St. Joseph's Newsletter

Catholic Identity

Year 5 – FIRE Carrier Program

Last week, our Year 5 students took part in the FIRE Carrier Commissioning Ceremony at the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry in Thornbury. FIRE stands for Friends Igniting Reconciliation through Education. The program is deeply connected to our Catholic faith, as it calls us to live out the Gospel values of justice, compassion, and respect by walking alongside our First Nations brothers and sisters.

 

During the ceremony, the students reflected on the symbols of Aboriginal spirituality and how these connect with our Christian story. They learnt about the importance of reconciliation, the beauty of Aboriginal art and storytelling, and the role of FIRE Carriers in keeping this mission alive in our school community.

 

Here are some excerpts from the students’ reflections:

 

  • “What stood out to me most was the stained-glass window which depicted the crucifixion of Jesus on a special tree, surrounded by the sacred eagle Bunjil, and the Rainbow Serpent. It reminded me that our ancestors are always watching over and protecting us.” – Nicholas

     

  • “The commissioning ceremony was really cool. They said, ‘May the fire be in your ears, your mind, your eyes, your mouth, your heart and your hands. Welcome to the FIRE Carrier.’ It was a really good feeling to be a part of something that we can make a difference with.” – Benjamin

     

  • “We learnt about the Opening the Doors Foundation, which helps Aboriginal kids with shoes, uniforms, books and technology so they can go to school. It made me realise how important it is to support others.” – Daniel

     

  • “It felt very special to be one of eight people to be a FIRE Carrier. I’m proud to hold the fire and help raise awareness so everyone feels welcome and treated fairly.” – Alexander

     

  • “The commissioning ceremony was the best part and made me feel welcome into doing this job as a FIRE Carrier myself.” – Xavier

     

As a school community, we are proud of our new Year 5 FIRE Carriers who will continue to share the light of reconciliation and the spirit of Christ in our classrooms, liturgies, and daily lives.

 

Family Faith Information Night

 

This week our Year 6 families gathered for the Sacrament of Confirmation Family Faith Information Night. We were blessed to have Fr Gallacher join us, sharing his wisdom and encouragement as our students prepare to receive this important Sacrament. A warm thank you also goes to our Year 6 teachers and Mrs Marinelli for supporting the evening and walking alongside families in this journey of faith.

 

One highlight was the “Gifts I See in You” flame activity, where families shared with one another the unique gifts and strengths they see shining in their child. The joy and pride were clear—smiles lit up the room as students heard affirming words spoken over them. This was a powerful reminder of the Holy Spirit at work in our lives, calling us to share our gifts in service of others.

 

Faith in action is at the heart of Confirmation. As a school, we continue to support our Year 6 students to grow in confidence, courage, and compassion as they live out the Gospel in their everyday lives.

 

Miss Donnella DeVisser

Religious Education Leader