Catholic Identity
St Mel's Primary School
"Go forth and set the world on fire"
St Ignatius of Loyola
Walking Country, Faith & Story at Dharnya in Barmah
On the first Monday back this term, we had the privilege of being part of a special faith formation day at the Dharnya Centre, on Yorta Yorta Country within Barmah National Park ~ a place of deep cultural, historical and spiritual significance for the Yorta Yorta People.
Our day began with a Welcome and Smoking Ceremony, before gathering in prayer using the elements of wind, fire, water and land. Through these elements, we reflected on the beauty and sacredness of creation, our Catholic faith, our call to be stewards of our common home, and our continuing journey towards reconciliation.
Throughout the day, we listened to story, explored Scripture and spent time learning on and from Country. A journey aboard the Kingfisher through the waterways gave us time to reflect on water as a source of life ~ for Country and within our Catholic faith through Baptism, renewal and new life.
We then travelled by bus and walked the Flats Walk, listening and learning about the history and cultural significance held within this special place by a Yorta Yorta elder. There was something powerful about slowing down, walking together and allowing Country, story and Scripture to guide our reflection.
It was a beautiful way to begin the term and a reminder that faith formation can happen in many places ~ beside a river, beneath the trees, walking Country and through the stories we share. Experiences such as these continue to deepen the way we bring together Catholic faith, Aboriginal perspectives, care for creation and reconciliation within our St Mel’s community.
2026/2027 ~ Sacrament of Reconciliation:
Adult Faith Evening
On Thursday evening, our Sacramental families gathered in the St Mel’s Parish House Gathering Room for our Adult Faith Development session focused on the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We were blessed to have Maria Weatherill facilitate the evening, leading us in reflection, conversation and faith formation.
Maria reminded us of the important role parents and families have as the first educators of their children in faith. Using artwork as a focal point for reflection, she invited families to look closely at the rich symbolism within our faith story and consider how art can help us see and understand God’s presence in new ways.
Together, we explored Reconciliation not simply as a single act, but as an ongoing journey — one that calls us to both seek forgiveness and offer it to others. We also reflected on the importance of ritual within our Catholic tradition and the ways it helps us make meaning, encounter God and remain connected to one another.
It was a thoughtful and faith-filled evening and a wonderful opportunity for our families to pause, reflect and deepen their own understanding of the sacrament as they walk alongside their children.
Commitment Mass & Cluster Group
This Sunday, 18 October, our Sacramental Candidates and their families will take another important step in their faith journey at our Commitment Mass. During Mass, our candidates will receive a special blessing, along with their Steps in Faith Reconciliation Book to support them as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Our journey then continues on Thursday, 22 October at St Anne’s College, Kialla, for our Cluster Group gathering. Candidates and their families will come together to explore the Steps in Faith Reconciliation Book, share in activities and conversation, and deepen their understanding of this beautiful sacrament.
We are grateful to our families for the commitment they make to walking alongside their children in faith and look forward to continuing this journey together as a Sacramental community.
Mission Month ~ October
One in Christ, United in Mission
Throughout October, we celebrate World Mission Month, a special time when Catholics across the world come together in prayer, solidarity and action, reflecting on our shared mission to bring Christ’s love to others.
This year is particularly significant as we celebrate 100 years of World Mission Sunday, which falls on Sunday, 18 October.
Pope Leo XIV has chosen the theme “One in Christ, United in Mission”, reminding us that although we come from different cultures, communities and backgrounds, we are united in Christ and called to share His love with the world.
In his message, Pope Leo reminds us that mission is something we are all called to participate in. Each of us has unique gifts to share, and even the smallest acts of kindness, generosity and compassion can make a difference.
He encourages us to recognise that mission is, above all, an act of love ~ a love that calls us to care for others, build relationships, seek justice and stand alongside those most in need.
At St Mel’s, this connects beautifully with our diocesan theme, “Seek Peace and Pursue It.” We remind our students that being missionary disciples doesn't necessarily mean travelling to faraway places. Mission begins right here - in our classrooms, playgrounds, homes and wider community. Through friendship, inclusion, forgiveness, generosity and the courage to stand up for others, our students can bring Christ's love to life each day.
As we celebrate World Mission Month, may we continue to recognise that we each have a part to play in creating a world filled with greater peace, hope and love.
One in Christ. United in Mission. Together, we can make a difference.
We began our fundraising for Catholic Missions with our annual Footy Colours Coin Line. Catholic Mission is the Pope’s international Mission agency in Australia. An international organisation that partners with communities, helping them to flourish by supporting grassroots projects, including healthcare, education, and spiritual care.
Actions speak louder than words, let your words teach and your actions speak”
Saint Anthony of Padua
October ~ Month of the Rosary
Each year, the month of October is dedicated to the Holy Rosary, with the liturgical feast of Our Lady of the Rosary being celebrated on October 7th, our first Thursday back Term 4. The Rosary is a powerful and meditative prayer helping us to reflect on key moments in the life of Jesus.
Do you have a set of Rosary beads or prayer beads at home? Perhaps they hold a special story or tradition within your family?
In my own family, the Rosary has always been a meaningful part of our lives. I still remember the first set of Rosary beads I received from my Nan as a child. As a family, we would often gather to pray the Rosary, whether it was on long road trips or at Nan’s house during family visits. The act of praying together not only deepened our faith but also strengthened our bonds as a family.
The Rosary beads pictured here were a special gift from a dear friend who brought them for me from the Vatican in Rome. What makes them even more significant is that they have been blessed by Pope Benedict. These beads, like many others around the world in many religions, are a symbol of faith, love, and tradition, passed down through generations and carrying with them the prayers and hopes of countless people.
This coming October, I invite you to rediscover the beauty of the Rosary, whether in a quiet moment of personal reflection or as a shared prayer with your family. Let us take this time to honour Mary, reflect on the life of Jesus, and strengthen our spiritual journey together.
Feel free to send in your stories and pictures of your Rosary beads or Prayer beads.
Open our HEARTS up to the world & be COMPASSIONATE!
Pope Francis
Upcoming Liturgical Calendar ~ November
In our liturgical calendar, we look to the month of November. In the Catholic tradition, November is traditionally a month of remembrance of those who have died. The month begins with the Solemnity of All Saints on the 1st of November and the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day), on 2 November.
November 1st, is All Saints Day. This day is dedicated to remembering those who have been canonised saints by the Church. Some discussions you might like to have as a family - Who are some saints you know? St. Mel, St. Patrick, Mary Mackillop, Mother Teresa. People are sometimes named after saints, do you know anyone? What qualities might a saint possess - faith and belief in God, love for fellow people and standing up for those who have no voice, compassion, and service to others?
How can we learn from saints? How can we follow in their footsteps?
Who do we know that shows the qualities of a saint in our own lives?
Have a wonderful weekend. Enjoy the time with your families, fill your cups doing all the things that bring you the most joy,
Danae Napier
Deputy Principal / Religious Education Leader
Did you know ~
