Principal's Message 

Prayer for Reflection 

Lord, Thank You for the example of St Andrew. 

Help me to be faithful in the small things, 

knowing You see them for great purpose. 

May I always keep my gaze firmly on You and Your love, 

for this will give me strength when I feel unseen. 

May I be a quiet light within my school community, 

gently guiding others towards hope, truth, and joy. 

Lisa Hughes

Meditation and Mindfulness

This term, our teachers had the pleasure of learning from Lisa Hughes, a Religious Education Consultant with extensive experience working with MACS, during Closure Day last Friday. Lisa shared insights on meditation and mindfulness, highlighting their benefits for calmness, focus, and inner peace.

Christian Meditation

Meditation has deep roots within Christianity, tracing back to the Desert Fathers and Mothers. Practices like Lectio Divina, developed and refined by the Benedictines, continue to guide modern believers in contemplative prayer. Christian meditation helps us:

• Let go of daily drama
• Feel calm and relaxed
• Grow in confidence and clarity
• Become kinder and more compassionate

The 3 S’s of Meditation

• Silence – allowing our minds to rest
• Stillness – finding calm in body and soul
• Simplicity – returning to what truly matters

As the Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us, “Contemplative prayer is the simplest expression of the mystery of prayer” (CCC 2713). Meditation connects us to our deepest selves, to God, and to the goodness within.

Research, including work by Dr Noel Keating, has highlighted the broader benefits of meditation, such as:

• Physical wellbeing and mental clarity
• Emotional balance and resilience
• Spiritual growth and authentic living

Meditation Supports Our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) Program by:

• Encouraging self-regulation
• Building emotional awareness
• Improving focus and engagement

Through these practices, staff are better equipped to create a positive, respectful, and effective learning environment. Meditation is not only a spiritual practice but a practical tool that enriches our school community.

Regards

Brian Martin

Principal