Religious Education
PENTECOST SUNDAY The birth of the Church
This coming Sunday we celebrate Pentecost Sunday, a very special moment in the life of the Church — the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the disciples of Jesus. Pentecost took place fifty days after Easter and is often called “the birthday of the Church” because it was the moment the disciples were filled with courage to go out and share the Good News with the world. It marks the end of the Easter season.
In the Bible, we hear that the disciples were gathered together when suddenly there was the sound of a mighty wind, and tongues of fire appeared above them. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in different languages so that people from many nations could understand them. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, fear turned into confidence, and the disciples became joyful witnesses of God’s love.
Pentecost reminds us that the Holy Spirit is still alive and active in our world today. The Spirit guides us, strengthens us, and helps us to live as followers of Jesus in our homes, classrooms, and communities. Every time we show kindness, forgive others, help someone in need, or stand up for what is right, we are allowing the Holy Spirit to work through us.
At school, Pentecost is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the gifts of the Holy Spirit — wisdom, understanding, right judgment, courage, knowledge, reverence, and wonder and awe in God’s presence. These gifts help our students grow not only in learning but also in faith, compassion, and service to others.
As we celebrate Pentecost, may we open our hearts to the Holy Spirit and be inspired to bring peace, joy, and love to everyone we meet.
Social Justice News
Caritas Australia have thanked our school for participating in the Caritas Australia's Project Compassion 2026. Our contribution of $423.25 will help to create lasting change for vulnerable communities around the world. We are assisting to build a future where everyone has the tools we need to face poverty, injustice and disaster.
But now we are starting to look alittle closer to home.
You do not have to travel very far from our school gates to see signs of hardship and poverty. Even within a relatively financially secure suburb like Mentone, there are people who struggle financially and need our assistance. As winter approaches, their need becomes even greater.
The Mentone Parish branch of St Vincent de Paul Society has once again asked for our support with their Annual Winter Appeal. This year, we will be approaching the appeal a little differently. Those coordinating the appeal have indicated the types of goods that are most needed by families and individuals doing it tough this winter.
Our Year 6 Social Justice Leaders have prepared empty hampers with labels, and each class will be asked to donate specific items only. Social Justice Leaders from each class will choose the items their class will be responsible for collecting. Imagine if every student in the school were able to contribute just one of these products. Our local St Vincent de Paul Society storeroom would soon have a fully stocked pantry with essential supplies to support many families and individuals throughout the colder months.
This campaign is a wonderful opportunity for our students to live out the values of compassion, generosity, and service, while making a real difference in the lives of others within our own community.
Stay tuned for next week's newsletter which will provide details for the products each class has chosen to supply.
Prayer for Pentecost
Come, Holy Spirit,Fill our hearts with your love.
Guide us to be kind, brave, and faithful each day.
Help us to grow generous heart and
share the joy of Jesus with others.
Amen.
Kathryn Ady
Religious Education Leader