Catholic Identity
St Joseph’s Primary School
NAIDOC Week
The Next Generation – Strength, Vision & Legacy
This week, our school community proudly celebrated NAIDOC Week, giving thanks for the rich cultures, histories and enduring contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
As a Catholic school, we are called to be people of truth, healing, justice and reconciliation. Through the teachings of Jesus, we are invited to listen with open hearts, walk together in hope and recognise the God-given dignity of every person. NAIDOC Week reminds us that reconciliation is not simply something we learn about, it is something we are called to live each day through our words, actions and relationships.
A highlight of the week was our Smoking Ceremony, where students and staff gathered respectfully to learn about this significant Aboriginal cultural tradition. This meaningful experience invited us to pause, reflect and deepen our appreciation of the world's oldest living culture. It also reminded us of our commitment as a Catholic community to walk alongside Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in truth, justice, reconciliation and action, continuing to build respectful relationships grounded in faith and understanding.
Our Year 3B students reverently led our NAIDOC Week Liturgy. Through prayer, Scripture and song, they reminded us that God calls each of us to be peacemakers who stand for justice, respect the dignity of every person and work towards healing. As we reflected together, we were encouraged to continue listening, learning and walking gently together on the path of reconciliation.
A heartfelt thank you to Ms Birch and Ms Conlon for their dedication in preparing the Year 3B students for this beautiful liturgy. Their guidance and encouragement enabled our students to confidently lead our school community in prayer and reflection.
May we continue to answer Christ's call to love one another, celebrate the gifts of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and be a community that walks together in faith, hope and reconciliation.
Miss DeVisser
Religious Education Leader