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Every Child, Every Day,
Learning and Achieving in a Faith - Filled Environment
Dear Parents, Students, Staff and all associated with St Joseph’s Community
Having the capacity to mentally walk in the shoes of another person opens up our minds into being mindful of the needs and perspectives of that person. Even as we do this, we need to be mindful that it is rare for us to fully know what is occurring for the other person. Disciplining ourselves to pause and deeply reflect about life from another’s perspective slows down our judgement. It creates spaces for empathy and actions focused on reaching out and building up. Life lived from this perspective, frees the mind to enrich relationships and build capacity for all those around us.
Jesus not only walked in our shoes but also took on all of our burdens and shortcomings so that we could be free to use our gifts to connect with the lonely, lift up those who are suffering and to provide hope for those without it. As it says in 1 Thessalonians 5: 11, we are to encourage each other and build each other up. Imagine our conversations if this was the mantra held by all. Imagine our world. We can make it happen in our area of influence. For a day, take the challenge of redirecting self-talk and the conversations around you with the question of, “What would it be like to walk in their shoes?”.
Last Friday was the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence. At the base of this action is the need for each of us to have respect for the dignity and worth of every person. Our habits of conversation reflect how we think about the worth of all people. It is useful for us to listen carefully to our own words and hear the subtle and not so subtle messages we are sharing with our friends, family and colleagues. We are all influenced by the cultures we shape in our homes, social settings and workplaces. Young people will take on a culture of respect for people when they are immersed in it. We can make a significant difference for many people by taking action within our own circles. As students, staff and parents, we can discipline ourselves to speak well of others and insist on others doing the same. We can focus on identifying and building on the strengths of other people. Where these actions become a habit of life then we create a culture of inclusion and possibility that spreads well beyond us. People with these outlooks are the ones who lead and make a difference. We benefit from them everyday.
Feast day of St Joseph
Now that we are starting to return to ‘normal school life’, it was great to be able to extend further invitations for our community to reconnect as we celebrated the feast day for our school’s patron saint, St Joseph, with yesterday’s Mass with our middle and senior school. Our juniors also celebrated this special occasion with their online, pre-recorded liturgy with Fr Darren. Many thanks to Fr Darren for presiding over our Eucharist celebration and to Belinda O’Brien (REL) and staff for making Monday a day of celebrations - the sausages and zooper doopers went down a treat!
Senior Athletics
Congratulations to all of our Grade 3-6 students who participated in today's Athletics events. The day was a great success - students showed much enthusiasm while being self managers of their behaviours. Many thanks to the parents for their support and to those who came along to watch. Special thanks to Mrs Michelle Richards and Trtacy Allan who organised and coordinated the day and to the Mary MacKillop College students who came along to help run the events. It was wonderful to see the students not only celebrating each other's successes but also encouraging their peers in their attempts at the events.
Enhancing Catholic School Identity (ECSI) Survey.
I would like to thank those parents who have already been able to complete the ECSI Survey. All families are invited to participate in this survey, which will assist us in better understanding how our Catholic Identity is expressed in work and practice here at St Joseph’s.
Whilst I appreciate that it does take some time to finish, it is important for you to contribute. Please refer to the PAM notification on how to access and complete these surveys.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us as we are always here to help and no question or concern is too small or unimportant. We always find that the sooner we ask for assistance or clarification, the sooner we can work together to resolve any situation that may arise.
Yours in Catholic Education
Ronan O’Mahony
Principal
God, you love me as your own child.
May I bend my life and will toward you
so that I might accept your teaching and guidance.
I am so grateful for your support in my life,
now and in the eternal life you are preparing for me.
I beg for your help and Spirit in my life today.
Amen
In the 1/2 area we have been learning about how we can keep our mind, body and classroom healthy. We looked at how much sugar is in different foods and drinks by measuring how many teaspoons in a plastic bag. We also made a healthy snack we can eat when we are hungry.
We've explored what is a growth mindset and making mistakes is a good thing because we can learn from these mistakes. Next week we are going to participate in a PT session and look at the importance of being physically active.
Last Thursday was St Patrick's and to celebrate St Patrick's Day we worked on our fine motor skills to decorate and display a shamrock.
Last Friday was National Day of Action Against Bullying, we watched a clip about making kind choices with Allen the Alien.
We have had a great learning week.
1/2 Team
The grade 3/4 students have been enjoying a variety of learning opportunities recently. Religious studies have been especially exciting as we begin Lent. Students have celebrated Shrove Tuesday, as well as St Joseph's Day. Our masses have been a combination of online masses, as well as going to the church. It is with great enthusiasm that students now begin preparations for Stations of the Cross and Reconciliation.
English continues to be enjoyable as we focus on how to find the main idea in a variety of texts. Our maths focus continues to be Place Value.
Integrated studies has been another highlight, as we strive to deepen our knowledge of Australia's history before settlement, at settlement and after settlement. We are also looking at setting ourselves learning goals, with "collaboration" being our key learning asset.
We look forward to many exciting events occurring before the end of term, starting with House Athletics.
3/4 Team
Our local member of parliament Jordan Crugnale visited the Grade 5/6 classes recently to talk about her work in the Victorian government. The senior students have been learning about how democracy works and the role of different levels of government in providing services for our communities, so they had lots of questions prepared. Jordan presented the students with some environmentally friendly gifts and donated several beautiful books to our school library, all of which were gratefully received. We appreciate Jordan giving up her time to meet with us, the students found her visit very informative.
5/6 Team
St Joseph’s Feast Day Celebration
On Monday we celebrated St Joseph’s Feast day. The Grade 3-6 Students attended Mass with Father Darren and the Preps-2 Students took part in a liturgy in the classroom, praying respectfully and singing beautifully. The day was made all the more special with a sausage sizzle lunch and an icy pole, which was well received on the warm day. Thank you to all the wonderful staff and Liturgy Captains who helped to make the day run so smoothly!
Bel O’Brien
Religious Education Leader
Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be held on Tuesday March 29 at 6.30pm at St Joseph's Church. Preparation for the Sacrament has begun in class.
If your child is a baptised Catholic and you wish for them to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation (and later in the year receive their First Holy Communion) the information has been sent to Grade 3 families via PAM if you have not responded please do so asap or contact the office if you have not received the information.
Third Week of Lent
(Week beginning Monday 21st March)
We are now in the third week of Lent with the Project Compassion story of Janice, a Wagilak woman and traditional dancer who tells her family’s stories through movements handed down over generations.
Like many remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Janice’s faces a range of challenges – low employment and education, financial hardship, poorer health and lower life expectancy.
With your help, Caritas Australia supports Djilpin Arts Aboriginal Corporation, which operates a centre for traditional and contemporary Aboriginal arts and culture, providing employment and generating income for local communities.
Janice believes that Djilpin Arts’ work is essential to create opportunities for young people to stay on-country, to share intergenerational knowledge between elders and the younger generation - to promote healing, and to keep culture alive.
Watch a short film about Janice’s story here.
Please support Project Compassion: lent.caritas.org.au
Fourth Week of Lent
(Week beginning Monday 28th March)
This week through Project Compassion we learn about Rosalie, who lives with her husband and seven children in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Forced to join the army when she was just 15-years-old, Rosalie experienced significant trauma and hardship during her years in the military. After she was demobilised from the army, Rosalie, like other ex-combatants, was left to fend for herself in the community.
With your generous support and through Caritas Australia's partners, the Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) and Caritas Bukavu, Rosalie was able to connect with other members of her community and participate in business skills training to help her to reintegrate into society.
She joined a savings group which helped her with a loan to start her own small business selling second-hand shoes and natural remedies.
“I can eat, dress, maintain my health and help others. My children study and manage to eat twice a day. I have learnt to work hand-in-hand with other members of the community. Really, there is more joy in sharing with others.” - Rosalie
Watch a short film about Rosalie’s story here.
Please support Project Compassion: lent.caritas.org.au
Senior House Athletics Carnival
Today we had a very successful Senior House Athletics Carnival.
Student's ran, threw and jumped their way across 7 events and were very supportive of their classmates' efforts and successes. Well done to all students for giving it their best, and having a go. Thank you to Mary Mackillop who provided assistance on the day. It was also great to see so many parents as spectators, thank you for supporting your children. Some students will now move forward to the district athletics championships which will be held early next term.
House champion and age group champions will be announced at assembly next term.
School Photos will take place Monday March 28. Photo envelopes have been distributed to students these will need to be completed and returned with your child on Monday March 28 when photos are taken.
Envelopes for sibling photos are inside the envelope of the eldest sibling.
The annual Easter Raffle has always been an excellent fundraiser for the school community, it has contributed to the purchasing of books, sports equipment and much more while benefiting our children.
All families have received a book of raffle tickets to sell if you would like an additional book please contact the office. Could raffle tickets and Easter egg donations all please be sent into the office by Thursday March 31. Payment for tickets can be made via CDFpay or cash. Thank you for all donations already received.
Transition to the winter uniform will begin at the beginning of Term 2
Totally Work Wear has some supply on hand but is currently taking orders for additional sizes if needed.
Please call 5672 5878 or visit instore if you wish to place an order.
Pinafores will take approximately 4-6 weeks to arrive, Pinafore sizes can be measured by current summer uniform sizes.
Prep Tours / Application for Enrolment 2023
We are now taking bookings for Prep tours and accepting Applications for student enrolments for 2023. Please contact the office on 5672 1052 to make a time. Current families with students attending in 2023 should book a tour and return an application to ensure all details are current and up to date. The application form can be found below. Email completed forms to jblair@stjwonthaggi.catholic.edu.au
AS OF FRIDAY 25TH FEBRUARY,2022 AT MIDNIGHT, THE WEARING OF MASKS AT MASS BECOMES OPTIONAL, YOU NO LONGER NEED TO QR OR SIGN IN.
PLEASE NOTE: THAT ALL HELPING TO CONDUCT THESE MASSES HAVE BEEN DOUBLE VACCINATED, HAVING ALSO RECEIVED THE 3RD BOOSTER, INCLUDING FATHER, THE SACRISTANS, CLEANING STAFF AND PARISH SECRETARY.
IMPORTANT LETTER: AT THE END OF THIS BULLETIN PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO READ THE LETTER FROM BISHOP GREG BENNET, BISHOP OF SALE.
A list of live streams across the Diocese is on www.cdsale.org.au/coronavirus page. This page has listed the Mass times which occur regularly, ie. Don’t change from week to week. JUST A REMINDER THAT MASS FOR YOU AT HOME IS AN OPTION FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR MASS ON TELEVISION (6am on Channel 10, 10am on Foxtel Aurora Channel 173) or online at www.massforyou.com.au or https://www.youtube.com/massforyouathome anytime from 7a.m. AEST
Please pray for the people of the Ukraine and all those impacted by the floods in New South Wales and Queensland. The anniversaries of Bridie Hoare, Agatha Teoh, Fr. Andrew Ryan, Mgr. Joseph (Joe) Daly and our loved ones. May God’s merciful love shine on them and on their loved ones left behind.
PROJECT COMPASSION BOXES AND ENVELOPES ARE AVAILABLE IN THE FOYER OF BOTH CHURCHES THIS WEEKEND. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND GENEROSITY.
THANK YOU TO ANNE HEBB AND ANNE TSCHIDERER FOR CONDUCTING THE LITURGY SERVIES WHILE FATHER DARREN WAS AWAY.
MARY MACKILLOP HERITAGE CENTRE (MMHC) -‘Cuppa with Mary’ When visiting Melbourne, please include a visit to the Mary MacKillop Museum that tells Mary and the SOSJ’s story. Entry is free. Do a walking tour of the Mary MacKillop Heritage trails and Mary’s place of birth. Consider organising a Parish group and have a ‘Cuppa with Mary’. Group bookings which includes a presentation, tour and prayer reflection in the Chapel where Mary prayed, cost $20 per person. Contact Kate on 03 9926 9300 for a group booking.
Learn about the Mary MacKillop’s story and ministry through participation in a two-day program at the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre. Titled Mary MacKillop “Daughter of Melbourne” in this program, you have opportunity to explore the Life and Spirit of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop as well as have a guided tour of places in Melbourne that were connected with Mary and the Sisters of Saint Joseph Victorian Story and time for personal reflection. While this is an opportunity to learn about and be touched by the life and spirit of Mary MacKillop, it is also an opportunity for you to explore and share the challenges and stirrings in your own heart as you respond with others to action today. You can access more information, obtain a brochure and register for this two-day event.
Mary MacKillop Gift shop- With Easter coming up, please consider supporting the work of the Sisters of St. Joseph by purchasing a present from the Museum Gift Shop (communion and confirmation gifts, devotional items, Vatican Library collection, rosary beads, holding crosses, candles, cards, statues, crucifixes, books and Peruvian handmade items).
Accommodation Specials- With Melbourne opening up again, book a stay at the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre Accommodation in the heart of Melbourne. Contact Kate on 03 9926 9300.
EMMAUS LENT 2022: Please find attached information about Emmaus Spirituality Centres-Online series for Lent and also their Walking retreats. There is a flyer at the end of this Bulletin. For further details please do email Geraldine at Emmaus-salespirituality1@gmail.com (GO TO THE END OF THE BULLETIN TO READ THE FLYERS.
PATHWAYS VICTORIA: Bishop Greg Bennet said: I join the Catholic Bishops of Victoria in our renewed and sincere apology to all victims of sexual abuse by clergy and Church personnel. We pledge ongoing commitment to ensure all those who have allegations of abuse have an appropriate independent process in order for them to tell their story in safety, and to have an appropriate pastoral response which respects their particular individual needs and circumstances. For further information about Pathways company and the new model is available in the Pathways website: www.pathwaysvictoria.com
ASSSEMBLY: PLENARY COUNCIL: Keep up with the latest Plenary news:
- On our Sale Diocesan website or Facebook page
- Via the Plenary Council Facebook, website or YouTube channel.
- Use the Mass booklets for your parish celebrations visit https://plenarycouncil.catholic.org.au/ or the Plenary Council YouTube channel.
- Listen to daily podcasts from Plenary Council members at https://anchor.fm/plenarypodcast
Cry of the Earth the Social Justice Statement can be read on https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au/2021/06/24/social-justice-statement-2021-22/.
PALMS AUSTRALIA:Supporting Sustainable International Development Love, Getting involved in people centred Human Development as an invited guest means humbly putting your person and your skills at the disposal of your trusted hosts. You will be a stranger in the place and for six months a Pilgrim learning the wisdom of local ways. Palms Australia has 60 years of experience preparing and assisting Australians to learn and pass on their skills in another culture. Is one of our assignments your opportunity to Reach Beyond? Find Out More: phone 0422 742 567. Join our online forum at 5:30pm AEDT on Thursday 17th March, 2022, attend and engage with a panel of Palms most experienced Program Participants. (Please read the attached letter from Bishop Greg Bennet at the end of this Bulletin.
MISSAL ON LINE: ‘An App’ which Father Darren Howie finds very helpful is Universalis. This will allow you to follow the Daily Mass.
PRAYER SHAWLS: There is a good supply at both St. Joseph’s Parish Office and also now at the Church in Inverloch so please keep this in mind and simply contact anyone below if you see a need. Kristine McRae (Parish Office) 0356 721 111 Maureen Maartensz 0407 055 447 (Wonthaggi) Philippa Warby; 0408 331 340, Julie de Bondt; 0407 535 032.
CATHOLIC CARE: New self-help mental health service for parents, families and individuals.
The demand for mental health services is becoming more and more prominent across the State, and for many regions, waiting lists to access services are becoming overwhelmingly long.
As a response to the increased need for mental health support, we’ve recently commenced a new state-wide mental health service with minimal wait times, called the Psychological Wellbeing Service (PWS).
Using evidence based therapies, our PWS clinicians provide parenting support and mental health support focused on self-help skill learning to aid in recovery, such as problem-solving skills, progressive muscle relaxation, and traditional cognitive behavioural therapy as a more intensive support.
We’ve also launched a free Mental Health and Wellbeing Guide created by our PWS team.
Read more about our new service and download the guide from CatholicCare Victoria.
Aid to the Church in Need Australia Aid to the Church in Need has launched a national emergency appeal for Ukraine. ACN is committed to strengthening and supporting the Catholic Church in Ukraine, as we have done for the past 70 years. The immediate emergency help will support the work of the Church in Ukraine by assisting priests, brothers and religious sisters to continue their pastoral and outreach programs. We will continue to stand by our brothers and sisters in faith as they undergo trying times and seek to bring peace to a country that is surrounded by turmoil and unrest. Can you provide aid to the Catholic people in Ukraine? They need your help! Visit www.aidtochurch.org/ukraine
P.O. BOX 335, PENRITH NSW 2751
1800 101 201/ 02 9167 9517
We have been emailing and sending out important communications from the Diocese and if you would like to be involved and receive this information then please contact the Parish Office on 56 721 111 or email your details to wonthaggi@cdsale.org.au.
We are a Child Safe Parish. Any children, young persons and vulnerable adults have a right to feel safe and be safe. If you are concerned about any form of abuse, or believe that someone is at significant risk, you should immediately raise your concerns with one of our Parish Safeguarding Officers. Contact Kristine McRae via the Parish Office: 03 56 721 111 or St. Joseph’s School Safeguarding Officer 03 56 721 052. Take care, we are here to help.
If you are in need of urgent assistance, please phone eithe Father Darren Howie 0356 722 923 or Kristine on 03 56 72111 or 04999 15 784.
Bishops Message of prayer for Ukraine
Father Darren Howie Mrs. Kristine McRae
Parish Priest Parish Secretary
St. Joseph’s Parish Wonthaggi