Education in Faith
...remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive’
Free Will in the Catholic Faith
Our Year 3/4 students have been learning about the concept of Free Will in our Catholic Faith. As the Bible says:
"In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps..." Proverbs 16:9
Our students have been busy exploring what this really means! We understand that humans are given more choice than any other animal, and that each day is filled with opportunities to make decisions. The Bible teaches us that this is God placing his trust in us, he shows us how we should act, and then gives us the freedom to choose our own path.
Students thoroughly enjoyed exploring real-life examples of this idea. They looked at the story of Spanish marathon runner Iván Fernández Anaya, who competed in a race in 2012. As the race neared the finish, Iván was in second place when the runner ahead of him mistakenly thought he had already finished.
As the lead runner slowed down and checked his watch, Iván had a clear chance to run past him, win the race, and claim the prize! Instead, he chose a different path. He gently patted the runner on the back, pointed toward the finish line, and encouraged him to keep going.
Students loved discussing how Iván still finished second, but made a compassionate choice that supported his fellow runner. They reflected on how his actions show that sometimes our decisions have a massive impact on those around us.
Further to this the students looked at another story of Free Will in the Bible from the Gospel of Luke. In this story, Jesus heals ten men who are sick with leprosy. All of the men are filled with joy as they begin to feel better, but only one remembers to turn back and thank Jesus. The other nine continue celebrating, with gratitude perhaps sitting quietly at the back of their minds.
Our students reflected on what they might call out to the nine healed men as they rushed past.
Students will continue to reflect on how we can ensure our Free Will is used to uplift others, as we strive to make the world a better place!
Commissioning Mass
Last weekend a range of school staff joined our Sunday School teachers and Parish team for the 2026 Commissioning Mass. In what was a lovely occasion, our parish community prayed for our school year. Staff from both our school and the Parish also remade their commitment to teaching this year. Please see this prayer below!
Will you allow God to shape your daily life, so that you are a good role model of the Catholic faith to those in your care? I will.
Will you uphold the dignity of each child or adult you teach? I will.
Will you be careful with your preparation and
faithful to your prayer and to the Eucharist? I will.
Lord God, in your wisdom and love your surround us with the mysteries of the universe. In times long past you sent us your prophets to teach your laws and to bear witness to your undying love. You sent us your Son to teach us by word and example that true wisdom comes from you alone.
Look upon these Catechists, Leaders, Staff and Teachers. Let them strive to share their knowledge with gentle patience and endeavour always to bring the truth to eager minds. Grant that they may follow Jesus Christ, the way, the truth and the life, for ever and ever, AMEN
Thank you!
The generosity of our school community has been on full display, and we cannot thank you enough for supporting our social justice initiatives!
As you’ll see on the Harmony Day page, vital funds were raised for Caritas Australia through our fun activities.
Thank you also to everyone who has popped coins into their class Caritas box and contributed to our Gratitude Gallery. Your kindness is making a real difference!
We have a responsibility to support those in need, and our beautiful community continues to rise to this challenge at every opportunity.
God Bless!
Tim O'Mahoney
Education in Faith Leader