Dear Families, 

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of activity at Our Lady of Lourdes, with students engaged in learning, events, and the daily rhythm of school life. As we settle into the term, this week marks the beginning of Lent, a season of reflection, prayer, and preparation. It is a time to pause, refocus, and consider how we can grow in faith and kindness. May this Lenten journey be a meaningful one for our school community.  #LentBegins #FaithInAction

Shrove Tuesday

During Breakfast Club, our students enjoyed delicious pancakes as we marked Shrove Tuesday, the traditional feast day before the season of Lent begins. 

Shrove Tuesday is a time for preparation, reflection, and giving, reminding us of the importance of kindness, gratitude, and community. It was wonderful to see so many happy faces as we shared this special tradition together! Thank you to Mrs. Giliberto, our chaplain and breakfast coordinator, and her amazing helpers for the fantastic job they do each week!

Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a special time when we prepare our hearts for Easter by becoming closer to God. This year is also a Year of Jubilee—a time to remember God’s love for everyone, apologise for our mistakes and start fresh. Ashes on our foreheads in the shape of a cross symbolise our belonging to God, expressing our remorse for past wrongs and our readiness to start anew with Jesus’ assistance. Thanks to Father John, the staff, and the students who participated in the liturgy. 

Project Compassion

Project Compassion inspires communities to come together to raise much-needed funds for the most vulnerable women, children and men in Australia and worldwide. Over the coming weeks, the school is raising money for Project Compassion. Each child from Prep to 6 should have brought a Project Compassion Box home.  Here are two ideas for children to raise funds for their box at home:

• Donating their frozen cup/tuckshop money 
• Donating money earned from chores around the house

First Week of Lent  (week beginning Monday 10th March)

This Lent, we’re invited to Unite Against Poverty with Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion. This year is especially significant as we celebrate the Jubilee Year - a time of renewal and solidarity.

Project Compassion 2025 shares three stories from around the world. We’ll meet Toefuata'iga - (Toy-foo-ah-tah-ing-ah) a young student from Samoa who faced severe water shortages at her school. Thanks to Caritas Australia and the generosity of supporters like you, her school now has a 10,000 L water tank improving hygiene and allowing the teachers to prioritise education.

We’ll get to know Lam from Vietnam, born with short stature, Lam faced social exclusion and limited employment opportunities – through the I-SHINE program, Lam is now a freelance graphic designer.

In addition, we’ll meet Irene from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) who faced immense challenges after losing her father to war and raising her children in poverty. With support from Caritas Australia, Irene received vocational training in sewing and farming and can now support her whole family.

Watch our Introduction to Project Compassion film HERE - be inspired by 3 powerful stories of resilience and strength, and learn the impact that your support can have on vulnerable communities around the world.

                                                 Please donate today.

You can support Project Compassion 2025 through the donation boxes, envelopes or by scanning the QR code above.
Or online at: caritas.org.au/project-compassion
Or by calling: 1800 024 413

Holy Spirit Catholic School’s Generous Book Donation

A heartfelt thank you to Holy Spirit Catholic School for their generous donation of $1,000 worth of reading books to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School to support families affected by the recent flooding. Your kindness and generosity will make a real difference in the lives of our students, bringing comfort and joy through the gift of reading. We are truly grateful for your support during this challenging time. #CommunitySupport #Gratitude #FaithInAction

Have a wonderful week!

A Lenten Prayer 

Faithful God, 

help us to listen to your Son Jesus

 as we journey through life. 

Help us to always seek your presence each day

 with sincere hearts.

  We ask this in Jesus’ name.

Amen. 

God Bless

Moris