Principal's News
Courage, Faith, Love
Dear parents and friends of St Agatha's Primary School,
It is so hard to believe that Term One for 2024 is at an end!
We have had such a busy and productive term and I am proud of all that we have accomplished over this time. Since our last newsletter our year 6 students have been to camp, we have had Harmony Day, our Mini Vinnie leaders have led crazy hair day to raise money for Project Compassion, our Year 3 and Year 5 students completed NAPLAN, and we have celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation with the Year 3 students.
I wish you all a faith filled Easter and look forward to what we will achieve in Term 2.
The last day of Term One is Thursday 28th March and students resume on Tuesday April 16.
On the last day of Term 1 - Thursday 28th March at 12:30pm we will hold a prayer celebration for the whole school led by our Year 5 students that is focused on Holy Week. Parents are most welcome to come along. Please sign in at the front desk if you wish to be part of this celebration. If you wish to take your children home after this prayer liturgy you are most welcome to do so. Please ensure you sign your child out if they are leaving early on this day.
What is Holy Week?
Holy Week holds profound significance in the Catholic faith, encompassing the final week of Lent leading up to Easter Sunday. Each day within this week is imbued with rich symbolism and remembrance.
Palm Sunday
Commencing Holy Week is Palm Sunday, marking Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem. It symbolizes the adoration of Jesus as the Messiah, with crowds laying down palm branches as He entered the city.
Holy Thursday
Holy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper, where Jesus shared a final meal with His disciples. It is on this night that He instituted the Eucharist, the sacrament of His body and blood, and washed the feet of His disciples as a powerful act of humility and service.
Good Friday
Good Friday is a solemn day of remembrance and reflection upon the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Despite the sorrow of His sacrifice, it is termed "good" as it represents the ultimate expression of love and redemption, as Jesus gave His life to atone for the sins of humanity.
Holy Saturday
Holy Saturday is a day of waiting and anticipation, reflecting on Jesus' death. It is a time of preparation and prayer as we await the joyous celebration of Easter.
The Easter Triduum: Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday
Collectively known as the Easter Triduum, these three days form the heart of Holy Week, leading us through the Paschal mystery of Jesus' passion, death, and resurrection.
- Holy Thursday: We commemorate the institution of the Eucharist and the priesthood, emphasizing the significance of the sacraments in our spiritual journey.
- Good Friday: This solemn day invites us to meditate on the depth of Jesus' sacrifice and the profound implications of His death for our salvation.
- Holy Saturday: As we await the resurrection, Holy Saturday invites us into a period of introspection and contemplation, emphasizing the transformative power of faith and hope.
Easter Sunday
The culmination of Holy Week, Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, affirming His victory over sin and death. It is a day of joy, hope, and renewal, marking the pinnacle of the Christian faith.
Significance of Holy Week
Holy Week serves as a poignant reminder of the central tenets of the Christian faith: sacrifice, redemption, and resurrection. It invites believers to journey alongside Jesus, reflecting on His teachings, His suffering, and His triumph over death. Through prayer, reflection, and participation in liturgical services, Catholics immerse themselves in the profound mysteries of Holy Week, strengthening their faith and deepening their relationship with God.
Enjoy the holiday period with your children and see you next term!
Michelle Bruitzman
Princi