Catholic Schools Week

Next week we celebrate everything about the uniqueness of our Catholic schools. Please read below a statement from Ryan Gato from the CSO Religious Education and Spirituality Team.

One of the most remarkable features of our Catholic schools is that they foster communities where individuals can freely express themselves and develop their humanity through education. They stand as lively Catholic communities of faith and learning, committed to delivering excellent education that empowers every child to find purpose and meaning in their lives. Each year, we come together to commemorate such accomplishments through Catholic Schools Week - a time that recognises and celebrates the distinctive qualities of Catholic education. This dedicated week provides a platform for schools to not only showcase their rich and vibrant Catholic identity, but to affirm their integral role within our local communities, highlighting the multitude of learning and faith experiences that occur every day.

Our theme for Catholic Schools Week this year is 'Follow Me!' (Mt 4:19), which draws on Jesus' simple yet profound invitation to walk with Him on a journey of discipleship. This invitation is not a mere call to walk alongside Jesus but a summons to be transformed by Him. It's an invitation to step out of the familiar confines of our personal "boats,"

the routines and securities we cling to, and embrace a life marked in trust, faithfulness, and love. As our schools express their love for God, they are inspired to cultivate a compassionate awareness of the needs of those around us. How we demonstrate love becomes paramount, highlighting that our Christian service puts faith into action.

Within Catholic schools, as we study and emulate Jesus Christ as our model and Teacher, we delve into a deeper comprehension of Christian service. Jesus epitomised serving every individual, irrespective of creed, background, faith, social status, or age, demonstrating the compassionate, courageous, and forgiving character of our loving God through tangible actions. He didn't merely espouse His faith through words; rather, He lived it out, serving as a perfect example for us to follow Him in our own lives.

As we participate in this significant occasion for all our schools, let us be reminded that in following Christ, our lives are radically transformed, infusing them with purpose,

meaning and a deep sense of fulfillment. May all we do in Catholic education continue to strengthen our commitment to serving all those in our communities with humble hearts and generous spirits.

Ryan Gato

Religious Education and Spirituality Team

Furthermore, if you go to our Facebook page you will find messages from students expressing their love and understanding of belonging to a faith based school celebrating our history and the Josephite Sisters' tradition, as well as growing in our own culture and traditions in today's world.

Vincent Cooper

Ministry Coordinator