Religious Education

Ash Wednesday, and the beginning of Lent

Yesterday was Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the liturgical season of Lent. On Ash Wednesday, all of the students at SJV were invited to receive a cross of ashes on their foreheads. The ashes come from the palms used at the 2025 Palm Sunday Mass. Everyone is invited to receive a cross, as it symbolises that ‘from ashes springs new life.’ For our students, this means, ‘being the best version of themselves.’  Lent is a sacred season in the Catholic Church that invites us to pray, reflect, and prepare our hearts for Easter.

The students participated in a beautiful paraliturgy yesterday. Special thanks to Fr. Joe, Mr Schinck, Mr Lane, and the SJV School Captains for the role each played in creating a special and meaningful service for both students and staff.

Shrove Tuesday

Shrove Tuesday always falls on the day before Ash Wednesday, the start of Lent.  

This special day is a time for reflection and preparation, reminding us to embrace kindness, gratitude, and renewal as we journey toward Easter. Traditionally, it’s a day to reflect, make amends, and use up rich foods before Lent begins. Our pancake feast comes from the need to use up ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk—foods often avoided during Lent. Over time, this simple act of making and sharing pancakes has become a joyful way for our community to gather and prepare our hearts for the season ahead. 

A huge thank you to all of the wonderful parent/grandparent/special friend helpers whose efforts made Tuesday so special! You are very much appreciated.

Prayer for Lent

Loving God,

Help us to work together

to share what we have

so that everyone has what they need.

Help us to build a better world

where each of us can become the best person we can be.

Amen

Coming Soon!

This Lent, SJV is participating in Project Compassion's Big Water Walk. Thissupports people in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific who walk long distances every day to collect clean water. Our walk, and every dollar we raise, will create lasting change and help empower people to lift themselves out of poverty.

More details to come in the next couple of weeks.

Key Dates for Term 1 2026

Tuesday, March 24th Whole School Mass 9:15 am