R.E. & Social Justice News

RE NEWS

By Fulvia Gerosolimo

Dear Parents and Carers,

Sunday’s Gospel reminded us that God is the God of the living, and that His love reaches beyond what we can see or understand. Life can be challenging, family pressures, work stress, or personal struggles can leave people feeling fragile and alone. The Sadducees tried to trap Jesus with a clever question, but He points instead to what truly matters: love, life, and care for one another.

Sometimes, the most important thing we can do for those around us is simply check in. A child who seems withdrawn, a work colleague who is feeling overworked or vulnerable, a spouse feeling unnoticed, or a friend quietly carrying a burden, all of them benefit from someone noticing, asking, and caring. St. Paul gives us this guidance:

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” (Ephesians 4:2)

Checking in doesn’t require solving every problem. It’s about presence, attentiveness, and kindness. A simple question, a listening ear, or a gesture of support can remind someone that they are not alone, that they are seen and loved. These small acts mirror God’s care, showing that all people, especially the fragile, are alive in His love.

This week, make it a habit to check in on those around you. Notice who might be struggling, ask how they are, and offer your time, understanding, or encouragement. In these moments, your love becomes a reflection of God’s love….gentle, patient, and life giving.

Every blessing for the week ahead,

Fulvia Gerosolimo

The Season of Advent

This Sunday, we begin the season of Advent, the season of preparation and hope as we wait for the coming of Jesus. Advent invites us to slow down, notice the small blessings around us, and remember that God is always with us, even in the busiest moments of family life.

Advent is about watchfulness and expectation. We are called to prepare our hearts, not just our homes. In the Gospel, Jesus reminds us:

“Stay awake, for you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matthew 25:13)

For families, this can mean creating little moments of reflection and kindness each day: lighting an Advent candle, sharing a prayer at mealtime, or noticing someone in need and reaching out to help. It is a season that calls us to be gentle, patient, and attentive, to those around us, especially those who are fragile or struggling.

Advent is a reminder that hope can grow even in ordinary, everyday moments. By preparing our hearts and practicing small acts of love, we join in the waiting for Christ’s coming and make the world around us a little brighter in the meantime.

Let us reflect on Christmas…

As I take my daily walks, I’ve noticed many homes already adorned with Christmas decorations. Even more delightfully, some of my students have shared that their families already have the Christmas tree up at home! The bright lights, sparkling baubles, and tinsel are cheerful and beautiful, but what is the meaning behind all this? Is it just about having the “best looking tree,” or is there something more profound for our families, especially our children?

For us, the Christmas tree can be a symbol of hope, light, and God’s presence in our homes. It’s more than decoration; it’s a way to show our children that we are preparing our hearts and our homes for Jesus’ coming. Each ornament can remind us of God’s love, family traditions, and the joy of giving.

So as we put up our trees this year, let’s do it with intention. Invite your children to help, tell stories about what each decoration means, or even create new ornaments together. Let the lights and the baubles be a reminder of Christ’s light in our lives. Most importantly, let it be a way for your family to slow down, connect, and focus on what really matters…love, hope, and togetherness.

Christmas isn’t just about a tree or decorations. It’s about making your home a place where God’s love shines, year after year, generation after generation.

Term Four Social Justice focus

This year, our Christmas Social Justice focus will be supporting the Missionary of Charity Sisters in preparing food hampers for families in need across Melbourne. This is a meaningful way for our school community to reach out with generosity and compassion during the Christmas season.

We are inviting our St Kevin’s families to contribute by donating one, two, or more non-perishable food items and/or Christmas food items. These donations will be used to create hampers that the Missionary of Charity Sisters will personally distribute to families who are doing it tough at this time of year.

Your support, whether big or small, will help make a real difference to a family’s Christmas.

Further details about this initiative, including suggested food items and collection dates, will be sent out via Compass later this week.

Monday 8th December @12.45pm

Mass for the Immaculate Conception of Mary-ALL WELCOME

Monday 8th December @6.30pm

Carols and Year in Review - ALL WELCOME

Wednesday 10th December @6pm

Grade 6 Graduation Mass followed by Dinner for families

Tuesday 16th December @9.15am

End of year Mass - ALL WELCOME