Combined Schools Mass
Last week we came together as a K-12 community with St Bernards and Carroll College, celebrating a lovely Combined Schools Mass during National Reconciliation Week. Thank you to Fr George and Fr Loi for celebrating the Mass for us and to all those involved in bringing together such a wonderful occasion for us to share. 

Confirmation
Our beautiful Confirmation students have made a positive start on their spiritual journey. This week, the students had the privilege of spending time with Father George, who led a heartfelt discussion on the importance of Confirmation. During their time together, they explored the significance of the sacrament, the various symbols associated with it, and what it means to reach maturity in their own faith journey. Confirmation is a pivotal moment in the life of a young Catholic, marking their full initiation into the Church and strengthening their bond with the Holy Spirit. Father George emphasised the following key points during their discussion:

• The Importance of Confirmation: This sacrament completes the grace of Baptism and provides the confirmed with the special strength of the Holy Spirit, enabling them to spread and defend the faith.
• Symbols of Confirmation: The laying on of hands, the anointing with Chrism oil, and the sign of peace are powerful symbols that signify the presence of the Holy Spirit and the commitment of the individual to the faith.
• Maturity in Faith: Confirmation calls the individual to a more mature faith, encouraging them to take greater responsibility for their spiritual growth and their role in the Church and the wider community.

As we at St Mary's prepare the following students for their Confirmation, we ask you to keep them in your prayers, supporting them as they continue on this journey of faith.

6 Maroon: Sophie A, Madison C, Felicity P, Leo S, Callum T and Blake R 

6 Blue: Sophie VW, Lila W, Elka H, Nathan W, Mitchell W, Spencer S,
Cooper C, James D, Xavier L, Benjamin P. 

May the Holy Spirit guide and strengthen them as they take this important step in their spiritual lives.

Grace and blessings on your path.

Mrs Jessica Afflick
Religious Education Coordinator