R.E. & Social Justice News
RE NEWS
By Fulvia Gerosolimo
Dear Parents and Carers,
On Thursday, I had the privilege of attending my REL Network gathering where the theme was Signs of Hope. We reflected on what it means to truly live with hope in our hearts and how it shapes our way of seeing the world.
Pope Francis reminds us that “It’s best to not confuse optimism with hope. Optimism is a psychological attitude toward life. Hope goes further. It is an anchor that one hurls toward the future... it’s what lets you pull on the line and reach what you’re aiming for and head in the right direction. Hope is also theological: God is there, too.”
This beautiful image invites us to see hope not just as a feeling of positivity, but as a deep trust in God’s presence and guidance. Unlike optimism, which relies on our outlook, hope is rooted in faith, it anchors us, draws us forward, and reminds us that God walks with us into the future.
As families, may we nurture hope in our children and in our communities, recognising that it is more than wishful thinking it is God’s gift that grounds us in love and courage.
What signs of hope do you notice in your family, your children, or in the world around you?
Every blessing for the week ahead,
Fulvia Gerosolimo
Father’s Day Breakfast gathering
On Sunday we paused to honour the wonderful dads, grandfathers and special father figures who give so much love and guidance in our lives.
We hope all our dads enjoyed a lovely day celebrating them and their special role in our lives.
Last Thursday, we gathered together for our Father’s Day Breakfast. It was a wonderful morning filled with good food, laughter, and connection. Our dads enjoyed a delicious breakfast, sharing conversations and special moments while the children happily engaged with each other.
Father Charles offered a blessing over all the dads, and each dad received a special bookmark and a lucky dip gift to take home.
A heartfelt thank you to the many dads, grandfathers, and special people who joined us to make this celebration so meaningful.
Our sister school - Loyo Elementary, Philippines
As a community, we continue to support our Term Three Social Justice focus: Loyo Elementary School in the Philippines.
A note was sent out on Compass a few weeks ago outlining the requested donations: canned goods (tuna, sardines, Spam), grey lead pencils, tennis balls, toothbrushes, toothpaste, face washers, and basic can openers.
We thank the families who have already donated and warmly encourage others to continue remembering our Loyo family by contributing these items. Every donation, big or small, helps to bring hope and joy to our Filipino friends.
Your generosity and kindness are greatly appreciated.
Visiting Mercy House
Last Monday, our Year 1/2 GW children visited Mercy House Aged Care. The children had been practising reading a picture storybook, and they shared their stories beautifully with the residents. They engaged with such warmth, showing kindness and respect to each person they met.
Experiences like these allow our students to grow in understanding and empathy, learning the importance of giving time and joy to others. It was heartening to see the connections formed between the children and the residents, even in such a short visit.
The visit concluded with the children leading everyone in our school prayer, a special way to finish their time together. It was a truly touching moment of faith and community, leaving both the children and residents with smiles and gratitude.
Blessings for the term break
As we prepare to begin the school holidays, we wish all of our families a safe, restful, and joy filled break. Holidays are a wonderful time to pause, enjoy being together, and create lasting memories as a family.
We encourage families to take the opportunity to visit the church during this time and pray together as a family. For our students who will be receiving the Sacrament of Eucharist next term, these holidays are a beautiful chance to spend quiet time in prayer and attend Mass together, preparing their hearts for this special celebration.
May these holidays be a time of peace, renewal, and God’s blessing for you and your loved ones.
Tuesday 14th October @7.00pm - 8.30pm
Child, Parent / Carer Eucharist Workshop at St Kevin’s Church
Thursday 16th October @10am - 2.30pm
Eucharist Reflection Day
Saturday 25th October @5.30pm
Sacrament of Eucharist - ALL WELCOME