As we move through Term 3, there are several beautiful opportunities for our school and parish communities to come together in faith, fellowship and celebration.

We warmly invite all families to join us for our upcoming Whole School Liturgy in honour of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia’s first saint. This special liturgy will be held on Wednesday, 6 August at 9:00am in the school hall, and will be led by our Year 2 students. We encourage all families to attend as we reflect on the life and legacy of St Mary, who reminds us to "never see a need without doing something about it."

Additionally, we are pleased to share the following parish events:

• St Mary MacKillop Feast Day Parish Mass – Thursday 8 August at 11:00am. Held at St Patrick’s, Araluen, this Mass will celebrate the life of St Mary MacKillop. Please bring a chair or picnic rug and a plate of food to share afterwards as we enjoy lunch and time in fellowship within the peaceful surroundings of Araluen.

Today, our First Nations students, accompanied by Miss Millsom and Ms Farley, had the special opportunity to attend the NAIDOC Week Mass in Goulburn. This meaningful celebration brought together students from across the region to honour and reflect on the rich history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our students proudly represented St Bede’s and were able to share the experience with a nominated friend, deepening the spirit of inclusion and community. Following the Mass, Tyrone R in Year 6 and Fallon H in Year 5 were both presented with NAIDOC Week awards which recognised their deep commitment to various aspects of school life. The NAIDOC Awards celebrate and elevate the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples within our school communities, and we are incredibly proud of both Tyrone and Fallon!

We look forward to celebrating these upcoming special occasions as a school and parish community, united in the spirit of faith, service, and love.

Hayley Millsom & Bridget Bradley

Religious Education Coordinators (Acting)