Dear Parents and Caregivers
A very happy New Year and welcome back to the ‘old’ families and to all of the new families to our very interesting start to the school year. I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas that enabled you to spend time with your loved ones as you celebrated the birthday of Jesus, our Lord and Saviour.
I thank all the parents that I have met at the Bridge St site for their warm welcomes to this wonderful community. I am looking forward to meeting the families at the William St site soon too. Just a little bit about myself: I have been in Catholic Education since 1990 in many different and varied roles. From ESO, teacher of Rec-Yr 7, to many different POR leadership positions. I have undertaken a number of Acting APRIM roles in the past 4 years – which have provided me with wonderful and rich experiences. I have been privileged to get to know so many different school communities and the Parishes they are in; and I am sure this is going to be the same here at St Joseph’s Memorial.
As we move into the second month of 2022 we know the year will have its rewards and its challenges for us. As we know it is through challenges and the way we work through them that help us truly grow and develop our full potential. The start of a new year also gives our students the opportunity to set new goals for their learning both in the classroom and the school yard.
One of our challenges as teachers is to help each of our students develop their relationship with God our creator. It is in our relationships with others and the world around us that we come to understand our God. We remind them that they are unique, made in the image of God. They all have gifts and talents and that God wants them to use these to help others.
Sometimes it is hard for us to see the gift/s we have been given or how best to use them. You can help your child by telling them about their gifts you have noticed and encouraging them to use these special gifts or talents eg. They play nicely with brothers/sisters/friends, they draw/colour in well or they are good at building things/reading/singing.
I have also been in contact with the Parish with regards to the Sacramental Program. More information will be given out later in the Term concerning the students who are preparing for the Confirmation and Holy Communion program. Students involved in Reconciliation during 2021 and any other students in Years 4 or above who have been Baptised and have undertaken Reconciliation can be involved.
If you have any questions about the program or eligibility or; if you are considering starting your children’s Religious Journey with the Sacrament of Baptism, please contact Franco Canil in the Office.
This Week’s Sunday Readings are: First Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12,16-20
Gospel Reading: Luke 6:17,20-26
Also, as a quick reminder that Mass times at St Iganatius Church, Norwood are:
Saturday: (Vigil) 6:00pm
Sunday: 8:30am, 10:00am, 5:00pm
“We are all a reflection of God’s love”
Franco Canil
Acting APRIM