Our Faith - Religion - Prayer
St Patrick's Church Walcha
For Baptism or Marriage enquiries phone Fr Anthony Koppman 67772129.
Fr Anthony would like to invite parishioners to Sunday Mass 10am.
Term 2 Mass Dates
Friday 13th June: Mass at 9.15am
Friday 27th June: Mass at 9.15am
Reflection
This upcoming Saturday, May 24th, marks the Feast Day of Mary, Help of Christians, a significant day of devotion for Catholics, particularly in Australia, where she is honoured as the country's principal patroness. This feast day is a time to reflect on the powerful intercession and maternal care of the Virgin Mary, recognising her as a constant source of help and hope in the lives of believers.
The title "Help of Christians" has deep historical roots, dating back to the 5th century, but it gained particular prominence in the 19th century. Pope Pius VII, imprisoned by Napoleon, attributed his eventual release to the intercession of Mary. In gratitude, he officially instituted the feast day of Mary, Help of Christians, to be celebrated on May 24th.
For Australians, this feast day carries an added layer of significance. In 1844, the Australian Catholic community formally declared Mary, under the title of Help of Christians, as their principal patroness. This deep connection reflects the reliance and trust placed in Mary's guidance and protection throughout the nation's history.
As we celebrate the Feast Day of Mary, Help of Christians, let us be inspired by her example of unwavering faith and trust in God. May we turn to her in our needs, confident in her loving intercession, and strive to live lives that reflect the compassion and love she embodies. On this special day, we give thanks for Mary, our Help, and our guiding star.
Prayer
O Mary, Help of Christians,
we turn to you with trust and love.
Look with favor upon us,
your children,
and intercede for us in our needs.
Grant us strength in our difficulties,
hope in our sorrows,
and guide us always on the path to your Son,
Jesus Christ.
Amen.
Year 6 Practise Religious Education Assessment
A key date for our Year 6 students is fast approaching as they prepare to undertake their practice Religious Education assessment online on Monday May 26th. This online assessment provides a valuable opportunity for students to become familiar with the digital format and the types of questions they will encounter with the actual Year 6 Religious Education Assessment that will be conducted in Term 3.
First Eucharist
Six students will participate in the sacrament of Holy Communion for the first time on Sunday, June 22nd, at St Patrick's Church. They will begin their preparations this Monday. As these students embark on their journey of understanding and appreciating the teachings and sacrifice of Jesus Christ through this sacrament, our thoughts and prayers are with them.
Sacrament Dates for 2025
2025 First Reconciliation: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Years 2 and 3 for Friday 24th October 2025.
2025 First Eucharist: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Year 3 for Sunday 22nd June 2025.
2025 Confirmation: Date has been set for our Catholic students in Years 5 and 6 for Sunday 21st September 2025.
Catherine McAuley
Catherine’s spirituality was centred on the mercy of God…prayer in action…action in prayer.