Catholic Identity

The Month of the Rosary 

October is known in the Catholic Church as the Month of the Rosary. The Rosary is a special prayer that helps us reflect on the life of Jesus and Mary. Through the mysteries of the Rosary, we remember important events such as the birth of Jesus, his teachings, his death, and his resurrection. The Rosary is not just about saying prayers; it is about taking time to be close to God, to listen, and to reflect. 

The Church dedicates October to the Rosary because of the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary on October 7. This devotion has been part of Catholic life for centuries and continues to be a way families and individuals can grow in faith together. 

Ways to Celebrate at Home: 

• Pray one decade of the Rosary as a family before bed or at the dinner table. 
• Create a quiet prayer space at home with a rosary, candle, or image of Mary. 
• Pray the Rosary while on a walk, using the beads to guide reflection. 
• Listen to a recording of the Rosary or follow along with an app or online video. 
• Encourage children to make their own rosary beads or draw a picture of Mary. 

The Rosary is a simple but powerful prayer that can bring peace and remind us of God’s presence in our everyday lives. 

Gospel   Matthew 22:15–21

This Sunday's Gospel challenges us to reflect on what truly matters in our lives and where we place our priorities.

When Jesus is questioned about paying taxes to Caesar, He reminds us that while we all have responsibilities in our everyday lives, we also have a greater responsibility to God. Our time, our talents and the way we treat others are all opportunities to live out our faith.

As a school community, this message is particularly meaningful as we enter our final term at St Mary's. Much of our attention is understandably focused on the practical responsibilities associated with closing our school. There are decisions to make, tasks to complete and challenges to navigate. However, Jesus reminds us not to lose sight of what is most important: the people around us and the love, kindness and compassion we show one another. Buildings may close, routines may change and our school community may eventually follow different paths, but the values we have nurtured at St Mary's will continue to live through our students, families and staff.

As Principal, I am reminded that our greatest responsibility is not simply to manage the day-to-day operations of a school, but to ensure that every child feels valued, every family feels supported and our faith remains at the centre of all we do.

This week, I encourage our families to reflect on a simple question: Are we giving enough of our time, care and attention to the people and things that truly matter?