Newman News Term 1 Week 4: From the Director of Mission and Catholic Identity

The faith life of our College continues to strive as we look to offer authentic experiences for our students in line with our Vision for Mission: to form good Christians and good Citizens. Our staff and students have continued to reflect on our Marist Theme: Known and Loved – Dignity for All as we consider how we respond to the current challenges posed in schools through our Marist Characteristics. The following reflection was shared with staff and students on Monday. Living with Covid in the Marist way.

Key Dates – 2022

Click here to view the College Calendar.

Year 12 Retreat 

A different experience for our students in 2022, yet still powerful and life giving. Students engaged in a variety of activities that encouraged them to reflect on who they are, what they value and the type of person they want to be. I wish to thank PCG and other staff who attended the three days and journeyed with our students in the conversation. Particular thanks to Mat Puljiz, Leader of Wellbeing Year 12, Aleisha Bryson, Leader of Youth Ministry & Advocacy, Liam Street, Marist Youth Minister, Donna McFadden, Canteen Manager and the Maintenance Team.

Community Mass 

Mass continued in Week 4 and will continue on Thursday morning for particular year groups. This is only open to staff and students at Newman College. Unfortunately, parents are not able to attend at this time due to current restrictions. We welcome local parish priests who continue to serve our Newman College community and offer spiritual nourishment for our community.

Game Changers 

Tuesday Week 5, Game Changers commences again for all students in Year 8-12. Groups gather Tuesday afternoon with their mentors and begin their new track for 2022. Any questions about Game Changers or to get your child involved with Game Changers, please contact Aleisha Bryson, Leader of Youth Ministry and Advocacy.

A snapshot of what Game Changer can be found here.

Project Compassion 2022 

The theme for 2022 is For All Future Generations.  Caritas is responsible for supporting many communities around the world and Project Compassion is their main fundraiser to support their projects.

During lent we will be joining many Australians in raising money for Project Compassion and the funds raised will help support vulnerable communities around the world to tackle poverty, food security, education, water and sanitation and disaster risk reduction to build a better future for all.

Lent

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Church’s season of Lent. In 2022 Ash Wednesday is 2 March 2022. As a Catholic community, Lent prepares us for the season of Easter, the most important time in the Church’s calendar. It encourages us to spend time in prayer, fasting and almsgiving and by doing so we are reminded Jesus’ death and resurrection. Jesus brought the promise of hope to all people so that we may “Have life and have it to the full.” (John 10:10).

Shrove Tuesday 

The Catholic Church has a tradition to celebrate Shrove Tuesday prior to Ash Wednesday. Shrove Tuesday is a day to celebrate before we begin the season of fasting. Historically, it has been celebrated by eating pancakes. We will be selling pancakes on Tuesday 1 March across the College to begin our fundraising for Project Compassion and to continue this fun tradition of our Church.

  • Marcellin Sales before school 8:15-8:45
    $2 ea or 3 for $5 Maple syrup included
    Eft will be available
  • Lavalla sold during Recess from Lavalla canteen.
    $2 ea or 3 for $5 Maple syrup included
  • Marian sold/distributed during class in beginning of the day.
    $2

Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday will be celebrated across the College through classroom teachers and PCG teachers. Students will be able to receive ashes following the latest covid advice that was distributed via the Vatican on how to appropriately distribute ashes. Marian and Lavalla students will be celebrating their liturgy at the beginning of the day. Marcellin students will be celebrating during extended PCG.

Confirmation Retreat

On Thursday 3 March, our Year 6 students will be participating in their Confirmation Retreat, facilitated by 24:7 Youth Ministry. This is an opportunity to reflect on what it means to receive the sacrament of Confirmation and how this will impact their life. This is a significant moment in the life of our Year 6 students, and I encourage all our parents to begin the conversation with their child about their sacramental journey.