Catholic Identity
Leader: Katie Rasmussen
Catholic Identity
Leader: Katie Rasmussen
A big THANK YOU to our Catholic Identity leaders: Jacob, Colman, Caleb, Riann, Andrea and Amelie. They have done an amazing job this year, leading our school wide positive behaviour program!
This team have been led and supported by Miss Ras. A big THANK YOU to Katie for all of her work and leadership in this space.
As we enter the festive season, it is important to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas in the Catholic faith. Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who came into the world to bring peace, hope, and salvation to all people.
The story of Jesus’ birth is a beautiful and profound moment in history, recorded in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. Over 2,000 years ago, Mary and Joseph travelled to Bethlehem, responding to a census decree from Caesar Augustus. With no room available in the inns, they took shelter in a humble stable. It was there, in the simplicity of a manger, that Mary gave birth to Jesus, the Saviour of the world. Angels announced His birth to shepherds in nearby fields, proclaiming, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14). The shepherds, filled with awe, went to worship the newborn King. Wise men from the East also followed a star to find Jesus, bringing Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, recognising Him as the promised Messiah.
This sacred event, often called the Nativity, reminds us of God’s incredible love and humility. The birth of Jesus in a stable highlights that God chose to come to us in the most humble way, offering hope and salvation to all, regardless of status or circumstance.
In modern times, the celebration of Christmas is filled with traditions that echo the joy and wonder of Jesus’ birth. The giving of gifts reflects the offerings of the wise men and reminds us of the greatest gift we have received—Jesus Himself. The twinkling lights, carols, and decorations symbolise the light and joy that Jesus brings into our lives. Gathering with family and friends mirrors the sense of community and love that Jesus’ birth inspires.
At St. Patrick’s, we encourage all our families to take a moment this Christmas to reflect on the Nativity story. As you gather around your Christmas tree or attend Mass, remember the humble stable in Bethlehem and the love that brought Jesus into our world. A beautiful depiction of the Nativity is also on display in the school office, serving as a reminder of the reason for this joyous season.
On behalf of all the staff at St. Patrick’s, we wish you a joyful and peaceful Christmas. May your homes be filled with love, laughter, and the light of Christ. Let us celebrate together the reason for the season, remembering Jesus as the heart of Christmas. Have a safe and blessed holiday season, and we look forward to seeing you in the New Year.
Merry Christmas!
Here is the forth instalment on Graduate Outcomes broken down:
Here is the third instalment on Graduate Outcomes broken down:
Here is the second instalment on Graduate Outcomes broken down:
This is the installment from last newsletter:
Catholic Social Teaching (CST) is rooted in Scripture, formed by the wisdom of Church leaders, and influenced by grassroots movements. It is our moral compass, guiding us on how to live out our faith in the world.
The CST principles which inspire our work are:
Our faith calls us to love God and to love our neighbours in every situation, especially our sisters and brothers living in poverty. Following in the footsteps of Christ, we hope to make present in our unjust and broken world, the justice, love and peace of God.