Dear Parents and Carers,

Lent begins next week on Ash Wednesday which marks the start of a special season of reflection and preparation for Easter in our church. Lent is a time to grow closer to God through prayer, fasting, and acts of kindness. On Ash Wednesday, we will gather for a liturgy at 12 noon, where ashes will be placed on our foreheads, symbolising repentance and forgiveness. The forty days of Lent remind us of the forty days that Jesus spent in the desert, taking time to reflect and to pray. For us, Lent is a time of renewal, when we make a conscious effort to pray, give to the poor and give up something we like (fasting). Each class will have a Project Compassion Box, which allows our students to donate to those who are in need. Lent is the time we prepare our hearts for the joy of Easter.

This week the AGM for our P & F was held. During the meeting, our President Melissa Gibson stepped down after leading our parent community over the last year. We thank Melissa for her passion and hard work, and the many achievements she has contributed to our community. I congratulate our incoming P & F executive:

President:            Judith Erwin

Vice President:     Sophie Costello 

Treasurer:            Elle Donnellan 

Secretary:            Jessica Clare 

Canteen Manager: Lisa Lirantzis 

There are many ways to support these amazing people on our P & F executive. Our new committee will be looking for a contact person for each year group to make contact with parents for events, or come and lend a hand in the canteen, many hands make light work. Your involvement is a gift to your child. 

We are looking forward to the Milton Show next weekend, please pop into the pavilion to see St Mary’s Banners and produce entries. 

I look forward to seeing you in our school next week,

Yours in partnership

Laurinda Nelson