Dear Parents and Caregivers

This weekend we celebrate a truly significant event in our liturgical calendar - Pentecost. While Easter and Christmas often capture our immediate attention, Pentecost holds a profound and enduring importance for us as Catholics and, indeed, in our lives today.

Pentecost, often called the "birthday of the Church," commemorates the day the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles, transforming them from a group of fearful disciples into courageous and articulate witnesses to the Risen Christ. It was a moment of extraordinary power and divine infusion that empowered them to spread the Good News to all corners of the earth, transcending language barriers and fear.

So, what does this mean for us, here at STA, in 2025?

Firstly, Pentecost reminds us that we are not alone. Just as the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles, the same Spirit is alive and active within each of us through our Baptism and Confirmation. This is particularly significant for our students who have recently participated in the Sacrament of Confirmation. For them, Pentecost serves as a powerful reminder of the special outpouring of the Holy Spirit they received, strengthening them to live out their faith more fully. This gift of the Holy Spirit provides us all with guidance, strength, comfort, and wisdom in our daily lives. When we face challenges, big or small, we can call upon the Holy Spirit to illuminate our path and empower us to respond with faith and love.

Secondly, Pentecost is a call to action. The Apostles, once empowered, did not keep the gift of the Holy Spirit to themselves. They were compelled to share the message of Christ with others. Similarly, we are called to be witnesses to our faith in our homes, our school, and our wider community. This doesn't necessarily mean grand gestures; it can be as simple as living out our Catholic values with kindness, compassion, and integrity, being a beacon of hope and understanding in a world that often needs it most. Our recently confirmed students, having received a deeper understanding and strengthening of their faith through the sacrament, are now uniquely equipped to embrace this call to discipleship and share the light of Christ with those around them.

Finally, Pentecost reminds us of the incredible diversity within our Church and community. On that first Pentecost, people from many nations heard the message in their own languages. This beautiful image reminds us that our faith is universal and inclusive, embracing people from all backgrounds and walks of life. Here at St Thomas Aquinas, we celebrate the unique gifts and perspectives that each family brings to our school, strengthening the vibrant tapestry of our community.

As we continue through this term, I encourage you all to reflect on the presence of the Holy Spirit in your own lives. How might the gifts of the Spirit empower you to be a more loving parent, a more compassionate friend, a more understanding neighbour, or a more joyful student?

May the Holy Spirit continue to bless our St Thomas Aquinas community, guiding us in truth and empowering us to live lives that reflect the love of Christ.

The Sacrament of Confirmation was celebrated at the end of May. Congratulations to these students and their families. They will lead assembly prayer this Friday 6th June. All welcome! Thank you also to our school choir who lead the liturgy in song. They were absolutely beautiful.

Stages 2 and 3 Mass will be held on Sunday 15th June at 5pm in our church. Our choir will lead us in song and our Stage 2 and 3 students will assist throughout the Mass. We look forward to seeing you there.

Corpus Christi Mass

Corpus Christi Mass will be held on Friday 20th June at 10am. This is an annual event where students and staff from both STA and St Michael’s school at Mittagong, join together to celebrate our parish feast day. We are looking forward to celebrating Mass together. All welcome.

Renee McFayden

Religious Education Co-ordinator

Policies

Please find below a link to our Policies, Procedures & Forms that can also be found on the website:

https://stabdow.catholic.edu.au/parents/policies-procedures-forms/Attendance

Attendance

If your child is away for any reason, can you please enter the absence in Compass.  Otherwise you will receive an automatic notification at 12 pm that day to justify the absence.  Thank you.

Contacting staff

If you need to email a staff member, could you please use the email address:  info@stabdow.catholic.edu.au and your email will be directed to the relevant staff member for you.

• If you would like to make an appointment with a staff member (including the Principal and Assistant Principal) could you please contact the office to organise a convenient time.