Family and Faith

Advent Jesse Tree

This year for our Advent preparation we will focus on the Jesse Tree tradition. The Jesse Tree tradition is roosted in Isaiah 11:1 and represents the family tree or genealogy of Jesus. Each family will receive a booklet of scripture passages that teaches us about Jesus' ancestors. Each day during Advent, you are invited to read the passage from scripture together as a family, and attach a 2D ornament to your Christmas tree at home if you have one.  A copy of the ornaments  (which need to be coloured in) and the booklet of scripture passages have been sent home with the eldest child in each family. Please check your child's school bag for this fun filled 'take home' family Advent initiative. If you want to get social, I would love to see a photo of your family engaging in this initiative. Just email me at lucille.gravina@syd.catholic.edu.au

Christmas Cards for Little Sisters of the Poor

Thank you to all the families who have already decorated, written and returned the Christmas Cards for our neighbours at Little Sisters of the Poor. For those who have not returned cards yet, please do so by Monday 9th December 2024. Thank you. 

Parish Carols - Sunday 8th December 2024

Don’t forget to mark the Parish Christmas Carols in your calendar. It is set to be a special afternoon. Come see the StMM’s voices perform with the OLSH school choir this Sunday.

Christmas at the Cathedral - 12th December 2024

Book your seat on the FREE bus service that will operate outside OLSH Church to see the opening night of Christmas at the Cathedral on Thursday 12th December 2024. It is always an amazing light show. There are also food stalls and gift stalls in the St Mary’s Cathedral forecourt. Scan the QR code to register.

Brekky Van 2025

Our Sydney Vinnies Brekky Van shifts for 2025 have been confirmed. If you would like to join the amazing group of volunteers who run this service, please reach out to me via email lucille.gravina@syd.catholic.edu.au and I will forward you more details.

StMM Padlet

Don’t forget to check out the StMM Padlet where you will find information about various activities and initiatives as well as special interest stories.

StMM Padlet

Vinnies Wishing Tree 2024

As per last year, the St Margaret Mary’s Parish will accept gifts for the Vinnies Support Centre in Redfern The Vinnies Warehouse in Redfern allows those experiencing financial hardship to select a gift or experience for their loved one(s) for Christmas. See the flyer below for more details.

Playgroup 

Our Playgroup children last week learnt all about Advent, the different candles on the Advent wreath and what they represent. They also made their very own Advent wreath! 

Advent Prayer

As we embark on the season of Advent, a time of waiting and preparing, let us focus on family and the message of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Advent Prayer for Families

Heavenly Father, your son Jesus is your greatest gift to us, a great sign of your love. 

Guide us as we strive to walk in that love together as a Family this Advent.

As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, bring us closer to each other and to your son. 

Give us the grace and strength we need every day. Help us to always trust in you.

Come Lord Jesus, lead all people closer to you. 

Come and dispel the darkness of our world with the light of your love.

Amen

Wishing all our families the hope, peace, joy and love of the new born Jesus this Festive Season and a restful summer break.

Go gently, every blessing

Ms Lucille Gravina

Family Educator