Catholic Identity

Grandparents Day                                 

Our theme for Grandparents Day this year was ‘a deck of cards’.  

While every card in a deck is unique, each one has an important place and purpose. In much the same way, the grandparents and special people in the lives of our learners each bring their own gifts, wisdom, experiences and stories. Some are encouragers, some are teachers, some are adventurers, and some are quiet supporters, but together they help shape the lives of our learners. Just as a deck is strongest when all the cards are together, our learners are blessed when surrounded by a community of family and friends who love, guide and champion them.  

Monday was an opportunity to celebrate and honour the special role each of you plays in the lives of our young people.  

It was wonderful to hear the wisdom of Peter Mould (Charlie and Immy Henson’s Grandfather) as he used an Acrostic poem to highlight what each letter of ‘Grandparent’ means to others. Such powerful adjectives and visuals were used to portray this message. Thank you Peter/Poppy Pete. 

F.I.R.E. Carriers (Friends Igniting Reconciliation through Education) 

F.I.R.E. Carriers hold an important position at St Mary’s promoting peace, justice and reconciliation for our Aboriginal community and traditional owners, the Yorta Yorta people. At St Mary’s these leaders give the Acknowledgment of Country at all school gatherings and shared prayer opportunities.  

On Wednesday 4th November the Year 4 learners will be led in their learning by Michael Chisholm, CESL Aboriginal Education Lead. Michael will explain the role of a F.I.R.E. Carrier and how the role can be nurtured and developed. Learners will then be asked to complete an application form, expressing their interest in becoming a F.I.R.E. Carrier. 

All Saints Day 

On 1st November, All Saints Day, we honour all saints, both those formally canonised and others who have attained heaven. These saints are individuals who have lived lives of extraordinary faith and dedication to God, serving as role models for each of us. We particularly acknowledge our House Saints: St Brigid, St Joseph, St Augustine and St Anne, as well as St Mary whom our school is named after. 

Socktober 

Today we arrived at school with CrAzy and OdD socks to acknowledge Socktober, an initiative of Catholic Mission to raise funds for those who are disadvantaged in our world. 

Every learner and staff member was asked to bring two coins to school (one coin for each sock) which supported this cause. 

The final tally for each Community will be donated to Catholic Mission: 

Healy Community: $193 

Moore Community: $108 

Brennan Community: $125 

Hayden Community:  $26

World Teachers Day 

World Teachers Day is a day to recognise and celebrate the wonderful staff at St Mary’s. Their care and commitment to our learners does not go unnoticed each day as here, we witness all that they do for each learner. 

May we never grow complacent in all that they do and in each way that they show their care for each and every learner in their space. 

The Sacrament of Reconciliation 

The celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation was another significant milestone in the faith journey of our Year 3 learners. More than 30 learners, together with their families, have committed to this important step in their faith formation. Supported by both parish and school, they have embraced the opportunity to deepen their understanding of God's love, forgiveness, and mercy as members of our faith community. 

Diwali (Festival of Lights) 

Diwali (also called Deepavali) is celebrated by over a billion people across India, Nepal, and the global Indian diaspora. It is a five day festival that celebrates light winning over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and good over evil. This year, it is a festival which begins on Friday 6th November through to Tuesday 10th November. On Friday, learners will gather together for prayer in their Shared space to recognise this date. 

Different communities tell different stories. Hindus often share the story of Rama returning home after defeating the demon king Ravana; Sikhs commemorate the release of Guru Hargobind; Jains honor the spiritual liberation of Lord Mahavira. 

Across all traditions, the central practice is the same: families clean and light up their homes with oil lamps called diyas, share sweets, and wear new clothes. It's a celebration of renewal, generosity, and gratitude. 

Year 5 Caritas Just Leadership Day 

Caritas Just Leadership Day is a day to promote positions of responsibility for interested Year 5 learners as they journey towards their final year of Primary school. This leadership role provides opportunities for learners to promote the work of Caritas Australia throughout the year including events such as Pancake Tuesday, Lenten fundraising initiatives and other opportunities to reach out and support those in need within our community and the wider world. 

Kerry Stone will lead the learning on Friday 13th November as we gather in the Brigidine Centre with neighbouring Diocesan schools from Kerang, Rochester, Tongala, Cohuna and Elmore. 

Interest from 22 learners has been shown for 12 positions which are available. The interview and selection process will begin on Wednesday.  

Please keep these learners in your prayers as they present their understanding of the role. 

Parade of Saints on Sunday 1st November 2026 

In celebration of All Saints Day, St Mary’s Parish have introduced the Parade of Saints in our parish, and this year they have extended the invitation to the St Mary’s learners and families as well. 

Learners are encouraged to come dressed as their favourite saint and participate during Sunday Mass at 9.30am. No need for expensive or elaborate costumes - simple and creative is perfectly fine. 

Mass & Liturgy Timetable 

Colleen Hampson 

Leader of Pedagogy: Catholic Identity