In last Sunday’s Gospel we heard of three parables, all stressing the dynamic of lost and found. The point being made in each case is the generous willingness God demonstrates in accepting back the repentant sinner. In the first parable the repentant sinner was symbolised in the lost sheep. The second parable focused on the lost coin. The third parable presented a younger son and an elder son both of whom were lost. In each case, someone assertively went after what was lost until found.

Looking at the parables from a different angle could see the emphasis shift a bit. Jesus himself does not focus on what is lost so much as the extravagant behaviour of the one doing the finding. From the perspective of Jesus the finder does not require repentance for full and exuberant acceptance. He seems to prefer stressing a radical desire and openness on the part of God to joyfully accept the sinner, no matter what the sin has been. In these parables Jesus presented us with a picture of God whose generosity extends beyond any human generosity we imagine. The word “angels” here refers not only to the spiritual angels, but also, in a certain way, to all those around us who seek to facilitate our conversion: these angels are our parents, our brothers and sisters, our friends, our close relatives, everyone we meet, here and there, throughout our life… All of them rejoice in seeing us turn ourselves around when we go astray.

Uniform

The policy with uniform changeover allows for parents to use their discretion with regards to weather the last two and first two weeks of the term. The weather at present is making it easier for students to stay in their winter uniforms without overheating. Regardless of what uniform is worn can you please ensure that it is either full winter or full summer, not a combination of both.

Soccer Gala Day

Congratulations to all those who participated in the Soccer Gala Day last Thursday. Thank you to the many parents and staff involved in the preparation for the day and to the students for their participation and good spirits.

As this is the last newsletter for the term I would like to thank everyone for your warm welcome and support I have received this term, it is truly a pleasure working with the St. Thomas Aquinas community. I wish everyone a very restful break, enjoy the couple of weeks away from routine.

Be Still and Know I am God,

Be still and know that I am,

Be still and know,

Be still,

Be.

Study each line carefully, it is surprising how much meaning each one contains.