Religious 

Education News

WYD Theme for 2026: 

“Take courage! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33 

2026 Sydney Catholic School Action Theme: 

“Trust in the Lord for true peace and strength 

Each year, a theme is created for Sydney Catholic Schools centred on Pope Leos’ message for youth and the Church’s World Youth Day themes. 

This year’s System Theme - “Trust in the Lord for true peace and strength” - responds to Pope Leo’s chosen Scripture for the 2027 World Youth Day, namely, “Take courage! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

Being a disciple of Jesus has never been an easy task. The Scriptures tell us of the struggles of the first disciples in preaching the risen Christ. They were beset with slanders, imprisonment, scourgings and even martyrdom. Ordinarily, such pressures would deter anyone from wanting to follow Jesus, but the early followers of Jesus were promised help and were aided by the Holy Spirit.  

We as a community are called to come together in faith to trust in God and allow ourselves to trust in him as Witnesses of Christ. The St Francis Xavier community will have many opportunities to reflect this years theme through prayer and liturgies throughout the year. 

Opening School Mass 2026

We warmly invite all parents and carers to join us for our Opening School Mass on Friday, 13 February at 9:15am. 

This special celebration marks the beginning of our school year and is an important moment for our community to come together in prayer and thanksgiving.

During the Mass, we will formally welcome our new staff to the school and offer our blessings as they begin their journey with us. We will also commission our 2026 student leaders, presenting them with their leadership badges as they step into their important roles of service and example.

We look forward to sharing this meaningful occasion with you and celebrating the spirit of unity, faith, and leadership that enriches our school community.

Ash Wednesday

On the 18th of February, we celebrate Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the season of

 Lent. 

Mass will be celebrated at 9:15 am for Years 3-6. All parents and the parish community are invited to attend. 

Students in Kindergarten to Year 2 will take part in a prayer service that will occur at 12:00 pm in the church. All parents are welcome to attend and we hope to see many of you there.

This special day begins our Lenten journey. It is the start of 40 days of prayer, penance and almsgiving as we prepare ourselves to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday. Let us reflect on the words that are shared during this time 

“Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.”

I look forward to seeing you at one of our many upcoming celebrations. I would also like to thank the many members of the St Francis Xavier Community for their words of encouragement and congratulations following my appointment as Acting Religious Education Coordinator

God Bless,

Nick Criniti