22/11/18
Dear Parents and Friends,
On Sunday 2 December, we enter the season of Advent, a time for us to reflect on our lives and to prepare to celebrate the gifts given to us through the birth of Jesus at Christmas. In the first week of this time of preparation, we are called to be people of joy and hope – joy in all that has been given to us and to have hope in our daily lives, knowing that God is always with us.
The Advent Wreath focuses us on our preparation for the great celebration of Christmas. Its candles remind us that Jesus is the light of the world and that his coming brought new hope to the people. As Christians, we believe that Jesus has come into our world bringing the good news of the Father’s love. He continues to come into our lives, inviting us, through the day to day interactions we have with each other, to recognize and reflect God’s love.
As we enter into the season of Advent, take some time with your family to reflect on the true and wonderful meaning of Christmas and how each of us can bring joy and hope to others.
PARISH FETE
Last Saturday we enjoyed a wonderful day with beautiful weather as we came together as a community for the occasion of our Parish Fete. Thank you to everyone for being there - whether as a helper or being present, thus showing your support for our Parish. I congratulate the Fete Committee who have worked so hard over many months to bring the day together. A special thank you to Belinda Thomas, leader of the Fete Committee. Belinda’s enthusiasm and commitment to the life of our community was instrumental in the success of the day. Well done Belinda. Thank you to all members of the Fete Committee - Sarah, Amanda, Natasha, Katie, Pat Arzenti, Melanie Mayne, Denise Chang-Faux, Rachael, Janet, Rhiannon, Elyse, Catrina and Carmel. The Committee put in many months of hard work behind the scenes which allowed the day to come together so beautifully. Thank you for your generous efforts, commitment and dedication. On the day, there were so many parents and staff assisting with stalls and of course, the MaD Team were there once again, setting up for the day and cooking us a wonderful bar/be/que. Well done to everyone involved. You all truly bring so much to our community though your generosity of spirit and commitment.
WORKING BEE
Our final Working Bee for the year was held on 10 November when there was quite a good turn out – thank you Yr. 5 parents and others who came along. There was much to do in preparation for the Fete, so everyone rolled their sleeves up and did a great job. Thank you sincerely.
CAROLS NIGHT
On Wednesday 5 December we will gather together to join in the celebration of the birth of Jesus - our savior. Carols will commence at 7.00pm and this year, Carols will be held on the Oval at school. Students are to arrive at 6.30pm and are to bring with them a drink and a snack. Parents are asked not to bring food to your child during the singing of Carols. BYO drinks, nibbles, chair/rug and be ready to enjoy the peace and goodwill of Christmas.
ST. MARY’S FEAST AND FUN DAY
We will celebrate our Feast Day on Friday 7 December. Mass will be celebrated at 9.15am when we will reflect on the great gift of the community of St. Mary’s. Following Mass, the students will engage in various activities, including attending a performance by the Yr. 6 students who will display their skills following their participation in the Circus Skills Program. A highlight of the day will be a Fun Run in which all students will participate. Students are asked to gain sponsorship for their participation in this activity and all proceeds will go towards our St. Mary’s Benevolent Fund which was launched a few months back. For each $10 raised in sponsorship, students will receive a raffle ticket to go into a draw for a prize. Please get behind this fundraising activity as the Benevolent Fund has been established to assist in an emergency where a school family requires some financial support “beyond the suffering experienced as part of ordinary daily life.”
SACRAMENTAL DATES 2019
Please Note Changes to dates for First Reconciliation. Unfortunately, it has been necessary to change the dates advertised in the last Candela of the First Reconciliation Dates
First Reconciliation will now be celebrated on Tuesday 19 November at 6.30pm and Saturday 23 November at 10.00am.
First Eucharist will be celebrated over two weekends at the Parish Masses on 27 and 28 April and 4 and 5 May.
Confirmation will be celebrated on 4 August at two Masses - 12.00 midday and at 2.30pm.
Dates for Sacramental Meetings and Commitment Masses will be distributed with the 2019 calendar of dates.
SCHOOL FEES 2019
The 2019 Fees were reviewed by the Finance Committee at our most recent meeting and have been set as follows: School Fee per family $1760, Student Levy per student, $390 and Capital Levy per family $390. The overall Total increase is $75 for a family with one child, this being a 3% increase. Accounts will be issued early in Term 1 2019.
Kind regards, Helen