Siena Catholic Primary School
On Wednesday, our Siena family came together to celebrate the beginning of the school year with a beautiful Mass led by Fr Peter, Fr Will and Deacon Isaac. Based on our theme, ‘Be the Flame – Let your Light Shine’, the children, staff and parishioners all praised, thanked and asked God for guidance and courage this year as they ensure the light of God is the power that they live in their daily lives and interactions. The choir and school sang beautifully. Many thanks to Mrs Khoury for all the work in preparing both the choir and the classes and to Isobel Summit for accompanying the singing on the piano. It was lovely to share the Mass with the parishioners. Each Year level displayed their vision statements for the year. And these were blessed by Fr Peter. These visions, written and pledged by the students, are testimony to how they will ‘Be the Flame’ this year. It was a lovely celebration of the Eucharist which is central to our Catholic learning and teaching. May God continue to bless you this week.
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Stella Maris Primary School
Year 2 students were excited when Fr Peter, Deacon Isaac and Bernadette Baillie from the Maroochydore Parish visited this week! The children have been investigating the history of the parish and school as part of their Religious Education program as they learn more about how a parish works. They have been analysing photographs, studying plaques and memorabilia and developing a whole list of questions they want answered. They invited the Maroochydore visitors to the school to share their wisdom. Mrs Baillie shared lots of interesting facts, stories and images to help students with their learning. The children were amazed to learn that the parish we are originally a part of, is actually 100 years old! As well how parishioners travelled on foot, by boat, or horse and cart, to the first-ever parish Mass. They were very interested to learn of the stories of how different parishes changed over time. Fr Peter and Deacon Isaac answered questions about the role of the different people who work in the parish and explained the difference between priests and deacons. There’s so much to learn! Learn more about our parish history by visiting the Our History webpage.
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Siena Catholic College
More than 1000 students, staff, and parents gathered in prayer for the Induction of College Leaders last week. Deacon Isaac joined us for the wonderful community occasion and shared his thoughts on the Beatitudes (we thank him for his insights!) As part of the ceremony, we presented badges to our new student leaders and acknowledged the role of all Year 12 students in leading the College in 2023. Special congratulations to Jasmin and Jacob, our new College Captains.
On Wednesday, we gathered at the Kawana Pool for the annual Swimming Carnival. This was another community building event; as students vied for that first placing in age-group races, enjoyed a variety of novelty events, or spent time picnicking with friends. Congratulations to Ozanam who took out the trophy as champion House.
For our third community event, students and staff volunteered at the Stella Maris Community Meal. Being part of the crew for this event is something that challenges all involved to be of service to others. One of the Year 12 volunteers said: ‘I had an awesome night! It was such a great experience. I’ll definitely be back!”
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