Sunday Gospel: Fourth Sunday of Advent, Year A. Matthew 1:18-24

In Matthew’s Gospel the focus of Jesus’ birth is on Joseph. It is Joseph who receives an annunciation that the child has been conceived through the power of the Holy Spirit. It is interesting to read the story from this perspective.

In this Gospel, we see that Jesus begins his life as do many children, in the midst of anxiety, hope and much that is unknown. The future lies hidden from Joseph, as the future of any child lies hidden from its parents. Joseph trusts this future into God’s hands. Perhaps this is the image we adults need at Christmas. When we look at the crib scenes of the child resting peacefully in a manger, or the arms of Mary, dare we believe that even as adults we can rest as peacefully in the arms of God? Adult and child are one in this divine birth of Emmanuel, God-with-us.

Year 6 Graduation Mass

On Friday, 13^th December at 12:00pm, the Sts Peter and Paul community celebrated the Graduation of our Year Six students with a Mass. Families and Staff that are leaving in 2019 were also honoured. It was a wonderful and prayerful celebration. Thank you to Fr John, Mrs Kain and the Stage Three team for all of their contributions to this celebration.

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal

Thank you to all families who contributed to this year’s St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal. There are many families in our local Woden area who will benefit greatly from our community’s generosity. On Tuesday of this week, Tony from the local St Vincent de Paul Conference attended morning assembly and collected our contributions, thanking the children on behalf of St Vincent de Paul.

Children’s Liturgy

A reminder that Children’s liturgy will be happening at Sts Peter and Paul Catholic Church’s 9:30 Sunday Mass this week. All children who are Primary school aged (and smaller if they bring a parent/carer) are welcome to attend.

Dates for your Diary:

Sunday 22^nd December – Children’s Liturgy will run during regular Sunday Mass 9:30am at Garran

Blessings for a safe holiday break, 

Stephanie Burns

Religious Education Coordinator