RE News with Laura Matchett

Gospel Reflection Matthew 24:37-44

‘So stay awake, because you do not know the day when your master is coming.’

This Sunday marks the beginning of Advent and the start of the new liturgical year. In the ‘busyness’ and whirlwind of social gatherings and lists of things to do and buy, it is important that we take time to pause and reflect on what this time of year is truly about, the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ. This week’s gospel reminds us of a time, when people just like us were going about their everyday lives when the great flood arrived and changed the world. Matthew’s gospel reminds us that we need to be ready at all times for the arrival of our God.

World Mission Month

Congratulations to our Year 6 students for putting on a fun-filled afternoon for our students last Friday as part of our annual Side Show Alley fundraiser for Catholic Mission. The afternoon raised just over $400 and we thank you for your generous support of this cause.

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal

St John Vianney’s will once again be supporting the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. The last two years have been a challenge for everyone, especially those experiencing disadvantage.

This year has come with new trials including the impacts of closed borders, global inflation, and the east coast energy crisis, putting pressure on people in Australia and being an added stress for people already experiencing hardship. We are asking for donations of non-perishable food which we will give to our local Vinnies volunteers to make hampers for those in need. Food items that can be donated are listed below, and are welcome to be dropped into the front office. The last day to drop off donations is Friday, December 2nd. We thank you for your support of this worthy cause.

End of Year School Masses

We will be celebrating two Masses as a school community to end our year. Our Thanksgiving Mass will be held on Tuesday 6th December, at 12:15pm. All parents and friends, particularly those who have volunteered their time to our school community this year, are warmly invited to attend. The Mass will be followed by an afternoon tea back at school. Invitations will go home shortly. 

Our Year 6 Graduation Mass and Candle Ceremony for our Year 5 students, will be held on Wednesday 13th December, at 1:45pm. We especially invite the families of our Year 5 and 6 students to attend this Mass.

Parish BBQ

The annual Parish BBQ will make a welcome return this year. The event will be held in the hall at St John Vianney’s on Friday 2nd December, at 6:30pm. The Parish will be hosting the event and will provide food and drinks for everyone to enjoy. All parishioners are welcome to come along. We hope to see many of our families there.

Sacraments 2023

The Parish is appreciative of the feedback received from parents during this first year of the pilot program. Some positive changes to the structure have been made and dates for each Sacrament have been finalised. If you would like your child to receive any of the Sacraments next year, please register your child through the Parish QKR!