Religious Education & Wellbeing News
Remembrance Day Prayer Service 10th November 2023
On Friday the 10th November the whole school gathered in the hall for our prayer service for Remembrance Day. Our service was led by our Student Voice team. We began by bringing symbols forward as a focus for our sacred space. A cross to remind us of all soldiers and civilians, who like Jesus, gave their lives unselfishly for others. Our three flags remind us that this is a national day of prayer for peace and we pray for those who have died or were injured at war. A candle that reminds us of the members of armed forces, who showed courage to defend our country, on the land, the sea and the sky. A wreath of poppies was laid down to remind us that these flowers began to grow on the battlefields during and after the war. It allows us to pay our respect for those who have fallen. The reverence and respect shown throughout the service was outstanding and a privilege to witness.
The season of Advent begins on the 3rd of December this year. Advent is the start of the new liturgical year and is celebrated on the four Sundays before Christmas day. It is a time to slow down from the busyness of our lives and redirect our thoughts towards our preparation for Christmas. Each week we have a new focus as we light the Advent candles on the Advent wreath.
“In the first week, Catholics will light the first candle. This signifies hope as it is commonly known as the “Prophet’s candle” and signals that Jesus is coming.
On the second Sunday, a candle is lit to celebrate peace. This is based on the everlasting love of God, and it is also commonly referred to as the “Bethlehem” candle. This reminds everyone that Mary and Joseph undertook the journey to Bethlehem.
On the third Sunday of Advent, it is traditional to celebrate Joy with the “Shepherds” candle. This third Sunday is also called Gaudete Sunday, and a literal translation here is to “rejoice.” It is a Sunday to remember Mary as the mother of Jesus.
On the fourth Sunday, the candle symbolises love and is known as the “Angels” candle. The simple message here from the angels is “peace on earth and goodwill towards men.” https://catholiccaredbb.org.au/advent-2021/
This year as we enter the season of Advent classes will participate in prayer sessions each week in their classrooms.
The focus will be on the Jesse Tree.
The Jesse Tree is decorated with symbols as scripture is read from the Bible starting with the book of Genesis with Adam and Eve to the birth of Jesus. The stories tell of how the prophets prepared for the coming of Jesus.
The Moorabbin conference for the St Vincent de Paul Society works to support those in our local community that are vulnerable throughout the year providing assistance. They continue to visit people in their homes or within Assistance Centres to provide support, friendship and material assistance. This year for the Christmas Appeal the St Vinnie’s team are asking for donations of Woolworth and Coles gift cards. If you would like to support the appeal please send along your donations to the office by Friday 8th December.
Wellbeing
Throughout this term our survey results from our Wellbeing health checks with our Year 3 -6 students has indicated that many of our students have found sleep an area of concern. As we head towards the end of the busy year and preparing for the new school year in 2024 the following articles may be of interest to you from the https://raisingchildren.net.au/ website. Waking up refreshed is the perfect start to everyday. When children can concentrate, remember things and behave in positive ways, they’re likely to learn well.