APRE NEWS
Dear Parents and Carers,
Welcome back for what no doubt will be a busy end to the year. First of all, sincere thanks to Paula Wagner who stepped into the APRE role while I was on leave at the end of last term. I had no doubt that the transition would be seemless and I congratulate Paula for undertaking the many and varied tasks involved in leadership with confidence and skill. I am sure we will see her stepping up again in the future.
Could I ask that you all keep two members of our community in your prayers please. As you know, Melinda Harkins is still on leave as she waits for her injuries from a pushbike incident to heal. Cate Bell and Siobhan Grundon will be teaching 3H in her absence. Last weekend, Paige Thompson, who many of our students and families know from Before/ After School Care (Hall thorpe) had a very nasty crash while particpating in motorcross. Paige is recovering at home and we wish her a speedy recovery as well.
Speaking of prayer... traditionally, October is the month of the ROSARY and at SSPS we do spend the month of October sharing the rosary together. Already I have had a number of students come and show me the Rosary Beads that they have been allowed to bring from home. They all know that these are not to come outside but are vey special and used during prayer time each day.
Our Year 5 students were all presented with a surprise gift yesterday, which comprised of a personal set of Rosary Beads that were donated to the school by Mary's Rosary Making Group (Toowoomba based), with the following message...
" These beads have been made with loving hands and we pray that the children will receive many blessings as they journey through the mysteries of Christ's life and throughout their own journey of life."
SOCKTOBER:
Any funds raised will be sent to Catholic Mission who have a variety of projects around the world that focus on supporting vulnerable children to fulfil their basic needs. Classes are running their own fundraising during October, culminating in our Socktober Day, where everyone is invited to wear crazy socks and bring a gold coin donation. This is scheduled for Friday, October 30. Thanks for your support for this initiative.
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM:
Bishop McGuckin has given us a date for the celebration of Confirmation for our students participating in the St Patrick’s Cathedral Parish Sacramental Program - Friday, 13th November (5.30pm and 7.00pm). The limit for candidates will be 24 at each time with a maximum of four people (Candidate plus three others). Families will need to contact the Parish Office as soon as possible on 4637 1500 to nominate their preferred time, together with the name, address and phone number for the sponsor. Hopefully, your child has been working through the sessions in his/her preparation booklet and a reminder, too, about decorating his/her sash if he/she would like.
As discussed at the celebration of First Eucharist, your child may choose to use his/her Baptismal name (since this sacrament is confirming the baptismal promises made at his/her Baptism) or a saint’s name whose story resonates with your child. There are many books and websites with stories of saints that your child may like to explore. Please contact either Father Michael, Paula Wagner or me, if you need further clarification.
Enjoy the rest of the week,
Regards
Judy