blankets and toiletries to support the poor over these cold winter months.

Donations can be given to your child’s classroom teacher by the end of Week 9, Friday 19th June. The posters below are a selection from our Year 5 and 6 students. Keep an eye out for more promotions online and in your child's school bag!

Thank you to Harper Connellan (Yr 6 Community Leader) for supporting this important social justice initiative!

St  Roch’s Sacramental Program: Year 4 First Communion

The students are busy preparing to receive their First Communion on Sunday 14th June at St Roch’s Church.  We are also looking forward to joining Father Gallacher at our Retreat Session on Wednesday 10th June and ask the school community to keep the Year 4 students in your prayers over this special time.

Staff Formation Day @ St Paul's Retreat Centre

Our Staff Formation Day involved our staff joining with all schools in the Parish; St Joseph's, Malvern and St Mary's East Malvern. Father Michael Gallacher led the day, supported by seminarians, Anthony Wright and Patrick Harris.  The day provided a variety of discussions and talks that enhanced staff knowledge and understanding of Catholic Faith and Traditions, and also provided opportunities to consider how we can action our faith in our daily lives as educators and also witnesses to the Gospel.

Anthony Wright shared an inspiring talk on the new initiative of the 'Oratory' of St Philip Neri. Group discussions focussed on how his life is model for us through supporting our students to create positive habits that become virtues to live their life by.

Patrick Harris shared his understanding of the importance of 'prayer' and in particular, how bringing in moments of 'silence' to our lives, helps us to truely listen and talk to God.

Our guest speaker from Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools, Kyle Hoad, then shared with staff, the background of the new trial units of learning that will enhance the way that Religious Education is delivered in Catholic Schools.

St Roch's is an active participant in the trial of these new units of learning across year levels, providing our knowledge, perspective and feedback that will influence the final units for all schools in the Melbourne Archdiocese.

A special thank you to all staff for their participation and engagement - it is wonderful to be part of such a motivated group of educators!

• Year 4 First Communion Retreat Session: Wed 10 June @ 12.00pm
• Year 4 First Communion: Sun 14 June @ 12.00 pm
• SDVP Winter Appeal - due 19th June!

Louise Bolton  

Religious Dimensions Leader