FAITH MATTERS

MRS ALISON WRIGHT - DIRECTOR OF FAITH & MISSION

Year 12 Retreat

We finally made our way to the beautiful town of Halls Gap for Year 12 Retreat this week, and what a beautiful way to end a very busy Term 1.

Our Year 12s participated in many sessions about character traits, important people in their lives, change and challenges, and balance and hope. Many wonderful conversations were had and further connection between each other was made. Their parent letters from home were well received and our sharing circle was raw and emotional for some. I was heartened by the way these young people supported, cared and showed empathy towards one another over the three days of this Retreat. I sincerely thank them for their participation and willingness to be vulnerable at times. I truly hope this becomes a lasting memory of their final year at secondary school.

I would also like to thank Mrs Haley, Miss Salvo, Ms Gomez, Mrs Box, Mr Joyce and Mr Waterson for being willing to attend and support our students on Retreat.

Easter Triduum

As I write this report we are starting the most special and sacred time for the Church - the Easter Triduum, which is the three days leading up to Jesus’ resurrection.

We remember Holy Thursday, the Lord’s Supper, as being the first celebration of the Eucharist. Jesus broke bread and drank wine with the disciples, asking them to do the same as a memorial of him. Jesus washed the feet of his disciples during this meal. He did this to demonstrate to them how they are to serve others through selfless love.

On Good Friday we remember Jesus’ death on the cross. It is a solemn day that calls for fasting. Stations of the Cross are recited on this day.

Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus - his victory over sin and death and salvation for mankind.

I would like to share with you a reflection on this season of Easter from the Sisters of St Joseph:

Like the disciples we are being called to walk together into the joy of Easter, to know that in pain and suffering, doubt and sadness, failure and defeat, the Risen Jesus walks with us.

Easter is a time to celebrate the gift of being missionary disciples, to be carriers of the good news that Christ is indeed risen and living among us. Christ has no hands but ours, no feet but ours, for we are an Easter people.

I wish everyone in our community a blessed Easter. Enjoy your time with family and friends!