Catholic Identity

Opening Mass

We were thrilled to share the joyous occasion from our Opening School Mass, where families, students and staff came together to celebrate under the inspiring theme, "Behold I make all things new!” from Revelations 21:5. The ceremony was marked by a special moment as our student leadership team received their badges, symbolising their commitment to guiding our school towards new directions. The student leadership team were eager to collaborate with their peers, fostering growth and developing in their leadership capabilities. We look forward to witnessing the emergence of exciting student-led initiatives that will shape the future of St. Mary's. 

Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday

Shrove Tuesday, often referred to as Pancake Day, gained its roots in the Catholic tradition. The word "shrove" comes from the Old English word "shrive," which means to confess one's sins. In the Catholic faith, Shrove Tuesday is the day before Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of the season of Lent.

Traditionally, Shrove Tuesday was a day for Catholics to confess their sins and receive absolution before the solemn period of Lent began. To use up ingredients like eggs and fats before the fasting period of Lent, people would make pancakes. 

Next Tuesday, our Leadership in Faith students will attend the launch of Caritas’ Project Compassion in the Bendigo Mall. There’ll be free pancakes, entertainment by students from surrounding schools, and the commissioning of school & parish representatives by our Bishop. Back in Inglewood, St Mary’s students and families will be provided with pancakes from 8:30 a.m. onwards then commence prayer at 9:00 a.m. Please come and join us if you can. 

Following Shrove Tuesday, we will transition into Ash Wednesday, a day of reflection and contemplation. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of self-examination, fasting, and prayer leading up to Easter. Our students will have the opportunity to attend Mass, where ashes will be distributed as a symbol of humility and repentance.

As we embark on this Lenten journey, let us encourage our students to embrace the spirit of self-discipline, compassion, and reflection. It's a time for personal growth, spiritual renewal, and coming together as a school community to support one another.