St Kilian's School Newsletter

Catholic Identity  

 

Gospel Reflection 

The Holy Exaltation of the Cross 

Summary 

John 3:13–17 reveals the heart of God’s plan: Jesus came not to condemn the world but to save it. Just as the Israelites found healing when they looked to the bronze serpent in the desert, we find life when we look to Jesus lifted up on the cross. God’s love is for the whole world, and through Jesus, that love offers us forgiveness, healing, and eternal life.

 

Scripture (John 3:13–17, NRSV) 

“No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. 

For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. 

Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.” 

Reflection 

This passage shows us the heart of God: love, not condemnation. Jesus points to the cross as the place where God’s love is revealed most clearly. Just as the people of Israel looked at the bronze serpent and found healing, we look to Jesus “lifted up” and discover life. 

John reminds us that God’s purpose is not to punish but to save. Sometimes we imagine God as strict or harsh, but here we see a God who acts first in love. Think of a teacher who encourages a struggling student—not by scolding them for mistakes, but by giving them extra time, patience, and belief that they can succeed. That’s a glimpse of the way God loves us: choosing mercy and hope over judgement. 

The challenge is whether we will trust this love enough to let it shape our lives. When we do, we begin to live with courage, kindness, and hope—and we start to see others with the same love God sees in them. 

  1. How does it feel to know that love and encouragement can bring life and hope, rather than judgement or criticism? 
  2. What difference does it make when someone chooses to support rather than condemn? 
  3. Who around you needs to experience God’s love through your words or actions? 

 

Prayer 

Loving God, thank you for sending your Son, not to condemn us, but to save us and give us life. Help us to remember that your love is bigger than our mistakes, fears, or doubts. Fill us with your Spirit so we can share your love with others in simple, everyday ways. May we live with hope and courage, knowing that we are held in your love forever. 

Amen. 

 

Season of Creation – September 

Each year from 1 September to 4 October, the Catholic Church around the world celebrates the Season of Creation – a time set aside to reflect on God’s gift of creation and to commit ourselves to caring for our common home. This season invites us to pray, learn, and act together for the environment, inspired by Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’. 

 

At school, we are marking this special season in a number of ways: 

  • Diocesan Mass – Our leaders will join schools across the Diocese to celebrate Mass together. 
  • Unit Masses – Each learning unit will gather for Mass with a focus on creation. 
  • Prayer and Classroom Activities – Students will take part in prayers, reflections, and learning activities that highlight care for the earth and sustainable living. 

 

Families are encouraged to join in this season at home. Some simple ways include: 

  • Taking a walk together and noticing the beauty of nature. 
  • Planting something in the garden or caring for a pot plant. 
  • Praying as a family in gratitude for creation. 
  • Making small choices to care for the earth, such as reducing waste, saving water, or turning off lights. 

Together, as a school and community, we can use this Season of Creation to deepen our awareness of God’s presence in creation and take steps towards a more sustainable future. 

 

Sacrament of Reconciliation 2025 

This term, preparations will begin for the Sacrament of Reconciliation at St Kilian’s Parish. Reconciliation is an important step in the faith journey of our students, offering them the opportunity to experience God’s love, forgiveness and mercy in a special way. 

The program is led by the St Kilian’s Parish Sacramental Team and supported by the school. Families have received information about the program, including the enrolment form, schedule and requirements. Forms may be returned to either the school office or the parish office. 

 

Key Dates: 

  • Information Night: Tuesday 8 October, 6:30–7:15 pm 
  • Commitment Masses: Saturday 11 October (6:30 pm) or Sunday 12 October (10:00 am) 
  • Session 1: Tuesday 15 October, 6:30–7:15 pm 
  • Session 2: Tuesday 22 October, 6:30–7:15 pm 
  • Session 3: Tuesday 5 November, 6:30–7:15 pm 

  • Celebration of the Sacrament: Wednesday 12 November, 6:30 pm 

     

If you are interested in your child being part of the program or would like further information, please contact me at mpodosky@skbendigo.catholic.edu.au or see me in person in the office. 

We look forward to supporting our children and families as they prepare for this special sacrament.