Season of Creation 1st September to 4th October

Pope Francis on care for creation: ‘God wants justice to reign’ Pope Francis has emphasised the importance of the virtue of justice in a message for this year’s World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. ‘God wants justice to reign; it is as essential to our life as God’s children, made in his likeness, as water is essential for our physical survival,’ he said in the message.

The theme of the 2023 Season of Creation is ‘Let Justice and Peace Flow.’ Pope Francis said in his message that the theme was inspired by the words of the prophet Amos: ‘Let justice flow on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream.’ Regarding public policies, Pope Francis said world leaders participating in COP28, the UN climate change conference at the end of the year, ‘must listen to science and institute a rapid and equitable transition to end the era of fossil fuel’. ‘Let us raise our voices to halt this injustice towards the poor and towards our children, who will bear the worst effects of climate change,’ he said.

Happy Father’s Day

To all the dads, grandfathers, uncles and significant role models in the lives of children out there, we hope you have a great day and are spoilt. It was great to see so many at our Father's Day Breakfast this morning! A huge thanks to our staff for the early start to support the breakfast, and especially to Barb for organising the morning - it's greatly appreciated!

SunSmart

Although the weather is still a bit up and down, the UV levels are rising. As a sunsmart school, at the beginning of September we expect all students to wear their hats when outside. We also encourage parents to ensure that children are wearing sunscreen when appropriate. It's time to find your child's school hat or purchase a new one in readiness for some fine weather ahead!

MACSSIS Survey

Each year, a random group of families are asked to compete an online survey referred to as MACSSIS. The data collected from families, staff and students help paint a picture of the St Mary's School experience and assist in our continual mission to become the best we can be. A selection of families have been randomly selected and will have soon receive login information to complete the survey. Your input would be greatly appreciated.

Drop-off/Pick-up area

The area is causing significant frustration for staff, parents and students that are using the space correctly, as communicated on so many occasions.

Please, for the safety of our children, remember that the loop is for the quick collection of the children. If you need to see someone for a catch up, please park safely and help keep the loop moving smoothly.

Please refrain from calling the children to cross the road by themselves to come to a parked car. It is not safe for the children to cross in this area without a parent to accompany them.

2024 Enrolments

Planning for next year is now underway and knowing who is coming and who is leaving certainly helps us plan better. If you know you are leaving St Mary's at the end of the year, please reach out and let us know and likewise, if you have siblings to enrol, please contact us too! We will explore a range of options for classes and sizes for next year as we do every other year and confirm these towards early-December.

Have a wonderful weekend.

John

St Mary's School, Castlemaine

Respect, Resilience, Responsibility

TERM 3, WEEK 8 · 01 Sep 2023

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