RE News
Pentecost
This coming Sunday, the season of Easter concludes with the feast of Pentecost. On Pentecost we celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles gathered
in the upper room in Jerusalem; this event marks the beginning of the Church. The story of Pentecost is found in the Acts of the Apostles, (Acts of the Apostles 2:1-11) and is the first first reading on Sunday. The Gospel, (John 20:19-23), also recounts how Jesus gave the gift of the Holy Spirit to his disciples. We previously heard this Gospel on the second Sunday of Easter. This reading reminds us about the connection between the gifts of peace and forgiveness and the action of the Holy Spirit. Jesus greets his disciples with the gift of peace. Jesus then commissions his disciples to continue the work that he has begun, “As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” As he breathes the Holy Spirit upon them, Jesus sends his disciples to continue his work of reconciliation through the forgiveness of sins.
This Gospel reminds us that the Church is called to be a reconciling presence in the world. This reconciling presence of Christ is celebrated in the Church's sacramental life. In the Sacrament of Baptism, we are washed clean from sin and become a new creation in Christ. In the Sacrament of Penance, the Church celebrates the mercy of God in forgiving sins. This reconciling presence is also to be a way of life for Christians. In situations of conflict, we are to be agents of peace and harmony among people.
Student Prayer Focus
Our Student Prayer Focus this week centres on the story of Pentecost. This week we have tried a new thinking routine called Colour, Symbol, Image which allows students to come to the essence of ideas nonverbally.
As a part of our Student Prayer Focus this week you will see that a red leaf is being added to our trees in each class prayer space. The red leaf symbolises Pentecost. On each leaf a word or phrase is written which symbolise how each class member will work to glorify Christ with their life during the week.
How will you Glorify Christ with your life this week?
Sacramental Information
Sacrament of First Holy Communion
It was wonderful to see many school and parish families come together last Saturday evening for the second preparation session for the Sacrament of First Holy Communion.
Please contact Father Paul if you have any questions about sacraments at:
paul_nulley@hotmail.com
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Holy Communion Classes (Year 4 and older) |
5.15pm in the Hall followed by Mass at 6.00pm in the Church Saturday 18 May Saturday 1 June Saturday 8 June Saturday 15 June |
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Sacrament of First Holy Communion |
Sunday 23 June 9am |
Yours in Christ,
Melanie Stratford
Religious Education Coordinator