Heroes of Faith

Walk Humbly

Walk in Wisdom 

Welcome to Week 9. As Term 3 draws to a close, we keep in mind our Year 6

students who are preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Year 6 students are currently working on ‘Saints’ projects, which involves identifying with a Saint whose values inspire them to be disciples of Jesus.

The Saints, which students have chosen, have all answered the call to serve God and their community. An important aspect in receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation is to commit to serving the community and to answer God’s call to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.

Some of the Saints our Year 6 students are learning about:

Saint Bernadette ~ St. Bernadette was born in Lourdes, France on January 7, 1844. Her parents were very poor and she was the first of nine children. As a toddler, Bernadette contracted cholera and suffered extreme asthma. Unfortunately, she lived the rest of her life in poor health. St Bernadette is the patron saint of illness and poverty.

How can we, as a community, answer the call to support those who are sick and those who do not have the basic needs of food, clothing and shelter?

St George ~Very little is known about St. George’s life, but it is thought he was a high ranking officer in the Roman army who was killed in around AD 303. St. George is the patron saint of England, farmers and shepherds. Stories of his strength and courage soon spread throughout Europe. St George was a man of strong faith who saved Christians who were being persecuted.

In England St. George’s Day is celebrated, and his flag flown, on his feast day, April 23rd.

In what ways can you strengthen your own faith?

St Marie ~ St Marie was one of seven children, of whom three of her siblings went into religious life. Her mother died when St Marie was seven, and her father was forced to move to find work. Another village family adopted her. When she was 15, St Marie joined the Institute of Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, taking the name Marie Amandine. She worked as a nurse in Marseilles, France then in the mission hospital and orphanage in Taiyuanfu, China. St Marie is the patron saint of laughter!

How can you bring joy and laughter to those you work with today?

St Sebastian ~ According to his legend, St sebastian was born in Gaul, went to Rome, and joined (c. 283) the army of the emperor Carinus, later becoming a captain under Diocletian. When it was discovered that he was a Christian who had converted many soldiers, Sebastian was ordered to be killed by arrows. St Sebastian is the patron saint of athletes as well as the patron saint of archers.

How can I show others how to be a good sport? Do I play fairly and encourage others to do the same?

There are any opportunities throughout our day when we can answer God’s call to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with those in our family, work place and community.

Lastly, I would like to thank Year 5/6 White students for the leadership shown in planning and preparing for Prayer Assembly to be celebrated this Friday.

May you all enjoy the rest of Term 3 and holidays with your family.

Donna Victory
Religious Education Coordinator