Good Shepherd School

Faith Education

Opening School Mass

On Thursday, 8 February 2024, we gathered as a community to celebrate the Opening School Mass with our theme of ‘New Beginnings’. Father Andrew commissioned our new school Principal, Staff and Year 6 Leaders. He blessed all school leaders and asked for God’s blessing for the Year ahead. It was a momentous occasion which was followed up with an Assembly presentation of badges for our Year 6 Leaders. 

 

Ash Wednesday 

On Ash Wednesday the whole school attended the Parish Mass. It was a great opportunity for the students to receive the ashes and celebrate Mass together signifying the start of our Lenten journey. 

It was lovely to see the children showing respect when receiving the ashes and participating fully in the parts of the Mass such as the singing and responses. 

 

 

Prayer

During Lent, we can pray for others who are in need. We also use this time to talk to God about what is happening in our lives. 

Some things that we may do are:

  • Pray for the sick and needy.
  • Pray for those who are less fortunate.
  • Pray for those who are suffering in our community and the world.
  • Thank God for all His blessings.
  • Participate in the masses leading up to the celebration of Easter.

 

Fasting

We can give something up to show we are thinking of the sacrifice made by Jesus. 

Some things that we may do are:

  • Stop spending money on things we want, and make a donation to a charity.
  • Give up our favourite food, snack or drink.
  • Stop being negative towards people, and work on having a more positive attitude.
  • Stop getting angry or upset with people, and pray for the courage to forgive them.
  • Give up television to spend more time with family and friends.

 

Almsgiving

We may also decide to share our time with people in need or to do things we wouldn’t normally do.

Some things that we may do are:

  • Donate clothes, books, shoes and food to people in need.
  • Show an act of kindness to a family member each day.
  • Cook a meal for someone who needs it.
  • Volunteer to help at the local church (clean or help around the grounds).
  • Support the work of local charities and see what can be done to help.

 

Thank you to all who participated in the Masses through singing, reading and presentation of the gifts. It was very much appreciated and we look forward to celebrating more Liturgical events throughout the year.

 

Annie McPhee and Vanessa Lamanna

(Religious Education Coordinators)