Dear Parents and Carers,

Yesterday, we recognised NAIDOC Week with a prayer liturgy led by Year 1. NAIDOC Week is celebrated from the 7th July to 14th July each year, which happens to fall in the school holidays. NAIDOC stands for National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Observance Committee, and this year’s theme is “Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud!”. We thank Miss Sarah Jebb for her preparation and guidance in this event.

As previously mentioned, we will offer Sacramental programs for First Holy Communion (Year 3) and Confirmation (Year 5/6) next term. An information note regarding enrolment in these programs was sent home with each student last fortnight. If your child intends on participating in the program and you have not returned the consent note to school, please contact the front office or myself ASAP. Preparation sessions for First Holy Communion will begin on Wednesday 24th July (first day of Term 3 for students), with students receiving the sacrament on Saturday 17th August. The Sacrament of Confirmation will follow this with preparation sessions beginning on Wednesday 21st August and the sacrament on Saturday 14th September.

Yours in faith,
Shaye Cooper
Religious Education Coordinator (Acting)

NAIDOC Week Prayer

Dear God,
Eternal Creator, source of all that is good.

During this NAIDOC Week,

“Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud!”,

we contemplate the richness of First Nation Australians who embody resilience and wisdom,

passed down through generations.

Teach us to honour these traditions,

to walk alongside them with respect and understanding,

and to advocate for their rights and dignity in our nation.

Grant us the courage to pursue justice and reconciliation,

in the name of Jesus Christ,

who calls us to unity and compassion,

in harmony with the Holy Spirit,

now and forever.

Amen.