Principal's News
Dear Parents and Caregivers,
Preps 100 days.
There has never been a more interesting Prep year than 2020!!
After a successful start to school with their beautiful teacher Aoife Tierney, the Preps left their lovely safe classroom space to go home to learn. However all was not lost as Miss Tierney was joined by her assistants Magical Mary, Tony Bear and Penelope Pirate to keep the children amused as well as learning the joys of the Prep curriculum online.
Today our children celebrate 100 days of school and haven't they progressed as a little group. I know that Miss Tierney and the Mums and Dads prepared a special time for you today. Enjoy the remainder of your day of celebration.
Everyone at St James has been impressed to see you develop so quickly under the watchful eyes of Miss Tierney, Tony Bear, Magical Mary and Penelope Pirate.
Reflection
Last week's Gospel was Matthew’s account of Jesus walking on water. (Mt 14: 22-33) The symbolism in the story I think is relevant at this time as we are being tossed about by the uncertainty and unpredictability of the pandemic that has gripped the world. We would much rather return to the knowing ways of what life was at St James prior to the mass changes we had made for our school and wider community. How we rebalance when we do return will be a combination of school practice this semester.
Jesus goes away alone and prays by himself into the hills.
After a busy period Jesus required the time to reflect and recharge his inner reserves. At this time we too may have sought refuge in the quiet spaces of our homes to pray to our God to strengthen us as we manage the daily challenges of being a mother, father, child and friend. Not an easy period at all for us and one that we have never encountered before.
Next Jesus is walking on the lake. Remember this is a story and Matthew is impressing upon his community and in turn our community today that Jesus is worthy of following despite our sometimes questioning faith.
The disciples are in the boat a long way from safety.
The seas are ‘tormented’ by the waves. We are also tormented by wondering when there will be an end in sight from the prolonged period of Covid restrictions. Can we faithfully ride the waves of turbulence with our faith in God.
The disciples in the boat cry out in fear as they feel the boat will capsize. There have been many times that although we may not have been close to death, our anxiety levels have increased.
‘Courage it is I. Do not be afraid’
How we respond to the challenges ahead of us is important. It will require prayer reflection. Peter did it for a while walking on water but then began to sink. At times we may find ourselves sinking and flat. We have noticed that for some children their demeanour has changed as they do not have their friends around them. We are all social beings and companionship is something that we all seek.
From the Parish Bulletin last week we pray.
That we as members of the St James and the Church remain faithful in times of doubt and fear. Lord hear our prayer.
That those that are tossed about by misfortune and chaos will be calmed by Christ’s healing touch. Lord hear our prayer.
That those who live in constant fear will find comfort in knowing that Christ is always beside them. Lord hear our prayer.
That healthcare workers, may they be given patience and determination to mirror Christ’s compassion in their ministry of healing. Lord hear our prayer.
That those suffering financial hardship because of the pandemic will be supported and encouraged by their governments and communities. Lord hear our prayer.
For all these prayers that we hold in our hearts.
Lord hear our prayers.
Welcome to our new Parish Priests
Last weekend we welcomed our new Parish Priests:
Fr David Cartwright and Fr Dean Mathieson.
Please read the attached introductory letter.
Mass will be screened this Sunday at 11am. Click on the link at website: https://baysidecatholicmission.org/
or
https://bit.ly/BaysideCatholicMission
You can also visit the Parish website.
Regards,
Brendan Flanagan
Principal