RE and Wellbeing News

Messages from Mr Andrew Butler

The Sacrament of Confirmation program is well underway and last week the parents and children took part in a special workshop to explore the meaning of Confirmation and prepare for the Sacrament. 

Please pray for all our Year 6 Confirmation candidates as they prepare to receive this very important and significant sacrament. The Sacrament of Confirmation will take place at St Peter's College Hall, West Campus on Sunday 18th June at 2:00pm.

The First Holy Communion Program will commence in Term 3 for students in Year 4 and above who have received the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Please keep an eye out for reminders of the Parent Workshops.

Parent Information Workshop

Wednesday 19th July at 7.00pm

Commitment Weekend: 22nd/23rd July

And

Wednesday 26th July at 7.00pm

Commitment Weekend: 29th July /30th July

 Note: Parents need to attend only One session, no need to bring your child.

Exciting news! The Rosary Garden (outside the Foundation classrooms) will soon be redeveloped. We will be retaining some of the significant symbols and plants and will create a wonderful prayerful raised sacred space. Stay tuned as the project commences!

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SPECIAL REPORT: Vaping & E-Cigarettes

Over recent months, there has been a growing concern about the impending epidemic affecting young people in relation to the use of e-cigarettes and the trendy pastime of vaping. As this activity grows in popularity, most teenagers are unaware of the associated risks and the potential impact vaping can have on their development and overall health.

Vaping is the act of inhaling a vapour created by an electronic cigarette, or e-cigarette. Although vaping is often marketed as being the “healthy” alternative to smoking, doctors advise that if you do not smoke, then you should not start vaping.   Although vaping products are infused with enticing flavours, many contain high levels of nicotine as well as other chemicals and additives, that when inhaled, can cause severe damage to the lungs.

Australia has strict regulations in place for nicotine-containing products and despite it being illegal to use, sell or buy nicotine for use in e-cigarettes, users are purchasing these products through other avenues. A recent Australian study of chemically flavoured liquids used in e-cigarettes which are available here for purchase over the counter, has confirmed concerns about their safety and respiratory health impact. 

Attempts are being made to regulate vaping and ban the importation of vape products containing nicotine. Unfortunately, manufacturers are developing vaping devices that are cheaper and easier to hide than conventional cigarettes, making it more attractive and cost-effective for impressionable young people.

For more information click here to download vaping fact sheets from the Lung Foundation Australia.

Or, if this Special Report has raised some issues, please seek support from your medical practitioner or one of the following services:

Lung Foundation Australia 1800 654 301 

Quitline 13 78 48

Poisons Information Line 13 11 26 

Alcohol and Drug Foundation 1300 85 85 84