On the Fourth Sunday of Lent, we listen to the story of the Prodigal son (Luke 15:1-3, 11-32).  We all know how good we feel when we say “sorry” and make up after a quarrel.  Jesus told the story of the Prodigal Son, who took his share of his inheritance from his father because he wanted to enjoy it now.  He wasted his time and money and eventually ended up with nothing.  The parable not only reminds us to make good use of our time but shows that when we forgive and are forgiven, we can find true peace and happiness with each other.  On the weekend, students from our school and the Holy Spirit Parish attended their first workshop for the Sacramental Programme.  The focus was Reconciliation as students will receive this sacrament this Thursday evening.  The story of the Prodigal Son was discussed with the students and is a good example of how we can forgive and be forgiven.  Please keep these students in your prayers.

This week our Holy Spirit Value is ‘Mercy’.  The Founder of the Sisters of Mercy, The Venerable Mother Catherine McAuley, is displayed prominently on the side of the Lynch Family Hall.  She was a guiding light with her testimony of faith, holiness and hope as she ministered to the poor and disadvantaged.  Our school was joined by the Sisters of Mercy in 1971 and their charism of mercy and justice is just as important to us today.  Pope Francis said:  ‘People today…need us to bear witness to the mercy and tenderness of the Lord which warms the heart, rekindles hope, and attracts people towards the good.’   This week we pray our students be merciful towards other by encouraging them to show compassion and take the time to show kindness to others.  

This week’s Project Compassion story is that of Shaniella who is from the Solomon Islands.  Shaniella was determined to forge a path out of poverty, moving away to a rural vocational school.  With your support, she was able to overcome the challenges of natural disasters and gain the skills she needs to create a brighter future for herself.  For more information on Shaniella’s story, visit https://www.caritas.org.au/project-compassion/shaniella-story/

Project Compassion Easter Raffle:  A book of tickets was sent home yesterday with the eldest in the family to raise funds for Project Compassion.  There will be a first, second and third prize.  Additional tickets will be available in our Office at the Front Reception.  The raffle will be drawn at our Easter Liturgy next Friday morning.  Our donations can help train students in disaster risk reduction, provide chickens to help boost food security and install water tanks to help improve access to clean water. Good luck everyone and thank you for your generosity in supporting Project Compassion where little donations go a long way helping those in need, like Shaniella in the Solomon Islands.  

God bless

Caroline Fuller