Catholic Identity

Advent

What is Advent? 

Advent is the beginning of the liturgical year in the Catholic Church. It is a season of hopeful anticipation and preparation for the coming of Christ—both in His birth at Christmas and His second coming at the end of time. The word Advent comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “arrival” or “coming.” 

This season lasts four weeks, starting on the Sunday closest to November 30 and ending on Christmas Eve. It is marked by prayer, reflection, and joyful expectation. 

The First Week of Advent 

The first week focuses on hope — the hope we have in Christ as the Light of the World. The first candle of the Advent wreath, often called the Prophet’s Candle, is lit to symbolize this hope. It reminds us of the prophets, especially Isaiah, who foretold the coming of the Messiah. 

Theme: Hope and Watchfulness Scripture Inspiration: Isaiah 9:2 – “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light.” 

Heavenly Father,  

As we light the first candle of Advent, we open our hearts to Your promise of hope.  

Help us to prepare for the coming of Your Son with watchful hearts and joyful expectation.  May the light of Christ shine in our lives and guide us through the darkness of this world.  Strengthen our faith, renew our hope, and fill us with Your peace.  

We ask this through Christ our Lord. 

Amen 

Year 5 Just Leadership Day!  

Last Thursday, our Year 5 students participated in a Just Leadership Day led by Kerry Stone from Caritas Australia. The session focused on how we, as a community, can make a difference and support vulnerable communities around the world. 

Through engaging activities and discussions, students learned about the importance of justice, compassion, and taking action to create a fairer world. 

A big thank you to our Year 5 students for their enthusiasm and commitment to living out the values of Caritas and Catholic Social Teaching. Together, we can be leaders for change! 

Foundation and Year 3 Information session with Fr. Jake

Our Foundation & Year 3 students were blessed to have Fr. Jake join them for a special session on understanding the different parts of the Mass. He also shared the significance of various sacred artifacts used during the celebration, especially the beautiful garments worn by the priest.

This hands-on experience helped deepen the students’ appreciation of the liturgy and its rich symbolism.

A big thank you to Fr. Jake for his time, guidance, and for making this learning experience so meaningful for our students!

Dave Waters

Catholic Identity Leader