Catholic Identity

Catholic Identity Reflection

Religious Education Leader - Elizabeth Holligan

4th Sunday of Lent year B

We start our prayers with the ritual Sign of the Cross. As we ask for God’s blessing in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, our ritual action also represents God’s all-embracing love for us, from top to bottom and side to side.

We are a blessed and loved creation of God.

Each of us complete with the Holy Spirit present in us.

The Holy Spirit links us regardless of background, race and religion.

We are all one family, created in God’s love, created in God’s image.

The readings this week from the second book of Chronicles, St Paul’s letter to the Ephesians and John’s Gospel, bring to life God’s love for us, even when we do not respect the loving gift of our bodies or the loving gift of those around us and even the loving gift of Christ. God continues to be there for us, giving us a second chance to know and love and bear witness to God’s love in this world. We are reminded to use these gifts, the gifts shared with us through the Holy Spirit, to be God’s love in the world today. To not be selfish and restrict who we care for, who we help, who we welcome as members of God’s family.

This Sunday, the 4th Sunday of Lent is one of the two Sundays in the Church’s year the colour rose is used. It is also the only day during Lent when we are permitted to have flowers on the altar. This is to remind us that even during a time of repentance and preparation there is always reason to rejoice and hope. To remember we are a blessed and loved creation of God. May we remember this Lent to love those around us, those not so close and those in need. Please support Project Compassion, be the love in the world God has created us to be.

Pope Francis 2019 Laetare Sunday

Notices:

St Mel’s Parish Sacramental Program Confirmation & Eucharist

St Mel’s Parish Sacramental Program for Confirmation and Eucharist commenced with the parent information evening last week followed by the candidates commitment Masses last Sunday. Session 1 was held at St Mel’s Primary School on Thursday this week, session 2 will be a session that takes place with the family at home. Session 3 will be at St Anne’s College Thursday 21 March commencing at 6.30pm. Any questions about the program can be directed to St Mel’s Parish office, phone 5831 2194.

The parish-based Reconciliation program will take place later in the year.

Caritas Project compassion

During term 1 Lent we ask for your support in our fundraising for Caritas.

Students have been running activities including the sale of Zooper Doopers and Swimming Sprots BBQ. Each pastoral group and grade has a Project Compassion box for coin and note donations. Caritas also welcomes online donations. Please see the details following. Please give generously for all future generations.