Jesus, You came to this world with dreams and hopes that God has for all of us.  Your message to love God and to love one another went unheeded by many during your time on earth.  Help us to hear your message of love and forgiveness.  You forgave because you understood.  Help us to turn to you when we find it hard to forgive.  Amen. 

Dear Friends,

We have all had a wonderful start to Term 4 and we look forward to the many events happening in the next couple of months, especially our Fete which is fast approaching!  Please keep in your thoughts and prayers our Year 3 students in the Parish as they prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation in November. A reminder also that as the weather has certainly been warmer, all students should have fully transitioned into our summer uniform

I am sure many of you would have been surprised by the result of the Wentworth bi-election last weekend.  There has been much exposure about the subject of Religious Freedom, as a result of the media coverage during this time.  The following statement outlines Catholic Education's response to this and the position we respectfully uphold about Religious Freedom:  

Catholic schools stand alongside all schools in striving to meet the needs of our multi-faith and multi-cultural community. We welcome students, families and staff from all walks of life, of all faiths and none.

The reality of our Catholic schools is that they reflect their communities. Catholic schools are diverse and inclusive communities that strive to welcome all into a Catholic learning community of hope, joy and wonder.

Religious freedom is widely recognised as important in Australia. As is the right of parents to choose a school that best accords with their beliefs and meets the needs of their child.

It is important that the religious freedom of Catholic schools be recognised and this includes who they employ.

For teachers and staff in Catholic schools there is an expectation that teachers and staff support Catholic values and teachings at the school. All staff at Catholic schools are expected to support or refrain from undermining Catholic values and teachings at the school.

Changes to the legislation which will affect the approach of religious institutions, such as Catholic schools, to employment will have consequences for staff conditions and expectations currently expressed in Codes of Conduct, Enterprise Bargaining Agreements and other employment instruments.

Employment law and arrangements can be complex and it is unwise to rush changes. Any changes require consultation to ensure they achieve their intended outcomes.

Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn will continue to live out our commitment to be open to all who seek a Catholic education.

Please keep Trevor Hickman and his family (Elijah Yr 3 and Audrey Yr 5) in your prayers as Trevor's mother died recently.

With every best wish for a holy and peace-filled week ahead with your beautiful families,

Philippa