Religious Education 

Happy Birthday Father Julian! 

Last Wednesday, students in Years 7 and 8 from De La Salle College and students in Years 4 and 6 from OLF celebrated a special Birthday Mass for Fr Julian. 

When Father was asked initially how he would like to celebrate his birthday .. his answer was FAST and immediate…. “ I want to celebrate Mass with the two schools!” Ms Porro (REC at DE La Salle) and myself had the privilege of planning this special Mass. 

As was said in the introduction to the Mass: 

Fr Julian - your unwavering dedication to serving the community and spreading the message of love, compassion, and faith is truly inspiring. You are a guiding light for so many, offering support and wisdom during both joyous and challenging times. Your commitment to your calling and your genuine care for others have touched the hearts of those fortunate enough to know you.

The School Captains from OLF ( Finlay and Spencer) and the School Captains from De La Salle (Cooper and Harry)  paid tribute to Father Julian in their Captains’ speech…..

Today, on behalf of OLF and De La Salle, we would like to thank a very special person in our catholic community, Father Julian. Without you, this Church would not be the same. As a thank you, we'd like to say a few things about why we enjoy having you in our Parish.

Father Julian, I enjoy coming to church and listening to the stories you tell us, especially about your dog and your funny jokes. Thank you for also being a great role model to all students and teaching us all your knowledge about our Catholic Faith. 

Father, I enjoy coming to church knowing that the priests and deacons are beyond kind and they’re really passionate about what they do. Every time I’ve turned up to mass you’ve always had a smile on your face and the stories you would tell were so intriguing and fitting. I’d like to thank you for your kind soul and for teaching us how to follow in the footsteps of Jesus.

From Kindergarten to Year 10, OLF and De La Salle would like to say a big thank you and Happy Birthday to an irreplaceable role model in our Catholic faith. We are immensely grateful for the guidance and support you have provided throughout the years. Your unwavering commitment to your vocation and your selfless service to the community has touched the lives of countless individuals.

The Staff from OLF were able to celebrate with Father Julian after school one day. We were all so happy to be able to share in this special occasion with Father.

On this special day, we wish you abundant blessings, good health, and joy. May you continue to be a guiding light, illuminating the path for those in need. May your unwavering faith be rewarded with strength and perseverance. And may your life be filled with happiness, love, and fulfilment. On behalf of our communities, we now have some special gifts to present to you.

On behalf of all of us Father Julian, we wish you a VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY !!

Confirmation

Last night the Candidates for Confirmation attended their final session in preparation for receiving the Sacrament. We talked about how the gifts of the Holy Spirit help us in our daily lives and how meaningful they are for us in how we go about doing the things we do each day.

Do you know what these gifts are???? 

Wisdom           Understanding         Knowledge          Courage    

Right Judgement           Reverence         Wonder and awe in God’s presence 

How do these gifts help YOU in YOUR daily life ???

St Vincent de Paul Winter appeal

This Winter the Vinnies Winter appeal is focussing on a fast growing cohort of people experiencing homelessness in Australia…… WOMEN OVER THE AGE OF 55 !!!

Did you know….

Homelessness can affect anyone, but women over 55 are particularly vulnerable. The number of women experiencing homelessness has significantly increased over the past few years. The additional stress brought on by the cost of living and housing affordability crisis has caused many older women to find themselves homeless or at risk of being homeless.

At OLF we are committed to helping the vulnerable and disadvantaged in our community. At the end of this term we will be sending information out as to how you can help those in need - particularly the homeless. STAY TUNED !!!! 

Have a fabulous week everyone!

Please keep in your Prayers the families and students who are preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation!

Mrs Cheryl Ross | Religious Education Coordinator