We all have to make choices in our daily lives. Our students make choices each day about behaviour, their learning, their friendships, the list is endless. In Sunday’s Gospel (Mark 13:24- 29, 32), Jesus tells us He will return at the end of time, so we must always keep ourselves ready, by trying to live each day in the way Jesus showed us, with goodness and love towards our neighbour. For our students, these are the people around us. 

To think before we act or speak, ensures we make good choices most of the time. We encourage our students to make choices to be organised and ready to be the best they can so they can make optimal use of their learning time. 

This week at Holy Spirit we value justice. Justice, for many people, refers to fairness. We should always be looking to discover ways in which we are called to be people for others. We are called to: show dignity to others; help those in need with the essentials required for a decent life (food, clothing and shelter); pay special attention to the needs of those who are poor; care for one another; care for all that God has made. This week, we pray that our students and families recognise the needs of others, especially those who need our help.

Next week, classes will receive information about their collection for the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Hamper. Each year, we donate Christmas goodies to St Vincent De Paul to distribute to those in need in our community. We ask that all students begin collecting suitable items for the Christmas Hampers. If we all generously put in a little something, we end up with quite a large donation to help those less fortunate than ourselves. What better way to open our hearts to those in need this Christmas? These will be presented at our Christmas Liturgy in the last week of school. Students will be provided with items to be included in our Christmas Hampers this year. As I was once reminded at a Christmas Appeal Launch, “Let’s make the festive season a brighter one for those less fortunate.” 

Lord Jesus, teach me by your example…
Make me, through all of my efforts, be a shining light to all

people and all things around me.
I want to always do things that make you happy.
Look over me and please give me the strength and the
wisdom to continue to do your work on earth.

Amen.

(based upon words from St Vincent)

God bless.
Caroline Fuller