Catholic Identity

ASH WEDNESDAY LITURGY

Last Wednesday we gathered as a school to celebrate the beginning of Lent with an Ash Wednesday Liturgy.  During the Liturgy we ‘packed away’ the word Alleluia, which will not be used again at Mass until Easter.  Everyone received the ashes on their forehead as a reminder to fast from something we enjoy, pray more and give to others over the coming 40 days.  These ashes had been blessed by Fr Albert and were made by burning last year’s Palm Sunday palms.  In class we will now be using a purple prayer cloth during our morning prayers.

PROJECT COMPASSION

Spanning across the six weeks of Lent each year, Project Compassion brings thousands of Australian schools, parishes and supporters together to raise funds for Caritas, our Catholic Aid Agency. These much-needed funds help alleviate poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity in the most vulnerable and marginalised communities in the world.  Each class has their own Project Compassion Box, where students can put their donations.  This is a terrific opportunity for children to use some of their pocket money to give to others in the world who are in need of some support.

SHROVE TUESDAY

Shrove Tuesday or Pancake Day is the day before Ash Wednesday.   The word ‘Shrove’ comes from the old word 'shriving', which means to listen to someone's sins and forgive them. On this day traditionally Christians would go to confession in preparation for Easter.  The tradition of eating Pancakes comes from people using their leftover eggs, milk and sugar in preparation for the fasting element of Lent.

Through the efforts of our Student Voice Team, warm Pancakes were delivered to everyone in the school.  Thanks especially to Paula and the Office staff along with the Year 6 students who prepared and delivered this treat.

St Andrew's Parish Take Home Sheet

St Andrew's Parish Alpha Program

St Andrew's Parish is gearing up for our 1st ALPHA at ST. ANDREWS which will start on 21 Feb 2024.

Alpha is an opportunity where we can invite non-Catholic and non-Christian friends to explore big questions in life. This is open to everyone however the slots are limited. Please see the details of the program below.

PRAYER

Next Sunday at Mass we hear the story of the Transfiguration of Jesus.  In the Gospel it describes Jesus climbing to a high point on Mount Tabor with his disciples Peter, James, and John. While Jesus prayed upon the mountain, his appearance was changed by a brilliant white light which shone from him and from his clothing.

The word “transfiguration” signifies a change of form or appearance.  This is what happened to Jesus during this event: His appearance changed and became glorious.  According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church,

 “Christ's Transfiguration aims at strengthening the apostles' faith in anticipation of his Passion: the ascent on to the 'high mountain' prepares for the ascent to Calvary.”

Likewise we hear the story of the Transfiguration each Lent, to help us grow closer to Christ as we prepare to remember his passion, death and resurrection.  Let us pray then that we see the Light of Christ shine upon us as we walk through Lent this year.