Living with Strength and Kindliness
Advent Reflection: Hope in the Waiting
As we light the first candle on the Advent wreath this week, we are reminded that this season is one of hope. Advent marks the beginning of a journey of preparation and promise. It is a time to slow down and lean into the quiet expectancy that surrounds the coming of Jesus into the world.
In this first week of Advent, we are invited to reflect on what hope looks like in our lives. Where are we being called to trust in God's promise of renewal? How can we be bearers of hope to others?
The Coolamon was traditionally used by First Nations people as a vessel for gathering food, and carrying babies. At the beginning of advent the coolamon is placed upside down at the foot of the prayer focus as a sign of waiting for the birth of Jesus.
The Advent wreath itself is a symbol of hope. Its circular shape reminds us of God’s love, and the growing light of the candles reflects the increasing joy we feel as we draw nearer to Christmas. Each week, as the light grows, we are reminded that hope expands.
In our front offices this week we have placed both an advent wreath and the coolamon.
As Advent begins, let us take time to pause and notice the signs of hope around us—moments of kindness, glimpses of beauty, and acts of love. Let us also commit to being signs of hope for others.
Prayer
Loving God,
As we begin this Advent season, help us to carry the light of hope in our hearts.
May we trust in Your promises, even in times of uncertainty and waiting.
Guide us to be beacons of hope for others, sharing Your love and joy in all we do.
Prepare our hearts to welcome Christ anew, the source of our hope and salvation.
Amen.
May this Advent be a time of hopeful waiting and joyful preparation for you and your community.
Lee Pethybridge
College Leader - Faith and Community
Meet our new Living Justice Living Peace Leader
We would like to congratulate Ella Hickey on her appointment as our College Living Justice Living Peace Leader for 2025. Ella will facilitate our service and awareness raising activities in line with the Living Justice Living Peace Charter.
Reverse Advent Calendar
It’s that time of year again!
As we prepare ourselves for the season of Advent, a major component of enacting the Kildare Ministry value of hope here at St Joseph’s College is offering charity to those less fortunate than ourselves.
This year, the St Joseph’s College community will once again be assisting Echuca Neighbourhood House to create Reverse Advent Calendars.
Instead of opening a door to reveal a chocolate each day, students and their families are invited to donate non-perishable goods, hygiene products or Christmas items, which will then be distributed by Echuca Neighbourhood House to families in need in our local community.
Items can be delivered to student services or through LMs from Monday 25 November to Monday 2 December.
We thank you for your support.
Matthew Butler
Living Justice Living Peace Leader