Beginning of Year Mass - Friday 14th February – 9am in the Church 

At our Beginning of Year Mass on Friday 14th February, we will have the commissioning and blessing of staff, students and parents as well as the presentation of the Year 6 leaders’ shirts and badges for those with additional responsibility.  All parents and carers are very welcome and encouraged to join us.   At our liturgical celebrations, participating in the singing and responses is the way that we can engage and respect the spiritual encounter of those present.  We need to be mindful that the Church is a sacred place for prayer and worship for Catholics and refraining from talking and drinking coffees is most appropriate in this context. We appreciate your support with these small but important acts of respect.   Congratulations to our Year 6 students who are already stepping up and showing their amazing leadership capacity!  

Religious Life of the School Term 1 2025 

Catholic Identity: The Importance of Prayer and Worship in Our Catholic School Community 

For Catholic schools, Prayer and Worship provide an opportunity for students, staff and parents to celebrate their life and identity as members of the Church. Prayer and worship help create a sense of purpose and identity and draw the school community into an understanding of our shared humanity, links us with the Church throughout the world, and invites us to share the Good News.  (BCE Religious Education Curriculum) 

At Our Lady Help of Christians school, prayer and worship are central to who we are as a Catholic school community. Prayer and Worship provide us with an opportunity to connect with God, reflect on our values, and strengthen our sense of belonging. While many of our students and families come from diverse religious traditions, our shared commitment to faith, respect, and community allows us to journey together in a spirit of openness and understanding. 

Prayer is more than just words—it is a moment of stillness, gratitude, and guidance or discernment. Whether through morning prayers, liturgical celebrations, or quiet reflection, these practices help us centre our hearts on what is important. Worship, in turn, brings us together as a faith-filled community, reminding us that we are part of something greater than ourselves. 

For those who are Catholic, these moments deepen our relationship with God. For those from different faith backgrounds, they provide an opportunity to experience the values of love, peace, and compassion that are at the heart of our mission. The Catholic tradition teaches us to respect and embrace the diversity of our community, and we welcome all to participate in ways that are meaningful for them. 

As we continue our school year, let’s remember that prayer and worship are not just rituals but vital parts of our identity. They nurture our spirit, strengthen our community, and guide us in living out Gospel values including respect, love, mercy and service to others. 

Our school strives to always be a place where faith and learning flourish, and where every student feels included and supported on his/her journey. 

I look forward to seeing our community come together for the Parent Information Evenings and Our Beginning of Year Liturgy this week.