Pentecost Sunday marks the end of the Easter Season on the Church Calendar. In John’s Gospel, Jesus comes to his small group of terrified disciples, hiding in a locked room and offers peace with the gift of the Holy Spirit. This peace transforms the disciples into a community of believers who go forth to preach to the world the very mission that had led to the crucifixion of Jesus! Pentecost is a good time to stop and acknowledge the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives, to take stock of how we are using our gifts and talents to the very best of our ability.

This week at Holy Spirit we value compassion, meaning sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others. Compassion gives us the ability to understand someone else's situation and the desire to take action to improve their lives. It is the quality that allows us to step outside of ourselves and see the circumstances of others. It supplies the will power to do what is necessary to make the world a more caring place. This week, we pray our students show compassion to those around them.

Next Friday, we celebrate Holy Spirit Day. Our day begins with a Liturgy led by our Term 2 School Captains. Everyone is welcome to join us for the Liturgy and stay on for SPIRIT Steps.

The Feast of Mary, Help of Christians is May 24 th . Mary Help of Christians is the Patron Saint of Australia and also of the Townsville Diocese. When the Bishops of Australia met for their first synod, in 1844, they decided that under the title “Help of Christians”, Our Lady should become the Patroness of the Australian Church. Mary has long been recognised for her powerful role as intercessor to her Son, Jesus, for the needs of the faithful and their protection.

Mary Help of Christians

Patroness of Australia & Townsville Diocese

Almighty God, deepen in our hearts
our love of Mary Help of Christians.
Through her prayers and under her protection,
may the light of Christ shine over our land.
May Australia be granted harmony, justice and peace.
Grant wisdom to our leaders and integrity to our citizens.
Bless especially the men and women
of the Australian Defence Force and their families.
We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
Mary, Help of Christians, pray for us.

God bless.

Caroline Fuller