Our Faith - Religion - Prayer
St Patrick's Catholic Primary School, Walcha
St Patrick's Church Walcha
For Baptism or Marriage enquiries by emailing Father Elino Comanda: walchaparish@armidale.catholic.org.au
Fr Elino would like to invite parishioners to Sunday Mass 10am.
Term 4 Mass Dates
Friday 23rd October (tomorrow): Mass (Feast of St John of Capistrano) at 12.00pm
Friday 13th November: Mass and Reconciliation at 12.00pm
Friday 11th December: Graduation and End of Year Mass at 12.00pm
Reflection
Did you know that the Catholic Church officially dedicates the month of October to the Holy Rosary?
This tradition dates back centuries and invites us to take time during October to reflect on the life of Jesus through the eyes of Mary. The Rosary is a special prayer of peace, connection, and reflection—allowing us to pause amidst our busy schedules and contemplate key moments in the Gospel, known as the Mysteries of the Rosary.
Throughout this month, we encourage everyone in our community to take a quiet moment to pray the Rosary—whether that means praying a single decade together at home or taking time for personal prayer for peace in our world.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the gift of Mary,
our Mother, and for the peaceful tradition of the Rosary.
As we journey through the month of October,
help us to pause in our daily lives and reflect on the mysteries of Your love.
May our prayers bring peace to our hearts,
warmth to our homes, and hope to our world.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Whole School Mass, tomorrow, Friday 23rd October
Tomorrow, Friday, 23rd October, all of the students and staff will gather at 12:00pm to celebrate Mass. We warmly invite our entire school community to join us for this special celebration.
Why Do We Genuflect Before Sitting Down at Mass?
Have you ever wondered why we bend one knee toward the altar before stepping into our pew at church?
This sign of reverence is called a genuflection—a word that comes from the Latin genu (knee) and flectere (to bend).
In ancient times, bending a knee was a sign of honour, loyalty, and respect reserved for a king or queen. When we enter a Catholic church, we genuflect because the True King—Jesus Christ—is physically present in the Tabernacle in the Blessed Sacrament (the consecrated Eucharist). The glowing red sanctuary lamp near the Tabernacle lets us know He is there.
Genuflecting is a quiet, powerful body prayer. It serves as a moment to pause, drop our busy thoughts at the door, and whisper in our hearts: "Jesus, I recognise that You are here, and I give You my respect and love."
Next time you step into church, take a deliberate breath, face the Tabernacle, drop your right knee to the floor, and enjoy that quiet moment of connection with God before you take your seat.
OCTOBER - World Mission Month
Focus on Mission- Malawi
Malawi, known as the “Warm Heart of Africa,” is a country rich in culture, resilience, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the shores of Lake Malawi to the rolling highlands and vibrant communities, Malawi is home to people of remarkable strength and hope.
In recent years, however, Malawi has faced severe hardship. Devastating floods have destroyed homes, farmland, and entire communities, forcing thousands of families to flee. Migration into already crowded areas has placed overwhelming pressure on food supplies, schools, healthcare, and employment opportunities. For many families, daily life has become a constant struggle for survival.
One of the most urgent challenges today is food insecurity and access to education for displaced children.
Our Mini Vinnies students are conducting the following fun activities to enjoy next week.
Crazy Hair and Sock Day - Friday 30th October - GOLD COIN Donation
Duct Tape the Staff Member Day!- Friday 30th October- $1 per strip of duct tape!
Catherine McAuley
Catherine’s spirituality was centred on the mercy of God…prayer in action…action in prayer.