Our Faith - Religion - Prayer
St Patrick's Church Walcha
For Baptism or Marriage enquiries phone Fr Anthony Koppman 67772129.
Fr Anthony would like to invite parishioners to Sunday Mass 10am.
Term 1 Mass Dates
Friday 28th March (tomorrow): Mass at 9.15am
Reflection
On Tuesday, the church joyfully celebrated the Feast of the Annunciation, a significant event in the Christian calendar. This feast commemorates the moment when the Angel Gabriel appeared to the Virgin Mary, bringing the divine message that she had been chosen to be the mother of Jesus Christ.
The Annunciation, as described in the Gospel of Luke, highlights Mary's faith and willingness to accept God's plan, responding with the words, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." This moment marks the beginning of the Incarnation, when God took human form in the person of Jesus.
Churches worldwide observed the feast with special prayers, readings, and reflections on Mary's role in salvation history. Many communities also gathered for Mass, where the significance of Mary's "yes" was emphasised as an example of faith, humility, and obedience.
The Feast of the Annunciation, traditionally celebrated on March 25th, serves as a reminder of God's love and the power of trust in His divine plan. It is a day of reverence, gratitude, and renewed faith for all who honor this sacred moment in Christian tradition.
Prayer
O God,
who willed that your Word
should take flesh
in the womb of the Virgin Mary,
grant that we
, who believe her to be truly
the Mother of God,
may be helped by her intercession with you.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen
Celebration of the Jubilee Mass at St Mary's and St Joseph's Cathedral, Yesterday
Yesterday, our School and Sports Captains, accompanied by Mr Hyatt, proudly represented St Patrick’s Primary School at a special Jubilee Year Mass. This significant celebration brought together schools and parishes from across the diocese to acknowledge the Jubilee Year, a time of renewal, faith, and unity within the Church.
As part of the Mass, our representatives had the honour of viewing a miniature model of the cathedral, along with reliquaries that will be making their way to various parishes throughout the diocese later this year. These sacred items hold deep historical and spiritual significance, reminding us of the rich traditions and faith that unite our Catholic community.
Mass Tomorrow at 9.15am
Tomorrow, the students and staff of St Patrick’s Primary School will come together to celebrate Mass for the final time this term. This will also be a special occasion as it marks the first Mass with our new parish priest, Fr. Anthony. The celebration will commence at 9:15 am in the school, and we warmly invite all parents and members of our school community to join us in prayer and reflection.
We look forward to sharing this special celebration with our school community and hope to see many of you there.
Project Compassion
The beginning of Lent marks the launch of the annual Caritas Australia Project Compassion Appeal. Donations to Project Compassion support Caritas Australia, the Catholic agency for international aid and development, in working alongside communities worldwide to combat poverty, hunger, oppression, and injustice.
During this Lenten season, we are encouraged to express our compassion through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, supporting those in need through Project Compassion. Recently, each student received a Project Compassion box to collect donations, helping to make a difference for future generations! It you could assist in anyway, it would be greatly appreciated.
Walk for Lent - QR code to donate to St Patrick's Primary School Fundraiser.
As we approach the final week of term, our school community will unite in a meaningful act of solidarity by participating in the Project Compassion walk. This Lenten fundraiser, organised by Caritas Australia, aims to raise awareness and funds to support vulnerable communities around the world.
Project Compassion focuses on empowering individuals and communities to overcome poverty, injustice, and inequality. Through education, health initiatives, and sustainable development programs, Caritas Australia provides vital support to those facing hardship. Our walk will be a symbolic journey, reflecting the steps taken by those we are supporting to build a better future.
We understand that this time of year can be financially demanding for many families, especially with our P&F Easter Egg raffle also taking place. However, we believe that even a small contribution can make a significant difference. Your generosity will directly impact the lives of those in need, helping to provide access to essential resources and opportunities.
We invite all students and staff to join us in this meaningful walk during the final week of term. To make a donation, please scan the QR code below. Your support is deeply appreciated.
Jubilee 2025 Pilgrims of Hope
The Jubilee 2025 is a special year of celebration in the Catholic Church, proclaimed by Pope Francis, with the theme "Pilgrims of Hope." It is a time for renewal, spiritual reflection, and growth in faith.
What is the Jubilee 2025?
A Jubilee Year is a sacred tradition in the Catholic Church, occurring every 25 years, offering special graces, forgiveness, and opportunities for spiritual growth. It is a time of pilgrimage, prayer, and reconciliation. Pope Francis has declared 2025 as the next Jubilee Year, inviting the faithful to focus on hope, unity, and renewal.
Pilgrims of Hope
The theme, "Pilgrims of Hope," encourages people to embark on a journey of faith, trust in God’s promises, and actively spread hope in their communities. The theme emphasises:
- Spiritual renewal – Strengthening faith through prayer, the sacraments, and acts of mercy.
- Unity and solidarity – Bringing people together in hope, regardless of differences.
- Commitment to justice and peace – Encouraging action to help those in need.
Key Events and Activities
- Pilgrimages to Rome and Holy Sites – Millions of Catholics will travel to Rome to participate in special events, including Masses and prayers led by the Pope.
- Holy Doors Opening – The opening of Holy Doors in major basilicas symbolizes entry into God’s grace.
- Acts of Mercy and Service – Encouraging individuals and communities to serve those in need as an expression of faith.
Sacrament Dates for 2025
2025 First Reconciliation: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Years 2 and 3 for Friday 24th October 2025.
2025 First Eucharist: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Year 3 for Sunday 22nd June 2025.
2025 Confirmation: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Years 5 and 6 for Sunday 21st September 2025.
Catherine McAuley
Catherine’s spirituality was centred on the mercy of God…prayer in action…action in prayer.