Catholic Identity

Religious Education Leader: Elizabeth Holligan

Reflection by Nick Brodie September Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Pope Francis draws our attention to an interesting aspect of today’s Gospel passage. ‘The first thing Jesus does,’ the Pope notes, ‘is take the man far from the crowd.’ The Pope suggests that in doing so Jesus ‘doesn’t want to publicise this deed he intends to carry out.’ Jesus avoids turning the incident into a self-promotion exercise. His focus remains on the man concerned. On another occasion, the Pope says that this incident shows that Jesus ‘does not want to impress people; He is not seeking popularity or success, but wishes only to do good to people. With this attitude, He teaches us that good is to be done without clamour, without ostentation.’ ‘The lesson we can take from this episode,’ the Pope affirms, ‘is that God is not closed in on himself, but instead he opens himself and places himself in communication with humanity.’ With that in mind, we can reflect on what it means for us. ‘Jesus revealed to us the secret of a miracle that we too can imitate,’ the Pope suggests. By ‘becoming protagonists of“Ephphatha”’ we can be the ones who open the world to Jesus. We should always beconscious of the needs of others. In doing so, we might just open their hearts and minds to Jesus.

General Notices REL 

Social Justice Vinnies Winter Appeal PJ Day Thursday August 29 

Thank you to all the students and families who have supported our College in all areas of Social Justice including our Vinnies Winter Appeal fundraiser – PJ Day - last Thursday. As we look towards a beautiful spring, let us not forget those who have spent the winter cold and without shelter. Any assistance you can give is greatly appreciated. 

Sandhurst Season of Creation

September is World Creation Month, in Sandhurst it is called the Season of Creation. As people of action we enter September committed to act for and care for creation. September 1 was World Day of Prayer for Creation and September is World Creation Month. May our actions be founded in God’s love as we make central to our lives the teachings of Jesus Christ this month. Our School of Wonder Eco Warriors are an amazing example of young people making a stand and Caring for Creation. We ask you to consider what you can do at home to promote and care for creation this month.

St Mel’s Parish Sacramental Program Enrolment Masses Sunday September 15 

St Mel’s Parish Sacramental Program Information Night was on Thursday 29 August. Enrolment Masses are Sunday 15 September at 9.30am or 5pm Mass. If you missed this evening and would like your child to start their Sacramental Journey this year please contact St Mel’s Parish on 5831 2194. This program is suitable for children in Years 3 and above. Times and locations of meetings are listed below.