On Sunday we commenced the Church season of Advent. Last week, our students in Prep to Year 2 reminded us through their liturgies that Advent is a time of waiting.

Recently, I gathered with friends for a pre-Christmas catch up, as we waited for our meal, we shared information about family members and our plans for Christmas. At a nearby table, sat a young couple also waiting for their meal but heavily focused on their phones.

It has become common for many of us that while we wait we use our phones to catch up on emails, check diaries and the like. I am often appreciative of the waiting time to do just that, but what do we miss? Sometimes it is the opportunity to engage with someone nearby and perhaps even learn something new.

I once was waiting in Grand Central Station in New York. While my fellow traveller checked in on Facebook, I chatted to a woman who informed me that for $5 we could be escorted to our train, board and be seated, prior to other passengers boarding the train – money well spent!

Advent is an opportunity to wait, reflect on the coming of the Christ child and engage with God through those around us.

Each year, the school historian collects the stories of the school year to capture our history. This year we will have an electronic version which we will make available to families. Perhaps if you have some waiting time you might like to reflect on the past twelve months.

Thank you for your contribution to our school community throughout 2018, if you have shared some good news about our school or promoted us through Facebook or helped us in any aspect of school life your effort is appreciated.

Wishing you joy and peace this Christmas, God bless!

 

Geraldine