Religious Education

                                                He has Risen - Alleluia, Alleluia!

Parish Bulletin

Pope Leo XIV

In the last newsletter edition, I wrote about the passing of our dear Pope Francis and the wonderful work he led around the world to bring unity and recognition of God's creation over the 12 years of his papacy. In 2020, Pope Francis released his third encyclical — or papal letter — called "Fratelli tutti", in which he urged fraternity and friendship among all people and institutions.

In this newsletter, we celebrate the announcement of a new elected pope, Pope Leo XIV. Like so many in St Peter's Square, we waited for the white smoke from the Sistine Chapel for the announcement of the new pope.

The election of Robert Francis Prevost, who chose the name Leo XIV, as the 267th leader of the Roman Catholic Church marks two historic firsts. Leo is the first-ever U.S. born pope to lead the church and the first pope from the Augustinian order.

We look forward to his leadership and trust in the Holy Spirit that he will continue the work of Pope Francis, his predecessor.

The students have also been eargerly learning and researching informaiton about our new pope. Thanks Ethan for sharing your work.

Sisters of the Nativity

At our last assembly, the Mini Vinnies had the opportunity to present the Sisters of the Nativity, with a cheque for $364 from our fundraising efforts for the repatriation of Sister Julie back to her homeland of Nigeria. Sisters Faustina, Victoria and Grace attended our assembly and were very grateful for the contribution the St Therese's community made in assisting the Sisters of the Nativity and Sister Julie's family.

Sister Faustina gave a lovely speech expressing her gratitude for all the work completed for this fundaraiser. 

Thanks to the Mini Vinnies for leading this initiative and to everyone who contributed to this cause.

Whole School Mass

We will be conducting a Whole School Mass celebrating the Feast of Our Lady Help of Christians, including Catholic Education Week and the Year of Jubilee on Friday 23rd May at 12:15p.m in our school hall. 

During this Mass, we will be having the Juniors from St Agatha's join us for the celeberation whilst our Senior students will travel to St Agatha's Church to celebrate Mass there with the St Agatha's School. We are seeking opportunities to forge a greater relationship with our sister school. Two schools, one Parish united.

We hope you will be able to join us for this special event. 

Family Week & Catholic Education Week

This week we celebrated Family Week with the theme: “Lending a hand to thrive: supporting each other” which highlighted the importance of connection, care, and resilience within families. It’s an opportunity to reflect on the strength of family bonds, reconnect with loved ones, and embrace activities that bring us together.

According to Families Australia, “the aim of National Families Week is to not only celebrate the vital role that families play in Australian society, but to also reflect on the critical role that families play in teaching, supporting and nurturing children as they grow.” The week coincides with the United Nations International Day of Families (15 May), which marks the importance of families globally, especially in light of the challenges many face. 

Today also marks the beginning of Catholic Education Week. Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Sale will celebrate Catholic Education Week from  Friday 16 May – Friday 23 May 2025. This year’s theme is Pilgrims of Hope to coincide with the Jubilee Year of Hope in 2025.

Catholic Education Week is a highlight of the year for our diocese, as schools and parish communities come together to celebrate our Catholic identity and unique mission. 

Sacrament of First Communion

This term, we see the Sacrament of First Communion being offered to those students who have made their Reconciliation and are ready to receive this most sacred Sacrament.

• Reconciliation for the First Communion Candidates:                                            Wednesday 11th June at 7p.m at St Agatha's Church

 

Stay courageous & hopeful.

Michelle Hinds

Religious Edcuation Leader

mhinds@sttcbourne.catholic.edu.au

5996 7525