To our school community, I warmly welcome you back to the routine and joy that is school life at Holy Spirit Catholic School. As I sit at my desk and look over our term ahead, it fills me with joy to see the many opportunities for our students, staff and families to come together in prayer, hospitality and service. From our recent NAIDOC celebrations in the Hall, Challenge Games this week and in the coming weeks, school photos, whole school gatherings, P&F meetings, Book Week, school camps, class masses, sacramental program for students in Year 3 and up and Child Protection Week. I look forward to seeing as many people as possible in these times of community.

This week, from our readings from our parish Mass, we’re reminded of two powerful stories from the Bible—Abraham and Martha—where God's people showed kindness by welcoming others. These stories teach us an important lesson: being open and welcoming to others is part of how we follow God.

In each story, the people offering hospitality didn’t know right away that they were welcoming someone special. It’s a reminder that God can come into our lives in ways we don’t expect. It might be through a stranger asking for help, a friend who needs someone to listen, or a co-worker who surprises us with their kindness. When we are open and generous to others, we are more likely to see the good—and maybe even the sacred—right in front of us.

Life today can be busy and full of responsibilities. We may not always feel we have time to slow down and reflect, like Mary did when she sat with Jesus. But at the same time, we shouldn’t let our to-do lists control us completely. Balancing service to others with an open heart can help us grow and build stronger, more loving communities.

This is how we help bring goodness—and God's love—into the world, one small act at a time.

Have a fantastic week and thank you for all you do in our school community.

Strength in the Spirit

Paul Martin