Principal's Newsletter
Newsletter Thursday 16th November, 2023
We the staff of St Patrick’s acknowledge the traditional owners, the Kulin nations, of the land on which we learn and play.
We pay respects to the Aboriginal Elders, past and present, who are our teachers.
We thank them for taking care of children and country for countless generations.
Luke 17:20-25
The kingdom of God is among you
Asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was to come, Jesus gave them this answer, ‘The coming of the kingdom of God does not admit of observation and there will be no one to say, “Look here! Look there!” For, you must know, the kingdom of God is among you.’
He said to the disciples, ‘A time will come when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man and will not see it. They will say to you, “Look there!” or, “Look here!” Make no move; do not set off in pursuit; for as the lightning flashing from one part of heaven lights up the other, so will be the Son of Man when his day comes. But first he must suffer grievously and be rejected by this generation.’
Dear Parents, Carers and Guardians,
This week our students in Foundation, grades 1 and 2 have begun their swimming lessons at Splashes. I have enjoyed seeing them walking past my office each day on their way over and on their way back to school. How wonderful it is to see their beautiful faces and smiles as they continue to take advantage of all the wonderful opportunities that St Patrick’s offers to them.
We continue to hear about the devastation that is occurring in the Middle East. It is hard to fathom how humanity can continue to take the news of war and unrest. The Gospel talks about the Kingdom of God is among us. It is important for us to believe that our faith in God remains strong and that he will guide our way to peace. If we look at a verse 1 Peter 3:11:
They must turn from evil and do good; they must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.”
Let us continue to pray for all people caught up in conflict across the world. Pray for peace and understanding. Remember that life is precious and we need to look after one another.
God Bless,
Meg
If your child/ren will NOT be returning to St Patrick’s in 2024, please contact the office on office@stppakenham.catholic.edu.au at your earliest convenience.
BLUE TONGUED LIZARDS
We have 2 blue tongued lizards that we would like to see go to a family who would look after these amazing reptiles. They come with a special tank to house them. If you are interested please contact the school office on office@stppakenham.cahtolic.edu.au or call 5943 9000
Paddy’s Kitchen-Food Drive
Paddy’s Kitchen is an outreach program initiated by the parishioners of St. Patrick’s Church, Pakenham, to serve our community.
Students, staff and parents of St Patrick’s school have been playing an important role to reach out to the community by volunteering to help with cooking, serving and cleaning. This year our school as a part of the Advent giving program, will be doing a Paddy’s Food Drive to reach out to our beautiful Pakenham community.
Through this program, our school community makes it evident that, ‘The person is not only sacred but also social. Moreover, we believe we have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable people.’
One family - one item and we together can make a difference. Thank you.
List of items
- Cereal, oats, muesli bars
- Chocolates
- Biscuits
- 1 kg Rice bags
- Pasta
- sugar
- Pasta sauces.
- Canned tomatoes, fruits and soups
- Canned lentils, veggies, corn, chick peas
- Oil
- Vegemite
- Honey
- Pancake shakes.
- Gift cards for groceries also welcome.
2024 ENROLMENTS:
If you have a child beginning at St Patrick’s next year, please come to the office and get an enrolment form. If they are younger siblings beginning at St Patrick’s, you do still need to complete an enrolment form. If you know of any families living in our area and looking for a school, please tell them about us. If they wish to make an appointment to have a tour, they can contact the office on 5943 9000 or email us at office@stppakenham.catholic.edu.au
Church Building Project/Church car park pick up
Thanks so much to all of the parents for your cooperation of the new arrangements in the Church car Park. It is wonderful to have the support of our parents as we endeavour to set in place new routines for getting the students safely in their cars.
The main focus will always be the safety of our students and irresponsible behaviour and dangerous driving will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Thank you for your understanding in this matter. Please continue to check updates on PAM and the newsletter.