Assistant Principal

The Parable of the Prodigal Son

This Sunday’s Gospel from Luke is the famous ‘Parable of the Prodigal Son’. We all know the tale of the selfish son who leaves his family, takes his inheritance, squanders it away and then returns home where he is celebrated by his Father.

But did you know this Parable is a story of unconditional love that a ‘Father’ has for his ‘Son.’

The parable begins..

11 Then Jesus said, “A man had two sons. 12 The younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of the estate that will belong to me.’ So he divided his assets between them. 13 After a few days, the younger son gathered together all he had and left on a journey to a distant country, and there he squandered his wealth with a wild lifestyle. 14 

Did you know….

In Jewish Law at this time, the fact that the son had even asked for his inheritance was reason enough for the father to disown him at once. It was like a son telling his Father - “I cannot wait for you to die”

Then after he had spent everything, a severe famine took place in that country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and worked for one of the citizens of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He was longing to eat the carob pods the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything. 17 But when he came to his senses he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired workers have food enough to spare, but here I am dying from hunger! 18 I will get up and go to my father and say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me like one of your hired workers.”’ 20 So he got up and went to his father. 

Did you know that this son would not have been welcomed back by the Jewish community that he had left. He had spent his money on gentiles (non jews) and this was considered a Jewish crime. This son knew that upon his return he would be publicly shamed and potentially physically hurt.

But while he was still a long way from home his father saw him, and his heart went out to him; he ran and hugged his son and kissed him.

Did you know that the father was watching and waiting and hoping for his son’s return? That father was waiting not to greet his son but to save him. To save him from the shame that awaited him among the community. It was also very shameful for Jewish men to run - again the Father put his love for his son before what was expected of him.

 21 Then his son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ 22 But the father said to his slaves, ‘Hurry! Bring the best robe, and put it on him! Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet! 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it! 

Did you know that it was all of these actions by the father that fully restored the son to not only his family but the Jewish community? The robe, the sandals… but most importantly - the ring. This ring was a signet ring and at this time was used as a seal, this ring allowed a son to transact business on behalf of his family. It was more than a piece of jewellery.

Let us eat and celebrate, 24 because this son of mine was dead, and is alive again—he was lost and is found!’  

How can we forgive this Lent through word and deed?

What’s in a uniform?

A school uniform is more than just clothes for school. A uniform is a symbol of unity, belonging, and pride in our education and professions. At school, we often encourage messy uniforms, untied laces and the like to be corrected, a message I am sure also comes from home. So why is a clean school uniform worn with pride so important?

Wearing a Uniform…

1. Instills Discipline and Responsibility

Ensuring that your child wears a clean uniform daily fosters a sense of discipline and responsibility. It teaches them the importance of personal hygiene and taking care of their belongings, skills that are valuable throughout life. Most high schools have strict uniform policies so in the primary years, this also helps to prepare students for what is to come.

2. Promotes Equality and Unity

A clean uniform helps promote a sense of equality among students. It eliminates fashion and economic differences allowing students to focus on their learning and peer relationships.

3. Enhances School Spirit and Pride

Wearing a clean and well-maintained uniform instills a sense of pride in being part of the school community. 

4. Reflects Personal and School Values

When students wear their uniform with pride, it reflects their respect for themselves and their school. It demonstrates their commitment to upholding the school's values and contributing positively to the school culture.

How can you help as parents?

As parents, you play a crucial role in reinforcing the importance of wearing a clean uniform. Here are a few tips to help you:

• Set a Routine: Establish a daily routine for checking and preparing the uniform, ensuring it is clean and in good condition.

• Lead by Example: Model good habits by maintaining your own attire and personal grooming.

• Positive Reinforcement: Praise your child when they take care of their uniform and wear it with pride.

Thank you for your continued support in helping our students shine!

‘It’s a great feeling for me JUST to put my uniform on…. And be part of MY team.’

Johan Santana