Catholic Identity

Lent: A Time of Renewal

Last Wednesday we began the season of Lent. Lent is a season of reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal as we prepare for Easter. It lasts for 40 days, reminding us of Jesus’ time in the desert, where He fasted and prayed. During Lent, we are called to deepen our relationship with Jesus through three key practices: Fasting, Almsgiving, and Prayer.

Fasting: More than just giving up food, fasting is about making space for God. This could mean reducing screen time, cutting back on unnecessary spending, or letting go of habits that distract from faith.
Almsgiving: Lent is a time to be generous and serve others. You might donate to a charity, support a parish initiative, or simply offer time to someone in need. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Prayer: Deepen your connection with Jesus by setting aside time for prayer each day. This could include reading Scripture, attending Mass, praying the Rosary, or keeping a gratitude journal focused on God’s blessings.

Lenten Events at St. Kilian’s

🚶‍♂️ CARITAS K’s Fundraiser – A whole-school initiative to walk in solidarity with those in need, raising funds for CARITAS Australia. 🙏 Facebook Weekly Prayer – Join us online for a short evening Lenten prayer, bringing our community together in faith.

As we journey through Lent, may these practices and events help us grow in faith and prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter.

Gospel Reflection

2nd Sunday in Lent

Summary

In this passage, Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain to pray. While praying, Jesus' appearance changes—His face shines, and His clothes become dazzling white. Suddenly, Moses and Elijah appear and talk with Him about His mission. Peter, amazed by what he sees, suggests building shelters for them to stay. Then, a cloud covers them, and a voice from heaven says, "This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to Him!" After this, the disciples find themselves alone with Jesus, and they keep what they saw to themselves.

Reflection

This story is known as the Transfiguration, a moment when Jesus reveals His divine glory to His closest disciples. It reminds us that Jesus is truly God's Son and that we should listen to Him. Just like the disciples were amazed, we might also experience moments when we feel close to God, especially when we pray or do something good. It also teaches us that sometimes, instead of reacting quickly (like Peter suggesting to build shelters), we should take time to listen and reflect. How can we listen to Jesus more in our lives? Maybe through prayer, reading the Bible, or showing kindness to others.

Listening to Jesus – God told the disciples, “This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to Him.” How can we listen to Jesus in our daily lives?
Moments of Awe – The disciples were amazed by what they saw. Have you ever had a moment where you felt close to God or experienced something beautiful that made you think of Him?
Trusting God’s Plan – Moses and Elijah spoke with Jesus about His mission. How can we trust God’s plan for our own lives, even when we don’t fully understand it?
Taking Time to Reflect – Peter wanted to take action right away, but sometimes we need to pause and listen. How can we make time to pray and reflect on what God wants for us?
Sharing Our Faith – The disciples kept this experience to themselves at first. How can we share our faith and experiences of God with others today?

Gospel Reading

Luke 9:28-36

Jesus took with him Peter and John and James and went up the mountain to pray. As he prayed, the aspect of his face was changed and his clothing became brilliant as lightning. Suddenly there were two men there talking to him; they were Moses and Elijah appearing in glory, and they were speaking of his passing which he was to accomplish in Jerusalem. Peter and his companions were heavy with sleep, but they kept awake and saw his glory and the two men standing with him. As these were leaving him, Peter said to Jesus, ‘Master, it is wonderful for us to be here; so let us make three tents, one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.’ – He did not know what he was saying. As he spoke, a cloud came and covered them with shadow; and when they went into the cloud the disciples were afraid. And a voice came from the cloud saying, ‘This is my Son, the Chosen One. Listen to him.’ And after the voice had spoken, Jesus was found alone. The disciples kept silence and, at that time, told no one what they had seen.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, Thank You for showing us Your love and reminding us to listen to You. Help us to take time to pray, to trust in Your plan, and to recognise moments when You are near. May we shine Your light in the world by being kind, loving, and faithful. Amen.

Caritas Ks – Walking for Compassion

On Friday March 28, our school community will take part in Caritas Ks, a special fundraising event for Project Compassion. This initiative encourages us to walk in solidarity with those around the world who travel long distances daily for essential needs like food, water, and education.

Students will be walking laps of Lake Weeroona, reflecting on the journeys many people must take every day while raising funds to support Caritas Australia’s life-changing programs.

How can you support?

💙 Sponsor a student – Donations can be made through student fundraising booklets, via the QR code, or on our school’s fundraising website.

🚶 Encourage and cheer on our walkers – Every step helps raise awareness!

Your support will help transform lives and bring hope to communities in need. Let’s walk together for a better world!

Easter Community Market