Catholic Identity 

May - Month of Mary

Why is May the Month of Mary?

The tradition of dedicating the month of May to Mary, came about in the 13th century. Some say because it was created to replace various pagan cults. The actual reason is the fact that this month is the time when spring is at the height of its beauty (in the Northern Hemisphere).  Spring is also connected with nature renewing itself.  In her way, Mary gave new life to the world when she gave birth to our saviour Jesus Christ.

The link between Mary and the month of May became popular among the members of the Jesuit Order — by 1700 it had a firm hold among their students at the Roman College and a short time later it was publicly celebrated in the Gesu Church in Rome. From there it spread to the rest of the Church.

The pious practice of honouring Mary during the month of May has been especially promoted by the Popes. Pius XII made frequent reference to it and in his great Encyclical on the Sacred Liturgy Mediator Dei. He characterized it as one of "other exercises of piety which although not strictly belonging to the Sacred Liturgy, are nevertheless of special import and dignity, and may be considered in a certain way to be an addition to the liturgical cult: they have been approved and praised over and over again by the Apostolic See and by the Bishops"Devotion to Mary is one an important part of the Catholic identity. 

As our mother she is an example of a committed “Yes” to the will of God. Because of the devotion to her many people ask her for help in the most difficult moments of their life as any child does with his mother.

Year of Prayer

As we continue to move towards the Jubilee Year 2025, we are reminded that this year has been designated by Pope Francis as a 'Year of Prayer'. To help us to enter fully into this year, the Dicastery for Evangelisation has released the document "Teach Us to Pray". This is a fairly easy-to-read document that reflects on the teachings of Pope Francis and the Church about prayer and includes a chapter of "Prayer in the family", which includes some great tips on how to make prayer part of everyday life within the family. I encourage you all to take a look at this document (linked below).

https://www.iubilaeum2025.va/content/dam/iubilaeum2025/foto-sezioni/2024-anno-della-preghiera/insegnaci-a-pregare/pdf/ENG_Sulla-preghiera-A5-76P-SITO.pdf

Gospel Challenge

Each Friday morning, in place of our usual meditation and prayer, we have a 'Gospel Challenge'. During these challenges, we listen to the coming Sunday's Gospel reading and reflect on its meaning. You are invited to join your child's learning group at 8.50am for this time in prayer. The Gospel Challenge goes for roughly 5 minutes.

We would love to see as many parents and family members join us as possible!

Sacramental Program 2024

Sacrament on First Holy Communion (Eucharist) 

This past Tuesday, our First Communion students spent the day preparing for the sacrament by reflecting on the meaning and significance of the Eucharist. They also practised various Mass responses and role played going up and receiving communion. During the day, students also received the Sacrament of Reconciliation in preparation for Eucharist. Finally, they worked on an art piece, including symbols of the Eucharist, which will be part of the display at the celebration of the sacrament. 

In the evening, our First Communion students and their families came together to spend some time in prayer and reflection. To begin, they made 'unleavened' flat bread as an introduction to their learning about the Eucharist. Families shared their thinking about celebrations, the Sacrament and the story of the Road to Emmaus. Thank you to all of our families for coming and joining in the evening. 

Remember...

A reminder that families of First Communicants are asked to attend the upcoming Community Mass - Sunday 19th May, OLSC, 10am

The following students have indicated their intention to celebrate the sacrament this term. If your child is not on this list and you believe/wish for them to be, please contact John as soon as possible. 

Please pray for these students, as well as Nimna D, Joshan F and Nessa D who will also be receiving First Eucharist this year.

Sacrament of Confirmation

As we begin preparations for the Sacrament of Confirmation, please take some time to look over the following information.  The following students have indicated they will be receiving the sacrament this year:

If you believe your child should be celebrating the Sacrament of Confirmation and their name is not on the list above, please contact me. 

Students are preparing for the Sacrament as part of their Religious Education studies this term and next. An important part of this preparation is the participation in a Family Sacramental Evening. This will take place Wednesday 31st July in the OLSC Sports Centre, from 6.30-7.30pm. Attendance at this evening is compulsory, as the program is designed to deepen the faith and understanding of all within the family to allow the Sacrament to be celebrated with reverence and understanding.

The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated on Friday 16th August in the OLSC Sports Centre, at 6:30pm. 

As part of their preparation for the Sacrament, your child/ren will be receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation at school, on Wednesday 31st July as part of their Spirituality Day. We request that all Candidates be present at school that day. 

School Masses

School Masses will take place twice a term this year.  Our celebrations are open to all of those in our school community, and we hope to see as many of our families join us for Mass.  Our next Mass is Friday, 17th May at 12pm in the Sports Centre.  Please find below times and dates of all of our school Masses for 2024. 

Community Mass in 2024

Community Masses have resumed and will take place every third Sunday of the month. Mass takes place in the OLSC Sports Centre at 10am. After each Mass there will also be the opportunity to join in Fellowship, so we invite to bring a plate of food to share. Spread the word!

2024 Community Masses will be as follows:

Follow and like the Wyndham Vale Catholic Community Facebook page to get updates and further information about Community Masses and other events. 

John Dini

Catholic Identity Leader