Last Sunday we celebrated the Holy Spirit Festival of The Arts. Students from Year 3 to Year 6 performed for parents, grandparents and family members.

For many students their nerves were almost tangible and yet they placed themselves in the vulnerable position of singing solos or duets, playing a musical instrument or presenting a poem or a play for an audience. Some children even performed in more than one area of The Arts!

As I enjoyed the performances, yes even the recorders (who were excellent), I realised many of these children are also skilled in other arenas. Families are critical in providing children with experiences to excel. Nurturing opportunities and encouraging children to persevere is one of the greatest gifts we can give children. 

Congratulations to the students who performed, well done to the instrumental teachers and bouquets to the family members who nurture the talent, encourage children to practise and attend the performance!

In my second last newsletter I have decided to share some quotes which come from mentors and family members.

‘Treat others as you would want them to treat you’ - Jesus

‘A little bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just’ - Pope Francis

‘The less said in anger the easier mended’ - my mum

‘Don’t buy a ticket in a pig in a bag’ - my dad

‘Use less words’ - a clever mentor and former principal of Holy Spirit

‘Believe half of what my child says about me and I’ll believe half of what my child says about you!’ - A parent from my early years of teaching.

‘Spirituality - children that are bound to a belief system feel a sense of connectedness and part of something bigger than themselves’ - Child psychologist, Dr. Michael Carr-Gregg.

Relationships Australia identifies Christmas as one of the most stressful times for families. Children too can be stressed at this time, in North Queensland we add the heat and humidity to the mix. 

As we draw to the close of the school year please check emails, Compass, Facebook and our letters to ensure you don’t miss the key events.

Our Carols evening commences at 6 pm tomorrow evening, Santa will be available for photos from 5pm. BYO torch, chair or picnic rug, food and drink.

NB Food, drink and Santa hats will be on sale.

God bless,

Geraldine