RE NEWS

STAFF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 

On Tuesday, we were privileged to welcome Father Harry Dyer OMI, who spoke to our staff about the inspiring work of the Oblates. His presentation highlighted the incredible missionary efforts of the Oblates around the world—reaching out to the most vulnerable in the farthest corners of the globe.

It was a powerful reminder of our deep connection to the Oblates through both our school and parish. This legacy continues to shape our identity and inspires us to live out their mission by serving and supporting our local community.

SCRIPTURE REFLECTION

Luke 13:22-30

It is difficult to enter the kingdom of God.

This week’s gospel passage picks up one of the major themes that runs throughout the gospel of Luke: the message of salvation is not reserved exclusively for the Jews, but is for all people; Jew and Gentile alike. A number of times in this gospel, the writer makes a point of having Jesus relate this controversial and fairly unpopular message to his audience.

 Today’s gospel makes clear that to gain salvation, you have to do more than just show up! Like those knocking on the locked door and claiming friendship, we can’t just turn up at the last minute and expect to be received. Salvation – entrance into the kingdom of God – belongs to those who accept the message of Jesus and act on it for the rest of their lives.

The gospel makes plain to the Jewish people of the time that unless they accept the message of Jesus and act upon it, they will get a terrible shock ('weeping and grinding of teeth') at the coming of the kingdom. 

Those who believe in name only will find themselves looking in from the outside and will see the greatest prophets in the kingdom while they themselves are denied access. To further make the point, they are told that people from east and west, north and south will be welcomed into the feast of the kingdom. References to people from the four points of the compass always indicate people from other lands – non-Jews. Jesus tells his audience that people who are faithful to his message, even though they may be Gentile, will gain salvation before anyone who thinks they deserve it because of their birth or title. The kingdom must be earned through faithful effort, not by just turning up and claiming to be a believer.

by Greg Sunter 

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

The Sacrament of First Holy Communion is for children in Grade 4 this year who attend SJV school and for other children from the parish attending other schools. Also for children who missed out last year.  

Enrolments Close: Friday 22 August 2025

All enquiries contact the Parish Office -9546 3831 

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