Faith and Mission

Prayer

God of Justice and Mercy,

We come before You with hearts full of compassion

for our brothers and sisters experiencing poverty.

In Your infinite mercy and love,

we ask You to look upon them with kindness

and provide for their needs.

Grant them hope in times of despair,

strength in moments of weakness,

and comfort in their suffering.

Bless our efforts and inspire our hearts with Your love,

so that we may continue to be instruments

of Your grace and peace.

May our actions reflect the light of Christ

and bring solace to those we serve.

Lord, help us all to see Your face in the faces of the poor

and to respond with generosity and empathy.

Teach us to live out the Gospel message of love and service,

and to work together to create a world

where every person can live with dignity and hope.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

(Source – James Hodge, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Queensland)

Term 3 - St. Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal

On Thursday, the school was a sea of colour, patterns, and flannelette for our Pyjama and Casual Clothes Day, held to launch the annual St. Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal.  Students and staff brought in a gold coin donation to help support local families doing it tough this winter.

It also marks the launch of our annual "Tinnies for Vinnies" House competition! 

During assembly last Wednesday, Old Collegian and St. Vincent de Paul delegate, Mr Bryan Roberts shared how vital these donations are to people living in our community.  Mr Roberts explained that in Hamilton alone, over twenty people on any given night are either sleeping on the streets or couch-surfing due to homelessness.

Winter Appeal:  Small Donations, Big Difference

Winter can be an exceptionally difficult time for vulnerable members of our community. Following our recent assembly with St. Vincent de Paul, we are calling on our school community to lend a helping hand.

We ask parents and guardians to encourage their children to bring in a non-perishable food item for the St. Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal.  Even a single tin or box can help ensure a warm meal for someone in need.

Suggested non-perishable items:

• Canned soups, stews, and vegetables

• Pasta, rice, and meal sauces

• Cereal and long-life milk

• Spreads (jam, peanut butter, Vegemite)

• Canned fruit and baked beans

Donations can be dropped off at Reception, given to Pod teachers, or left in the designated House baskets in the Chapel.

The House with the most donations by the end of Term 3 wins!

Year 11 Retreat in Halls Gap

From Monday, 20 July to Wednesday, 22 July, our Year 11 cohort, comprising 93 students and 12 staff, travelled to the beautiful surroundings of Halls Gap for the retreat.

The theme of the retreat was "Choices of the Heart."  It was a meaningful time for our students to step away from the daily routine of the classroom and come together as a cohort to bond.  The retreat provided a wonderful opportunity for students to reflect on their future dreams and think about the practical steps needed to turn those aspirations into reality.

A highlight of the retreat was the “Saint I know” session.  In a heartfelt reflection, Fr Shane spoke of his father as a guiding light, a man whose profound devotion to his family and tireless efforts to support his children earned him the title of a saint in Fr Shane’s eyes. Students were invited to reflect on a 'saint' in their lives, someone who has made a profound impact on their journey.  Fr Shane celebrated Mass on the final night, during which several students shared heartfelt reflections.  The retreat concluded with an all-time favourite, writing affirmations.  Filling the room with love, gratitude, and kindness, it was a truly wonderful way to bring our time together to a close.

Mrs Lia Mailes

Faith and Mission Leader