Religious Education
Feast of St. John Vianney
On Tuesday, August 4th, we celebrated the Feast Day of St. John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests and the inspiration behind our school community.
Known as the Curé d'Ars ("Priest of Ars"), St. John Vianney dedicated his life to serving God and others with extraordinary faith, humility, and compassion. Although he served in a small village in France over 200 years ago, his example continues to inspire Catholics around the world today.
Many people believed that God worked through St. John Vianney in extraordinary ways. Stories of healings, remarkable spiritual insight, and countless lives transformed through his prayers spread far beyond his village. His holiness drew thousands of pilgrims to Ars, seeking guidance, peace, and a renewed relationship with God.
Above all, St. John Vianney reminds us that holiness is found in everyday acts of love, kindness, prayer, and service. His life encourages each of us to live with humility, care for one another, seek forgiveness, and trust in God's love.
May we continue to follow the example of St. John Vianney by living our school values each day—walking with families in faith and knowledge, showing compassion to others, and striving to make a positive difference in our community.
St. John Vianney, pray for us.
Grandparents' Day
Our annual Grandparents' Day celebration was combined with our Feast Day celebration and linked as closely as possible to the Feast Day (July 26th) of St. Anne and St. Joachim, the grandparents of Jesus and the patron saints of grandparents. It was a wonderful occasion, and we were delighted to welcome so many grandparents and special friends to St. John Vianney's School.
The day began with a beautiful Mass. Following Mass, grandparents and special friends joined students in their classrooms for a range of activities centred around happiness and sharing special memories. Our special guests then enjoyed morning tea together.
It was wonderful to see such a large number of grandparents and special friends attend the celebration. Your presence enriched our school community and reminded us of the important role you play in the lives of our students. Thank you for sharing this special day with us and for the love, wisdom and encouragement you give to our children every day.
We look forward to welcoming you back to St. John Vianney's again next year for another memorable Grandparents' Day celebration.
Visit from the Episcopal Vicar
The Episcopal Vicar for the Southern Region of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne, Father Andrzej Madry CR, visited our Year 6 Confirmation candidates on Monday, August 3rd. The students had attended Confirmation Commitment Masses the weekend before the Episcopal Vicar's visit.
Feast of Saint Mary of the Cross (MacKillop)
Saturday, August 8th, is the Feast of Australia's first saint, Mary MacKillop.
Mary MacKillop was declared a saint by Pope Benedict XVI on 17th October, 2010. In January 2013, St. Mary of the Cross (MacKillop) was declared the second patron saint of Australia. Australia now has two patron saints: Mary Help of Christians and St. Mary of the Cross (MacKillop).
Loving God,
Thank You for the example of Saint Mary MacKillop. Help us to follow her example by showing kindness, courage, and compassion each day. May we recognise the needs of others and respond with generous hearts.
We ask Saint Mary MacKillop to pray for our school community and guide us to always live with faith, hope, and love.
Amen
Feast of the Assumption of Mary
On Saturday, 15th August, we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady. This Feast reminds us of our faith that Mary, the Mother of Jesus, “having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory.” The Assumption marks the end of Mary’s life on earth and her return to heaven to be with her Son. Mary’s life was one of faith, trust, and service. She listened to God’s call, cared for others, and followed Jesus with courage and love. Her example inspires us to live with the same openness to God, to show kindness in our daily lives, and to place our trust in Him even when things are uncertain. Just as Mary’s journey led her to be reunited with Christ, we too are invited to follow her example as we grow in faith.
On this Feast day, Catholics give thanks for the blessed life of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and how God honoured and welcomed her into heaven.
Term 3 RE Dates
August 15th Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
August 16th Sacrament of Confirmation 1pm
September 1st Whole School Mass 9:15 am