Religious Education with Mrs. Skelly
Get Ready for Jesus’ Birthday
This Sunday is the third Sunday of Advent and it is traditionally called Gaudete Sunday. Gaudete means “rejoice” in Latin. At the beginning of this Sunday’s Mass we say: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say, rejoice! The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:4,5). And we light the pink candle on our Advent wreath.
During the Christmas season most of us like to rejoice by spending more on presents, food, decorations etc. It is a time for spending, partying and lots of giving. Our God was extremely giving when he gave us the gift of Jesus… but Jesus came in plain wrapping—he was the infant of two poor migrants. (Who very likely would be turned away from Australian shores in this day and age!) There was no designer cot for Jesus; not even the comforts of home. But the gift of that child was so rich and fine, that poor shepherds and educated wise men from far countries, were all drawn to him with tears of joy. And over the following 2021 years countless others, like Mary Mackillop, have been drawn to His message of peace and love.
So perhaps this Christmas we could think about giving ourselves in addition to giving ‘stuff.’
What kind of presence am I to those I love? How can I give myself as a present to others? Am I aware of God’s presence in my life? We tend to forget that God’s presence is enough to meet our innermost desires. This Christmas season is a great time to spend more time in God’s peaceful presence; and more time exploring the power and wonder of our own presence with others. What better present can we give to our Lord and each other!
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Christmas O God, we thank you for the message of peace and giving that Christmas brings to our distracted world. Help us to give of ourselves – willingly, unselfishly, peacefully, joyfully. Give peace among nations, peace in our land, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts, as we remember that you gave us yourself when you gave us Jesus the Prince of peace, in Bethlehem |
A few suggestions for special gifts:
A warm welcome
Time for a phone conversation
A firm handshake to a shaky soul
A kind word to a lonely person
A warm smile to the disheartened
A sincere concern for someone troubled
Compassion for the neglected
Comforting words for the bereaved
A word of witness to help a seeking soul
A patient and non-judgemental listening ear
Wishing you all joy and peace this Christmas season
St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal
Many thanks to those who supported our St Vinnies Christmas appeal. St Vinnies staff were overwhelmed by the generosity of St Mary’s School community this morning when they received our donations.
In Appreciation
St Mary’s School Community wishes to thank Fr Joshy, Fr Alex and Sr Rosemary for their wonderful nurturing support and for guiding us on our Faith journey this year. We also warmly welcome Fr Joseph who will be with us for the next 6 months.
