Keep on Caring

Food for Thought & Prayer

Dear Parents,

I encourage you to read through the below attachment, a great document from the Centre for Theology and Psychology at Melbourne School of Theology (MST).

Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic – Some insights from Theology & Psychology

Although written for a Christian audience, I do recommend it for all our community. The article may provide an opportunity to consider God’s invitation through Jesus, to accept His forgiveness, protection, love, life and hope.

Friends, if there is anyone who wants to find out more about following Jesus, please contact our CHAPLAIN, Warwick Grant (wgrant@standrews.vic.edu.au), myself or any staff member you connect with.

Blessings,

Mrs Catriona Wansbrough

Principal

Five Ways to Boost Wellbeing During Isolation Take 2!

1. Set boundaries around conversations about COVID-19 or watching the news/social media. You don’t have to avoid these but it’s okay to limit your exposure or take a break.
2. Schedule online social appointments (1:1 or with a few friends) to give yourself something to look forward to. Nothing to stop spontaneous catch ups as well!
3. Carry out a random act of kindness every day. What could you do, big or small, for someone? Pray for guidance regarding what and whom.
4. Focus on what you can control (anxiety is commonly triggered by what you can’t control). What are examples of things you can control?
5. Thankfulness journal – jot down 3 things every day you can thank God for!

And remember…

• Whatever your feelings about this season, acknowledge them without guilt, shame or embarrassment
• Bring any anxiety, frustration, fear or grief to the Cross and look to Jesus – He’s constant and in control in this changing and confusing world
• Introverts – look after your extroverted friends! This is probably a more challenging season for them.
• If you are struggling, there are plenty of resources for talkers and texters alike:
  • Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800 (for a call or online chat 24/7)
  • Beyond Blue and Headspace (online chat or in person)
  • Christian Counselling Services (eg. CityLife Community Care, Crossway Lifecare)
  • Staff at school - Wellbeing Team, Homeroom teachers

Mrs Jo deMeester

Wellbeing Co-ordinator

Help from the Bible in the wake of Coronavirus

TRYING TO SEE ALL THIS FROM GOD’S PERSPECTIVE

1. Remember that God is King of Everything.  We don’t always understand God’s ways – that is why he is God and we are not! The virus hasn’t “surprised” God. He is on his throne – he hasn’t “lost” control!  – Hebrews 1:8
2. God is a “shield” (ie. Protector) for those who trust in him – Psalm 3:3 Sometimes God saves us from suffering, sometimes he saves us through suffering.  
3. The command “Do not fear” or commands like it appear in the Bible 365 times! God is present by his Holy Spirit for those who trust in Jesus. Psalm 56:3 –child-like trust – the kind that Jesus commends.
4. There is no part of our life that God is not interested in. We can truly rest in Him!  Psalm 121 – God never sleeps! He is watching over us – day and night.
5. Jesus has defeated sin, death and all evil. Now is a great time to seriously consider and accept his wonderful invitation to be saved. For those who have therefore put their trust in Jesus, not even the virus or death itself can separate us from God and his love. So trusting in Jesus is actually MORE important than avoiding the virus – which of course we also want to do. Romans 8:38-39
6. Even through the virus and all that is happening, God is working for the good of those who love him.  He may even use this virus to bring people to him who, as yet, do not trust in him. Do you trust in Jesus? Romans 8:28
7. We should not be too surprised at an event like this in our fallen world. Genesis 3.
8. This situation won’t last forever. Romans 8:18, 20 – 23, 2 Peter 3:13 Christians have a certain Hope!
9. Don’t waste energy in worry and anxiety. Instead - pray – Philippians 4:6,7. 
   Pray especially for our governments and their leaders – 1 Timothy 2:1 – 2a
10. Trust God and let him care for you. 1 Peter 5:7

So walk with Jesus through each day of your life and enjoy God and the peace he gives in every situation – including the one we are currently living through.

Rev Warwick Grant

Chaplain

Parent Wellbeing Webinar

Last night the St Andrews College community were presented with an informative webinar by our Wellbeing Team along with special guest Dr Christian, a Children's Chiropractor. For those who missed it, here is the link. 

Special Soap Gift

It was a much appreciated gift for St Andrews Staff as they began Term, to be thoughtfully treated by the Tran family from our College Community who brought in some handmade olive soaps to thank all staff for “staying strong and for all our hard work”. All our staff would like to send a big thank you for your wonderful support and encouragement in this time.

Blessings,

St Andrews Christian College Staff