Religion and Parish News
Christmas Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, On this joyful Christmas season at the close of our school year, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, born as a little child in Bethlehem.Thank You for the laughter, learning, and friendships we've shared in our classrooms, for teachers who guide us, families who love us, and the wonder of discovering Your world.
Infant Jesus, wrap us in Your peace and light our hearts with hope.Help us to grow in kindness, like the shepherds who hurried to see You, and to share Your love with those who feel alone or in need. Bless our holidays with rest, family time, and moments of quiet joy by Your side.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us as we end this year and look forward to new beginnings. May the star of Bethlehem shine brightly in our lives, leading us closer to You.
Amen.
End of Year and Saint Francis Xavier Feast Day Whole School Mass
On Wednesday, December 3, we gathered in the Church to celebrate Saint Francis Xavier's Feast Day and our End-of-School Mass. It was lovely to have so many families and parishioners join us. The students then enjoyed morning tea in their House groups and also enjoyed games organised by the Year 6 students. The staff enjoyed a morning tea and it was extra special having Fr Abmar, Fr Antony and Sr Regina join us.
Vinnies Christmas Appeal
The spirit of Christmas is alive at St Xavier’s. Our community has been very generous in donating Christmas goodies and it was fun having everyone wear their favourite Christmas shirt today. Thank you for your generosity in helping to bring Christmas joy and hope to people in our local community.
Sacrament of Confirmation 2026
Next year the Sacrament of Confirmation will be on Saturday 28th of March at 9am. The reason for Confirmation happening on a Saturday is, the Bishop will be in Gunnedah Friday night to attend the Deb Ball and would like to be in his own parish on Sunday as it is Palm Sunday.
2026 St Xavier’s School and St Joseph’s Parish Gunnedah Sacramental Program
Confirmation
Saturday 28th March, 9am, St Joseph’s Church Gunnedah
Parent Night Thursday 26th February, 5:30pm, at St Joseph’s Church
Rite of Enrolment Saturday 28th February (6pm) OR Sunday 1st March (8:30am), at St Joseph’s Church Gunnedah or Sacred Heart Boggabri
Rite 2 Reconciliation Thursday, 26th March St Joseph’s Church at 6pm (Week 9, Term 1)
Retreat Day Friday, 27th March, St Xavier’s Primary School (Week 9, Term 1)
Confirmation to meet with Fr Abmar / Bishop Murphy at 11:40am (TBC). BBQ lunch shortly after 12:30pm.
First Eucharist
Sunday 28th June, 8:30am, St Joseph’s Church
Parent Night Thursday 28th May, 5:30pm, at St Joseph’s Church
Rite of Enrolment Saturday 30th May (6pm) OR Sunday 31st May (8:30am), at St Joseph’s Church Gunnedah or Sacred Heart Boggabri
Retreat Day Friday 26th June, St Xavier’s Primary School (Week 10, Term 2)
- Rite 2 Reconciliation 11.40am St Joseph’s Church, BBQ lunch shortly after 12:30pm.
Altar Serving:
Commissioning Mass - Saturday 8th August (Boggabri) and Sunday 9th August (Gunnedah)
Parent Information and Session 1 - Thursday 23rd July - 5:30pm, at St Joseph’s Church
Session 2 - Thursday 30th July - 5:30pm, at St Joseph’s Church
Session 3 - Thursday 6 August - 5:30pm, at St Joseph’s Church
First Reconciliation
Tuesday 22nd, 6pm, St Joseph’s Church (Week 10, Term 3)
Parent Night Thursday 27th August, 5:30pm, at St Joseph’s Church (Week 6, Term 3)
Rite of Enrolment Saturday 29th August (6pm) OR Sunday 30th August (8:30pm), at St Joseph’s Church Gunnedah or Sacred Heart Boggabri
Retreat Day Tuesday 22nd September, St Xavier’s Primary School (Week 10, Term 3)
Parish Bulletin
P A R I S H CH R I S T M A S C E L E B R A T I O N
All parishioners are warmly welcome to attend our annual parish Christmas Celebration BBQ.
When: After 6pm Mass Saturday,13th December
Where: Parish Hall
