This morning as a whole school we gathered together for a short liturgy to celebrate the Feast of St Joseph. Joseph, along with Mary and Jesus, forms the Holy Family. He looked after Mary, cared for Jesus, and protected his family from danger. Joseph was a good man, an honest man, a gentle man, and a hard working man. Over the past 2000 years many people have been inspired by the life of St Joseph. In Australia, Mary MacKillop and Fr Julian Tenison Woods founded the ‘Sisters of St Joseph’. The Sisters of St Joseph travelled across Australia opening schools and hospitals, and tried to help people wherever they could. Our school, St Michael’s, was started by the Sisters of St Joseph back in 1891. And for many years our school was actually named St Joseph’s school.

As we move towards the half way point of Lent it is lovely that several students (families) have contributed to our Project Compassion appeal. Thank you very much for doing this. Please remember that the money raised will go directly to help people in need and encouraging children to donate some of their own money helps develop empathy and concern for others. Each class has a box for donations.

In the wake of the terrible events this past week in New Zealand, let us pray for an everlasting peace in our world. Pope Francis in the past has stated:

“Keep alive within us the flame of hope, so that with patience and perseverance we may opt for dialogue and reconciliation. May peace triumph at last, and may the words "division", "hatred" and "war" be banished from the heart of every man and woman. Lord, defuse the violence of our tongues and our hands. Renew our hearts and minds, so that the words which always bring us together will be that of: Shalom, Peace, Salaam!”

 Mr Richard Tuckwell, REC