Dear Parents,

It has been wonderful to welcome our students back to school and commence Term Two with some events that continue to highlight and encourage student participation and community engagement.

ANZAC Day

A special thank you to students and families for their commitment to our ANZAC Day commemorative services in Batlow over the holidays. Congratulations to Mackenzie and Ruby for their extra involvement at the Cenotaph - I am very proud of our ongoing commitment to acknowledge the sacrifices of our service men, women and their families. 

Western Region Cross Country

We were once again blessed with one of our better Autumn days for our Western Region Cross Country on Thursday. This not only showcased our picturesque location but also the wonderful community we have here at St Mary’s. Our Community Council, other families and staff certainly assisted in making the day a success and I am extremely grateful for this contribution.

Congratulations to all students that participated. Hopefully, the challenge of participating against our other Western Region schools was rewarding. Congratulations to Oliver Dodds, who ran an outstanding race to cross the finish line in 4th place and qualify for the Arch Diocesan Cross Country at Stromlo Forest Park, Canberra on Friday 17th May.

Catholic Schools week

Next week marks the commencement of Catholic Schools Week. This anticipated week is a wonderful reminder of the important connection between our Catholic tradition and learning within our school community. Both our faith and learning are not separate entities. They go hand in hand and play an integral role in our school vision to “nurture, educate and inspire students to learn with confidence and lead with compassion”  

Year 3/4 Mass

As part of Catholic Schools Week celebrations, Year Three and Four will lead our Mass on Thursday 9th May. This will commence at 12.15pm and I encourage families to come along and celebrate. On Thursday afternoon, we will also participate in some fun whole-school activities that acknowledge the history of St Mary’s and the Canberra-Goulburn ArchDiocese - families are most welcome to come in and celebrate with us!

Enjoy the weekend,

Ryan

Welcome back to Term 2! We pray that our term is filled with many blessings. 

Class Mass

Year 3/4 will lead us in Mass next Thursday, 9th of May at 12:15pm. 3/4 have been practising their readings and are proud to lead Mass. 

Please know all family and community members are welcome to join us. 

ANZAC Day

Last Thursday, we gathered on ANZAC day to remember the brave men and women who served and recognise those currently serving. It was humbling to see so many of our students attend to represent St Mary’s and pay their respects. 

In spirit of the Anzacs we pray

Gracious and loving God, the cross of Christ is the sign of your desire for justice and peace for all. Open our minds to your vision as we remember all who suffered through Australia and New Zealand’s involvement in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations. Grant all service persons who sacrificed health and life for the good of all, the gift of your deep peace. May we who inherit the freedom for which they fought become instruments of your peace in our homes, workplaces and world. We ask this prayer through Christ our Lord. 

Amen  

Have a wonderful week,

Amy Buckmaster - Religious Education leader

Book club orders are due by next Friday 10 May for anyone wishing to order.