Catholic Identity

We are an Easter people, and Alleluia is our song!’ - Pope Saint John Paul II

Christ is risen! Alleluia!

As a thriving Catholic School community, we have journeyed through the season of Lent with prayer and reflection, and now we once again bear witness to the powerful story of salvation. We have seen so many good works being done in a community and recognise the great initiative of our students in leading these fundraising efforts. Altogether we met our target and raised over $2,100. We also spent the final week of school reflecting on the final days of Jesus’ ministry and these events are featured on our school’s Facebook page.

The Easter Triduum, of course, begins with Holy Thursday, where we celebrate the institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper. Jesus gave us his Body and Blood in the form of bread and wine before giving his life on the Cross. The great gift of the Eucharist is that we don't just remember this monumental gift as a story told over a single weekend of services and Masses. In fact, we bear witness to the Paschal mystery (Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection) at every single Mass that is the real Sacrifice and the Real Presence of Christ. So that is why we are Easter people, as Pope Saint John Paul II reminds us, because at every celebration of the Eucharist, at every Mass, we participate in God’s great act of Salvation.

No wonder we encourage our children to say Alleluia so much during the Easter season!

This Sunday’s Gospel reading reflects on the abundance of life and is the same verse that is used in our Dioceasen Life to the Full Framework. 

“So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” 

John 10:10 is pertinent for us because it sits at the very heart of our mission in Catholic Education. The "Fullness" of Education: Our work at St Joseph’s encompasses the whole child, providing them an opportunity where their whole self can flourish. To have life "to the full" means an abundance that overflows—spiritually, emotionally, and intellectually. Just as the shepherd protects the flock from the "thief," we are called to protect every student in our care, ensuring our school is a sanctuary of safety and grace.

Quick Quiz

Can you name the Church Seasons?

What are the liturgical colours?

• Where was Moses as a child when he was saved by God? Moses was in a (Ba____)

   

• What day indicates the beginning of the season of Lent? (Ash ________)

Preparation for Sacrament of first Holy Communion 

Students in Year 3, with the support of their teachers are busy preparing for the Sacrament of First Holy Communion. This is significant as the students will receive the Body of Christ for the first time. We thank the parents of the students who attended our parent information and prayer evening led by Fr Patrick and we value your commitment. 

If you wish for your child to participate in this Sacrament through reading or Offertory, please contact myself and your child’s classroom teacher. To support your child in this preparation, families are encouraged to discuss the importance of receiving the Body of Christ as spiritual nourishment. The following resource could be beneficial in these conversations with your children. https://www.catholic.au/s/article/What-is-the-Eucharist-Communion 

Update: St Joseph Stained Glass Window

The Parish of St Joseph’s is investing money into a new stained glass window of St Joseph. The total cost of the window is $18 000. To support this, St Joseph’s Catholic School will be hosting a Mufti Day on Friday 15 May 2026. Students are allowed to wear suitable Mufti clothes in exchange for a gold coin donation. 

In addition, a very generous Parishioner has crafted two beautiful patchwork quilts. If you would like to go into the draw to win one of these beautiful quilts, please contact the school or parish office. 

Parents and family members are warmly invited to attend the following school and Parish events. Please note that due to the dynamic nature of school and parish communities, specific class Masses may change at short notice. If you are unsure please contact the school office on the day and we thank you for your understanding.

Mr Alexander Walker

Religious Education Coordinator