Faith Formation 

and Mission

Supporting the Vinnies Christmas Appeal

Over the past year, the cost-of-living crisis has intensified, with soaring prices due to inflation placing an enormous strain on families and vulnerable members of our wider community. Many are facing poverty and struggling just to keep a roof over their heads. As this financial crisis deepens, so does the desperation felt by so many. Thinking about Christmas seems impossible for those impacted when they can’t even afford the basics.

This holiday season, we invite you to consider how you might help and offer hope to families experiencing hardship. A meaningful way to do this is through our annual Vinnies Christmas Appeal, a cherished tradition here at Mater Dei. We are partnering once again with the Kooringal Conference of St Vincent de Paul to spread the joy of Christmas to our neighbours who need a helping hand. This year, Vinnies has witnessed firsthand the harsh impact of rising living costs in Australia; hundreds of families in our local community are struggling.

The Kooringal Conference will be distributing hundreds of Christmas Hampers throughout Wagga Wagga. We can support their efforts by donating grocery and personal care items: Non-perishable food items (canned goods, pasta, rice), holiday staples (stuffing mix, gravy, cranberry sauce), snacks (cookies, nuts, dried fruits, biscuits, jelly, cake mix), breakfast items (oatmeal, cereal, pancake mix, maple syrup, custard) or Beverages (coffee, tea, juice). Our Homegroups have already begun responding to this important call, and we encourage our young people to think about the festive food and drinks they enjoy on Christmas Day, considering sharing something similar in their donations.

Donations can be made until Friday, December 13, when we hand all donations over to the Kooringal St Vincent De Paul Chapter. Thank you for your generous support of this worthy cause and for helping bring some holiday cheer to those in need.

The Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Last week, our school community gathered to commemorate the Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This significant day holds particular importance for Nano Nagle and our Presentation community, especially as we mark the sesquicentenary of the Presentation Sisters this year.

The Presentation Sisters have profoundly impacted countless lives, embodying the spirit of Nano Nagle’s vision. As we reflected on this sacred event, we honoured Mary’s legacy and Nano Nagle’s remarkable contributions. Inspired by Mary’s example, Nano founded the Presentation Sisters, recognising Mary as a source of protection and guidance. Her daily Rosary prayers instilled a deep devotion to Mary in her Sisters.

Guided by the light of Jesus Christ, Nano was inspired to respond to the needs of the poor, leading to the rapid growth of the order. With unwavering faith, the Sisters held on to the vision of Jesus, confident in their spiritual and material provision.

In the Presentation tradition, the lantern’s light symbolises our commitment to meeting the world's needs through presence and action. During Nano’s time, the lantern was a beacon of hope for those who saw it approaching. The Feast of the Presentation held a special place in Nano’s heart, as it was the feast day of her boarding school in France. On this day, she welcomed new novices into the Congregation. In 1805, following Nano’s passing, the Sisters officially adopted the name “Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary” in honour of Mary’s powerful intercession.

Today, we continue to honour Mary, Nano Nagle, and the Sisters, who continue to carry the lantern forward, demonstrating compassion and commitment to education and service. Let us reflect on their legacy, and may we be inspired by their example as we strive to live our lives with faith, hope, and love.

Year 9 Girls’ Community Building Experience 2024

Our Year 9 girls recently participated in a transformative community-building experience at Feathertop Chalet in Harrietville, Victoria. This enriching journey took place from November 18 to 20, 2024. Themed "Lord, Hear Me," this experience offered our young women a unique opportunity to connect with their inner selves as they explored their spiritual lives through reflection and meditation. They strengthened bonds by engaging in outdoor challenges and collaborative activities, which helped them develop strong friendships and teamwork skills. 

Additionally, they could discover their strengths and abilities by stepping outside their comfort zones. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the Australian bush, they learned to appreciate the wonders of creation. This experience was more than just a getaway; it was an investment in our girls' futures. By providing a supportive environment, we aimed to empower them to become confident, compassionate, and spiritually grounded individuals. The experience left a lasting impact on our Year 9 girls, shaping them into the leaders of tomorrow.

Mrs Pauline Streckfuss  |  Acting Leader of Faith Formation and Mission