Dear Parents and Carers

“My Lord, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following your will does not necessarily mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you…I will not fear, for you are ever with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.”

Thomas Merton

Thomas Merton was a Trappist monk and one of the great spiritual masters of our time. He had a unique ability in being able to convey the mysteries of the spiritual life in a language accessible to all. He was inclusive and all embracing, with a very generous view of the human person, while also not shying away from the messiness of the human condition. In this short piece, he beautifully captures the confusion we can all face, particularly in midlife. His call to trust mirrors Jesus’ final moments when He too had nothing left to do but trust in His father. Perhaps Merton’s words speak to you in some way this week, within your own life journey.

Ash Wednesday

Merton’s words provide an excellent introduction to Ash Wednesday, which is next week. Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a period where we are called to, metaphorically speaking, stand before a mirror and ask ourselves how things stand with us and with God. Developing this sort of ability to reflect is essential I believe to developing a strong inner life, and of course it is not just for this reason we do it: it also develops our relationship with God. Our Mass next week begins at 12pm.

Reconciliation Information Night

A reminder for parents of students in Year 3 who are making their First Reconciliation that an information night is being held next Tuesday at 6.30pm at the Parish Centre at Curtin. One of the blessings of being part of a joint parish is sharing the Sacramental journey with students from Holy Trinity at Curtin, whose parents will also join us for the Information Night.

Swimming Carnival

Next Thursday we will be having our Swimming Carnival, for students in Years 2 – 6, at the Tuggeranong Leisure Centre. It promises to be a fun day. Volunteers are always needed; if you can volunteer some time on the day, please contact Mary De Smet via the front office. My thanks to Mary for her all of her organisation and great work in preparing the carnival.

School Community Council

Last night we held our first Community Council meeting for the year. Liesl Centenera has stepped down from the Council and the position of Chair and I would like to thank Liesl for all of her work and service to the Council, and through the Council, the school. Liesl has contributed a great deal – thank you. Also stepping down from the Council are Maggie Grove and Michael Gately. My thanks too to Maggie and Michael, for their years of service and dedication to the Council and school. We welcome to the Council Katherine Jones and Natasha Fenton, who will make invaluable contributions. Finally, I would like to welcome Thomas Mulligan to the position of Chair and Tegan Ingold to the position of Vice-Chair. 

Census Data

Included in this newsletter is a letter from the Federal Government concerning census data. Please read the letter and let the school know if you have any concerns.

Strategic Plan and Annual Improvement Plan

Finally, I am happy to advise the parent community that the Strategic Plan (until the end of 2022) and the Annual Improvement Plan (for 2020) are fast nearing completion, and will be available for viewing on the school’s website in the very near future.

Have a wonderful week with your families.

Best wishes

Cameron Johns

Principal