Chaplaincy news

Reflection – finding joy

A warm welcome back to all our families new and returning! It’s a tricky start to the year with so much uncertainty and fear as we look back on the last two years of school. However, many of our girls are just delighted to be back and this helps to provide some hope. 

You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands.

Isaiah 55:12

Nothing harms us emotionally the way stress does. Anxiety could be described as emotions out of control. The past two years have taken our stress levels to new heights.

Every situation in life requires us to make a choice about how we respond, we have the opportunity to think positively about the day. This can shift our mindset immediately. We don’t have to deny the problems we are facing, or pretend we aren’t stressed and angry about what is going on around us, but rather attempt to find the positives in the day. Some days this will be harder than others! Be sure that each day is filled with words that fuel joy, not anger and bitterness at the circumstances. 

Prayer for the fortnight

I pray for more joy this fortnight, I pray I will find the small positives in my life that raise me up and keep me moving forwards.

You’re all invited to Alpha

St Mary’s Oaktree Church is running Alpha starting on Tuesday 15 February at 7.30pm. 

Alpha is a series of free interactive sessions that create a safe and honest space, where people can explore and question life, faith and meaning. There is no need to have any faith background, we just ask that you’re opening to listening and you bring all your hardest questions about faith, life and the church. Dessert will also be provided. 

You can find out more details about the Alpha course here.

There will be an opportunity to come online or in person. In person will be at St Mary’s Oaktree Church. Please contact Claire Cheeseman at ccheeseman@shelford.vic.edu.au for online Zoom details and if you have any questions.

Claire Cheeseman

School Chaplain