The Parable of the Talents, reminds us that God has given talents to each one of us

that are gifts from God.  Three men were each given a different number of talents.  The first man used his talents well and doubled them; the second also worked hard and used them wisely but the third felt that he had little to offer and hid his talent away and did not use it.  Each of our students has differing gifts or skills and we are challenged as parents and teachers to encourage and guide our children to develop them and use them wisely.  A good attitude and pride in doing their best allows children to grow to be the best that they can be as a person and life-long learner.

This week at Holy Spirit we value reverence which is defined as a feeling or attitude of deep respect for someone or something.  It is often tinged with awe and can describe how we treat someone to show them intense respect.  This value inclines a person to show honour and respect through their actions.  During the course of the year, our students have many opportunities to show their reverence, especially during prayer and we pray they continue to show reverence to God by striving to follow His holy will.  

Today is Remembrance Day, which was originally called Armistice Day, commemorated the end of the hostilities for the Great War (World War I), the signing of the armistice, which occurred on November 11, 1918 – the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.  On this day, we remember the sacrifices of the Australians who have served our country to make it a peaceful place to live and give thanks for their courage and sacrifices for our benefit.

Today, we also remember Blessed Catherine McAuley.  In the evening of Thursday, November 11, 1841, Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy, died at  the Convent of Mercy on Baggot Street, Dublin—the first of twelve convents she had established in the preceding decade.  By the time of Mother Catherine's death in 1841, there were 100 Sisters of Mercy in ten foundations.  The Sisters have since spread throughout the world continuing their mercy works to bring education and care to the poor and sick.  Our school continues to incorporate the mercy values espoused by Catherine McAuley in all that we do. 

Mercy Reflection:

May you meet mercy each day in light of your own heart,

At the hands of your loved ones,

In the eyes of the stranger and the needy and if by chance you do not at first meet it,

Then search your own heart for it, listen patiently for word of it and it will tap you on the shoulder;

A quiet surprise, a small gesture and tender look, given and received in the encounters of your day! 

(Mary Wickham rsm)

God bless.

Caroline Fuller