30 August 2021
Principal’s Reflection
We farewelled Brother Rochford on Saturday. His is a presence not easily replaced. Brother left Shalom at the end of 2018 so I am very conscious that half of the College community don’t know much about him or who he was – other than by reputation and legend. For those interested, I have attached the Eulogy I gave at his funeral mass below. He was one of the last Christian Brothers still operating in schools in Australia. He loved Shalom, its students and staff. He attended and recorded every sporting activity, competition, celebration and carnival where Shalom students participated. He greeted them – every day. His was a life well lived and it deserved to be celebrated. Before he left Shalom, he planned his funeral liturgy by choosing the readings and the songs. The readings summed him up. The first reading from St Paul’s letter to the Corinthians is the one about love – “If I can speak the language of angels or if I have faith to move mountains but I do not love, I am like a like clanging cymbal”. And the Gospel he chose, like him, was brief and to the point, “What reward do we deserve? I am but a servant and I have done my duty.” Those of us lucky enough to have known him are blessed but we also have a responsibility now to continue his legacy. Our challenge is not let his spirit wither. Sometimes, at funerals, we use a phrase like, ‘Rest in Peace’. Let’s not let the spirit of Br Rochford rest in peace. Let’s all be committed to letting his spirit run wild in our lives and the lives of all with whom we come in contact – particularly those less fortunate than ourselves.
Dance Night will, I’m sure, be another cultural highlight of the year on Friday and Saturday nights. I know how hard so many students and staff have been working to create another very special event. Best wishes to all who are participating.
Rice House – after more than 15 years in a Pastoral Leadership role at Shalom, Ms Claire Stallard has decided to resign that position at the end of this term. We are very grateful to Claire for the good work she has done in that role and her passion for all things Rice. Mr Scott Whitelaw will take over leadership of Rice House. Scott is coming to us after being a Principal of a school in the Northern Territory. He began his teaching career in Victoria. Scott, will, I’m sure, prove to be a great asset to the College and to Rice House in particular.
Mr Dan McMahon
Principal
McmahonD@shalomcollege.com
Newsletter Articles
- Principal’s Reflection
- Student Welfare and Information
- Positions Vacant - QCAA invigilators for external assessment
- Gym Closed Tuesday Afternoons (16 August-10 September)
- Curriculum
- Administration
- Shalom Showcase
- School Dental Service Program
- Ignite Conference
- Student Drivers
- Absentees
- Pathways
- National Science Week
- Dance Night
- Shalom Vocal Recital
- Music Department News
- Sports Teams Photos
- BDSSS Winter Sport
- Uniform Shop Opening Hours
- Term Dates for 2021
- Parent and Carer Tuckshop Volunteers
- Tuckshop
- Shalom Sunday Markets
- Community Notice Board
Student Welfare and Information
A few thank you messages today
Thank you to the staff and parents who attended Brother Rochford’s funeral on Saturday morning. It was lovely to see so many of the students in their school uniforms.
I would also like to extend heartfelt thanks to the nine student leaders who attended and who carried Brother in to the Church.
Oliver Collins, Bridgette McMahon, our College Captains, James Waters, Taila Saint, Riley Dingle, Lane Cooney, Steven Borg, Georgia Tuzes and Avril Davies (who also sang in the choir).
God bless you all.
Jersey Day
Jersey Day highlights the importance of Organ Donation, please take the time to read about this important cause.
Mrs Elizabeth Austin-Campbell
Deputy Principal
AcampbellE@shalomcollege.com
Positions Vacant - QCAA invigilators for external assessment
QCAA is seeking applications from community members for invigilator positions. Invigilators are required to:
- attend allocated assessment sessions at assessment venues
- observe and report on the administration of assessments and the collection, counting and packing of materials at the end of assessments
- complete online Invigilator reports.
To be eligible to apply community members must:
- be at least 18 years of age and hold a current, paid blue card or an exemption card, or, for teachers with a current Queensland College of Teachers (QCT) registration
- be eligible to work in Australia
- have personal attributes of discretion, tact, attention to detail, an ability to maintain confidentiality
- meet the requirements for identification and access to technology
Before applying please read the Position description: Invigilators and Invigilator frequently asked questions available via the link below.
https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/assessment/external-assessment/qcaa-invigilators
Please note anyone who worked as an invigilator in 2020 will need to reapply for 2021. Applications for QCAA invigilator positions close on 6 September.
Gym Closed Tuesday Afternoons (16 August-10 September)
Please be aware the Gym will be closed on Tuesday afternoons between Weeks 6 and 9 this term. No other days will be affected and will resume to usual hours in Week 10.
Mrs Kim O’Shea-Hard
Assistant Principal – Staff
Kim_Hard@shalomcollege.com
Curriculum
Year 8 – 10, 2022 Subject Selection
Year 10 selections are being finalised. If your student has not completed their SET Plan or selected their subjects for Year 11, they need to see Mrs Ivers (Senior School Coordinator) as soon as possible.
Year 8 & Year 9 subject close on Tuesday 31 August. All subject selections forms are to be signed and handed into Student Reception.
The Year 9 & 10 Subject Selection Booklet 2022 is available on the website:
http://www.shalomcollege.com/curriculum/forms-publications/
Year 12 Examination Arrangements (Mock Exam & External Assessment Blocks)
External Assessments – variation to venue
Applications for ‘variations to venue’ are now required by QCAA. This is necessary for situations where students may be unable to sit their exams due here due to them representing their state or Australia in an official capacity in sporting or academic events. Arrangements are made in advance for them to sit the assessments at an alternate venue. If your Year 12 student cannot be in attendance to complete their external assessments at Shalom please contact Mrs Gail Norris this week.
External Assessment Publications
Updated copies of all QCAA External Assessment publications have been placed on the college’s website: https://www.shalomcollege.com/curriculum/forms-publications/ under the heading “Year 12 External Assessments”. These have also been placed on SIA in the Assessment and Reporting page.
Mrs Gail Norris
Assistant Principal – Curriculum
Gail_Norris@shalomcollege.com
Administration
Term 3, Week 10 13 Sept – 17 Sept |
Mock Exam Block, Winter’s Final Day (attendance for exams only or requested catch up sessions) |
Term 4, Week 1 5 October – 8 October |
Mock Exam Block (attendance for exams only or requested catch up sessions) |
Term 4, Week 2 |
Normal Classes – All Year 12 students to attend |
Term 4, Week 3 |
Normal Classes – All Year 12 students to attend |
Term 4, Week 4-7 |
External Assessment Block: 22 October – 16 November Attendance required for all Year 12 students after completion of External Examinations. |
Year 12 Mock External Exam Block – Term 3 Week 10 & Term 4 Week 1
In preparation for External Exams starting in Term 4 Week 4, Year 12 students will participate in a Mock External Exam Block in Term 3 Week 10 and Term 4 Week 1. The Exam Timetable for this exam block is attached. Students need only attend school for the exams that they are sitting in this period.
During the exam block, students not involved in exams are expected to be involved in home study. Students who are behind in their schoolwork may also be required to attend school to complete outstanding work. If this is required, these arrangements will be communicated by individual class teachers.
We wish our students all the best with their studies.
Year 11 Exam Block – 9 September – 13 September
Year 11 students will participate in an exam block from the 9 - 13 September. The Exam Timetable for this exam block is attached. Students need only attend school for the exams that they are sitting in this period.
During the exam block, students not involved in exams are expected to be involved in home study. Students who are behind in their schoolwork may also be required to attend school to complete outstanding work. If this is required, these arrangements will be communicated by individual class teachers.
We wish our students all the best with their studies.
Year 7-8 Core Studies Learner Conferences (PT – Interviews) – Friday 3 September
Year 7 and 8 Core Studies Learner Conferences (Parent/Teacher Interviews) will be available from 8.30am – 3.00pm on the Student Free Day of Friday 3 September in the Waterford Centre. The rooms that the interviews will take place is shown in the table below. As this is a student-free day, your child is encouraged to attend the interview also. The aim of these conferences is to provide an opportunity for parents to meet with teachers to discuss the progress and learning needs of their children.
There will also be an extra half-day from 8.30am – 11.30am on Tuesday 7 September in the Loyola Centre for parents to book appointments with teachers who have three Core Studies classes. The teachers who these extra appointments are available for are: Sarah Murray, Gillian Deacon, Craig Sologinkin, Brett Hoskins, Emily Stevenson, Kirsty McCulloch, Michael Harris, Patrick Matters, Justine Blinco and Karen Lyons.
Conferences may be arranged online via Parent Lounge. The online Parent Teacher Interview booking facility opened at 8:00am on today and will close at 3:00pm on Tuesday 31 August to allow teachers to prepare for interviews.
Whilst the scheduled interview day is seen as an important communication between home and school, parents are welcome to arrange an interview with specific teachers at any time the need arises throughout the year. Please also remember that detailed information about your child’s progress is available on Parent Lounge under the ‘Curricular Activities Due’ tab. Here you can see the results and teacher feedback on every individual assessment item. This would be advantageous to review before attending the CS Learner Conferences.
Mr Brendan Maher
Assistant Principal – Administration
Brendan_Maher@shalomcollege.com
Shalom Showcase
Mrs Megan Munckton
Middle School Coordinator
Megan_Munckton@shalomcollege.com
School Dental Service Program
Message from the school dental service
The Mobile Dental Clinic will be starting at Shalom College in a few weeks’ time. The School Dental Service will be offering a free dental examination and dental treatment to all students that return their Offer of Treatment form either by paper copy or the on-line form. All forms must be completed in ink. Once the form is returned, our friendly administrative officer will send the parent/legal guardian a contact letter or a contact SMS, so they can ring us to arrange an appointment. Please note: A PARENT/LEGAL GUARDIAN MUST ATTEND the first appointment as the way we deliver our service has changed.
For the first appointment the parent/guardian must attend – after that a responsible adult can attend. If after the discussion with the operator at the first appointment, you are happy for your child to attend from class themselves, this can occur. Please note there may be paperwork you will need to sign so this will be sent home for you. We understand there will be exceptions so please discuss this with us. Please work with us so we can deliver the best care to your child/children.
Message from Shalom College
The dental van is expected to arrive at Shalom on 16 September and will be parked near McAuley block. Bookings are now open for all Year 11 and 12 students (only). To make an appointment use the link below or return the registration form given to you at PC to Student Reception by Friday 10 September.
https://www.health.qld.gov.au/widebay/form/school-dental-appointment
Booking forms for Year 7-10 students will be available very soon – an update will be posted in the College Newsletter.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Bundaberg School Dental Service is a program run by Wide Bay Hospital and Health Services. If you are attending an appointment at the dental van you must have a note in your diary and must sign out/in at Student Reception as you would for any other appointment.
Any queries regarding the program please contact the School Dental Service on 07 4303 8059.
Ignite Conference
Australia’s most dynamic annual Catholic youth conference is back in 2021 in Brisbane! Our diocesan group is organising accommodation and transport from Mackay, Rockhampton, Gladstone and Gin Gin, and is open to all young adults and high school students. Bundaberg participants will be picked up in Gin Gin.
When: 22 to 25 September
Where: Mueller College, Redcliffe Cost: $300 (including accommodation, transport and meals)
For more info or to register with our diocesan group please contact Elizabeth Kelly at 0456 635 542 or Michael Otto at 0433897973 or youth@rok.catholic.net.au.
Ms Cheryl Petersen
Campus Minister
petersenc@shalomcollege.com
Student Drivers
Parents and Carers of Year 11 & 12 Students
If your child has obtained their Provisional Licence and wishes to drive to and from school you are required to fill out a Permission to Drive Form and return it to Student Reception for approval by Mrs Elizabeth Austin-Campbell. Once approved the details will be placed on our School Register.
Thanks to those Parents who have already completed this form for their child.
Mrs Amanda O’Mara
Executive Assistant to the Principal/ Enrolment Officer
amanda_omara@shalomcollege.com
Absentees
FOR ALL ABSENTEES
Preferred option is Email absentees@shalomcollege.com or Phone Absentee line 41558181
ALL student absentees should be notified to the office by 9am each day. If no notification has been received, an absentee text message will be sent out to parents to advise of the student’s absence.
Pathways
National Skills Week
Last week was National Skills Week and Shalom celebrated by raising the profile and status of practical and vocational learning and dispelling outdated myths and showcasing the attractive career opportunities available to all Australians. ‘Learning by doing’ is as important as ‘academic learning’ and there are many pathways to success.
Vocational Education and Training has been the foundation of Australia’s strong and vibrant economy and has produced industry leaders, provided great diversity and new and exciting career paths. It supports our resources and primary industries, builds our cities and supports our tourism, our heritage and much, much more.
Shalom celebrated this event by taking the opportunity recognise vital careers skills through the morning prayer and running daily competitions to raise awareness.
One of our 30 National Skills Week Prize Winners, Thomas Brandon
Find Your Perfect Work Experience Match
Job Match is the online meeting place for Community Services Industry employers and job seekers, including students seeking work experience opportunities.
How does it work?
Students visit the Job Match platform and create a profile, indicating that you are looking for work experience placements.
Employers with work experience placements available will visit the Job Match platform and search for profiles where the candidate has indicated they’re looking for work experience.
Employers will contact the students directly to make the match.
The quick video below shows you how students can create a profile (3mins).
Students and job seekers can visit www.csiajobmatch.com.au to create a profile.
CQU – The Santos Science Experiment
CQU is again hosting The Santos Science Experience at the Bundaberg campus during the second week of the September school holidays (28-30 September).
This program provides a great opportunity for students to engage in a wide range of fascinating STEM activities with STEM professionals. The team has partnered with Santos to be able to facilitate 3 days of fun with the interest of inspiring more students to look at going down a science pathway.
This event is open to students in Years 9 and 10 that have a passion for environmental science.
The three-day event will include trips to a farm, Bundaberg Brewing and the Bundaberg Airport.
Students will be working across many different environments such as in laboratories, virtual reality tech spaces as well as different teaching spaces on our campus.
There are only 30 places available so interested students are encouraged to register as soon as possible to reserve their spot.
For more information and registration go to the link below.
https://bit.ly/2XLGMpj
Tax File Numbers (TFN)
Any students commencing work (casual, part-time or full-time) will require a tax file number. Also, current Year 12 students are reminded that they will be requested to provide their Tax File Number (TFN) on enrolment to TAFE or university next year, so it is worthwhile getting an application submitted early! Students must now apply for a TFN online and have their identity verified through an interview at a participating Australia Post office. To apply and also to find out about participating Post Offices, visit the link below.
https://auspost.com.au/id-and-document-services/apply-for-a-tax-file-number
Upcoming Events
Thursday 2 September 4pm – 6pm |
CQU Gladstone Open House https://www.cqu.edu.au/events/event-items/open-day/gladstone-open-house |
The Pathways Team
Mrs Liza O’Donnell, Mrs Kathy Laing & Mrs Julia Fox
Liza_ODonnell@shalomcollege.com
LaingK@shalomcollege.com
Julia_Fox@shalomcollege.com
National Science Week
Last week saw Shalom College celebrate National Science Week with the theme “Food – different by design”. Tuesday saw the College celebrate by exploding watermelons, making sherbet and decorating biscuits. The students also had the opportunity to participate in the brain break challenge by answering quiz questions for prizes. The quizzes were won by two Year 9 students, Lucy Hamilton and Hannah Nash.
Our wonderful Year 11 UQ Science Ambassadors, with a helping hand from some Year 9 Science extension students, spent Wednesday afternoon introducing primary school students from St Mary’s and St Patrick’s to a range of fun and exciting mini experiments. All students involved had a wonderful time. The Year 11 and 9 students are to be commended for how well they interacted with the visiting students.
Two of our UQ Ambassadors – |
Mr Smith running the sherbet making |
The results from biscuit decorating |
Claire Fava, year 11, leading an |
Bailey Reid, year 9, showing students |
Jack Frohloff and Katie Maher, |
Two of our UQ Ambassadors – Charlie Aslett and Renee Tu running the Watermelon Experiment |
Mr Smith running the sherbet making event |
The results from biscuit decorating |
Claire Fava, year 11, leading an investigation into the pH of common household items |
Bailey Reid, year 9, showing students how to write secret messages with ‘invisible ink’ |
Jack Frohloff and Katie Maher, year 11, demonstrating how to make the perfect sherbet |
Ms Larissa Scoles
Learning Area Coordinator Senior Science
Larissa_Scoles@shalomcollege.com
Dance Night
Dance Night will be held this Friday 3 and Saturday 4 September in the Performing Arts Precinct.
There is still a limited number of tickets available for both nights so come along and support the College’s talented dance cohort.
$12 adults, $10 student/concession
Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event at:
https://www.trybooking.com/BTHKI
Students involved in the performances will be required to attend a dress rehearsal on Wednesday 1 September from 11:25am until 6:30pm.
For more information, please contact Ms Cassie Hoiberg
Cassandra_Hoiberg@shalomcollege.com
Ms Cassie Hoiberg
Performing Arts Learning Area Coordinator
Cassandra_Hoiberg@shalomcollege.com
Shalom Vocal Recital
On Sunday 22 August, 11 vocal students performed in the Shalom Vocal Recital. Held in the theatre of the Performing Arts Precinct, students sung solos, duets and trios showcasing the repertoire they have been working on in their vocal lessons with Mrs Sweetapple. Congratulations to the following students for a wonderful performance - Nicholas McMahon, Chelsea Costar, Nate Sologinkin, Sarah Farmer, Evelyn James, Ava Marschke, Christina McMahon, Ambah Keleher, Iris De Jager, Chelsea Rock and Savannah Aplin.
Vocal Concert Students
Mrs Natalie Sweetapple
Instrumental Music Teacher – Vocal & Choral
Natalie_Sweetapple@shalomcollege.com
Music Department News
Due to the cancellation of the Maryborough Eisteddfod, Week 7 saw an additional round of specialized recordings to ensure that our junior cohort of students had another opportunity to perform. Congratulations to the College Choir, Senior Vocal Group, the Treble Makers, Junior Concert Band, Rochford Strings and the Junior Jazz Band for their dedication and commitment to the program. We would like to take the time to thank Murray Page & Terry Plunkett in the A.V. Department for facilitating these recordings and providing an extended platform for our school community. They often go unrecognized as being an integral part of the Music Program. Murray and Terry always make our jobs easier and perform their duties with courtesy, the utmost respect and a smile on their face. Thank you gentlemen.
We would like to congratulate Mrs Natalie Sweetapple and her vocal students for their tasteful afternoon concert that took place Sunday 22 August. We would also extend our congratulations to Mrs Rebecca Helbig & Mrs Christie McLucas and respective piano students for sharing their talents yesterday Sunday 29 August. Finally, we look forward to the College’s inaugural guitar concert under the inspirational direction of Mr Cameron MacDonnell on Sunday 12 September at 2:00pm. Can’t wait to here them “shred”.
As we edge near the end of Term 3 it seems appropriate to reflect and acknowledge the wonderfully diverse Music Department we all share and the magnificent opportunities that are provided for the students in our community. Thank you all for your continued support.
Mr James Belluz
Instrumental Music Teacher
Belluzj@shalomcollege.com
Sports Teams Photos
Please see link to the Team Photo Schedule for the remaining of Term 3.
All photos are taken at Mackillop 2 at either Lunchtime or Afternoon Tea unless otherwise specified.
Students are to wear formal school uniform.
BDSSS Winter Sport
Netball
Year 7 Blue Netball Team
Mrs Justine Blinco
Team Coach
Justine_Blinco@shalomcollege.com
Table Tennis Results
The Shalom Table Tennis team was unfortunately a little short with only two players in last week’s round, which meant that a number of matches had to be forfeited. Michael Richardson and Zacharry Morrish played well, but in the end were soundly beaten by a strong St Luke’s team. While many games were close, we were only able to win one of the six ‘genuine’ (Shalom V St Luke’s) matches that were played.
Mr Troy Braund
Team Manager
Troy_Braund@shalomcollege.com
Uniform Shop Opening Hours
Uniform appointment dates for 2022 year 7 & year 10 girls
15 minute appointments
All appointments need to be booked online using the link below.
https://shalomcollegeuniformfittings.youcanbook.me/
Commencing Term 4
Tuesday - 9:00am to 11:00am
3:45pm to 5:15pm
Appointment Only
Wednesdays - 9:00am to 11:00am
Appointment Only
Thursdays - 9:00am to 10:15am
11:00am to 1:00pm
3:45pm to 5:15pm
Appointment Only
Monday 29/11/2021 – 8:00am to 11:45am
1:00pm to 4:45pm
Appointment Only
Wednesday - 08/12/2021- 8:00am to 11:45am
Appointment Only
Closed Wednesday 08/12/2021 from 12:00pm for Stocktake.
Holidays Thursday 9/12/2021 – 09/01/2022
Re – open Monday 10/01/2022
Appointment Only
Monday 10/01/2022 – Friday 14/01/2022
8:00am – 11:45am
1:00pm – 4:45pm
Monday 17/01/2022 onwards no appointments necessary.
Mrs Leanne Barker
Uniform Shop Co-ordinator
barkerl@shalomcollege.com
Phone : 41 558 121
Term Dates for 2021
Term 1: Wednesday 27th January - Thursday 1st April (10 weeks)
Term 2: Monday 19th April - Friday 25th June (10 weeks)
Term 3: Monday 12th July - Friday 17th September (10 weeks)
Term 4: Tuesday 5th October - Friday 3th December (9 weeks)
Parent and Carer Tuckshop Volunteers
At the start of each school year we ask parents to indicate their availability for volunteering in the College tuckshop.
Life is busy and forever changing, so for this reason we have set up a booking system that will not only accommodate our very much appreciated regular volunteers, but also families who may not be able to commit on a regular basis and who may have a day here or there throughout the year to come along and lend a hand and support our students. The beauty of this system is that you can select your day and manage your booking, so if something comes up, you can quickly and easily go online to reschedule or cancel. Your booking will generate a confirmation email with links to manage your booking, it can be synched with your calendar and an SMS is sent the day before as a reminder. Of course, we are also here to help - simply contact Shalom College on 41 55 8111.
For those of you who are regular volunteers your shifts have already been added to the schedule for this year and you should have received an e-mail for each booked shift.
Shifts last from 2 to 3 hours (school drop off to around 11.30 am).
No experience required!
https://shalomtuckshoproster.youcanbook.me/
Tuckshop
Breakfast
Breakfast is now available in the tuckshop for purchase each morning 8:00am – 8:30am.
Please note new photos
Items include
Bacon & Egg Muffins - $3.50
Ham & Cheese Croissant - $3.50
Porridge & Cereal - $3 (self-service option with milk and bowl & cutlery are supplied)
Fresh Fruit - $1 (seasonal fruits such as; Bananas, Apples, Mandarins etc.)
Plus, the already available items of Yoghurt Pots, Up n Go drinks & Flavoured Milk
Students who train before school need to consider utilising the breakfast menu to replenish energy lost during their training sessions, however must be dressed appropriately before entering the tuckshop and must not be late for class.
Shalom Sunday Markets
Shalom Markets will continue to operate (with restrictions) until further notice!
- Fresh food stalls fruit, vegetable & local food products
- BBQ and tuckshop are operating, social distancing practices are in place
- Social distancing to include gaps between stalls (all outdoors)
SHALOM MARKETS 6AM TO 12PM EVERY SUNDAY!
Markets Tuckshop Roster
New volunteers are DESPERATELY required for the Markets Tuckshop or BBQ, if you have any queries please contact Leanne via email – barkerl@shalomcollege.com
Markets BBQ Roster
Sunday 5 September |
Shalom Rugby League Neil Feather |
Sunday 12 September |
Moore Park Beach State School P & C Diane Patterson |
Sunday 19 September |
Rotary Club of Bundaberg Sunrise Tony Castro |
Sunday 26 September |
Shalom Rowing Nicole Heinz |
Sunday 3 October |
East Bundaberg Rotary David Baldry |
Sunday 10 October |
Shalom Rugby League Neil Feather |
Community Notice Board
Shalom College Families Business and Trade Directory
http://www.shalomcollege.com/our-community/families-business-trade-directory/
Clubbercise
Drivers School
Rotary Club Book Sale
Qld Government Autism Hub
The Autism Hub are offering a range of professional development sessions online.
https://autismhub.education.qld.gov.au/professional-learning/workshops-calendar
Love Bites
Youth Support
Headspace
Link to Survey below
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/famfriend2
Find Out More below
https://headspace.org.au/headspace-centres/bundaberg/
Youth Champions Team
The Catholic Parish of Bundaberg
Office Hours: 9:00 - 1:00 Monday to Friday
Parish Office: Rossolini Place Level 1, 66 Woongarra St
Ph: 07 4151 6666 PO Box 79 Bundaberg QLD 4670
Email: sbundaberg@rok.catholic.net.au
AFTER HOURS: Anointing of the sick for medical emergencies
phone 4151 6666 and follow the prompt
UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF MARY MOTHER OF CHURCH
Current Parish Bulletin
https://www.bundabergcatholic.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/22ndSundayOrdinarytime.pdf
Parish News
https://www.bundabergcatholic.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/What-is-Alpha-for-Bulletin-insert-14-15-Aug-2021.pdf
GOOD NEWS
https://www.bundabergcatholic.net.au/good-news/
CURRENT ROSTER (Term 3 2021)
https://www.bundabergcatholic.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Gate-Keepers-Roster-Saturday-Sunday.pdf
Focus by: Fr Peter Tonti
Parish Priest
Building God’s Boat
Looking at our world in its present state we would probably make a dire assessment. The cruelty, hatred, violence, jealousy, betrayal and negativity appear to be everywhere. The devastation of the COVID-19 virus, in all its forms, continues to escalate. What do we do when the darkness threatens? When the primordial chaos comes in the form of the stormy waters of sickness and failure and disease, sin and death. The ancient peoples used the term for this darkness as Tohu wa bahu (Genesis 1). What do you do when you feel you are being overwhelmed by these forces? This is clearly the breaking apart of what God intends. So look what God does. God sends rescue operations. He commissions those who are prepared to walk in step with him to build a Boat. The builders must be prepared to walk and talk with him so all are united in the one Spirit . So amidst the Tohu wa bahu, God commissions us to build the Boat. A Boat that is shipshape and can withstand the fearful storms. To make sure He sends his own Son to be in the Boat so we can know the Way. So here we are in the nave of this church (navus: ship) travelling with the Lord as we continue to build and strengthen God’s Boat. It is the responsibility of every one of us to build and strengthen God’s Boat by offering our gifts and talents so they can be blessed and shared, and make God’s Boat even more shipshape. But what is the point of having a shipshape boat if it is left in the harbour just to be admired like a museum? We are called to journey into the deep and invite those who are floundering amidst the storms into the safety of our Boat. It may be strange to build and journey in such a Boat in our secular world, but how else can we navigate the storms and reach out to those who are struggling? A Spirit-filled Boat of Prayer, Word and Sacraments. People of Faith and Hope and Love. A Boat that reaches out to those in need, inviting and welcoming all people. What will ensure the spiritual growth of our world if we do not continue to build and journey in God’s Boat? The greatest sailor in God’s Boat is Jesus. The one who journeys with us. Let us all find that place in our heart where Jesus is sleeping and awaken him. And then, the ever-building Church, with Christ as its Head and filled with the Holy Spirit, becomes the Light for our World. The true means of hope and God’s peace. May the Spirit of God be with you always. Amen.
"The annual parish "Good News" magazine will now become a bi-monthly bulletin of photos and brief news stories. If your parish group would like to be showcased in the bulletin, please send in your photos with a short note, and we will attempt to include it in the coming edition. We welcome your feedback as we trial this new format."
"Enjoy reading this year's edition of the 'Good News Magazine: 2020 New Vision', a look at the year that was and how we adapted to a new way of doing thins."
Please click on the link to access the digital copy of the magazine.
https://www.bundabergcatholic.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Catholic-Parish-Magazine-2020-Digital.pdf
MINISTRY INSERVICE DATES
It has been a number of years since last we gathered for training.
Please mark your diaries and attend a one-hour session for continuing ministers.
All sessions 9.30 am or 5.30 pm, Parish Office.
-Mass Assistants & Sacristans: Wednesday, 1st September
-Minister of the Word: Thursday, 2nd September 2021
Please note change of date.
Ring the Parish Office or scan this QR Code to register.
https://catholicleader.com.au/digital-newspaper-covid19
Catholic Youth Groups
Breast Screen Queensland
Triple P
The State Government is funding free access to Triple P, which is the world’s most evidence-based parenting program and has helped more than four million children and their parents around the world develop closer, more positive relationships.
Please click on this link, which will take you to the website where you can access information relevant to your situation.
http://www.triplep-parenting.net.au/qld-uken/triple-p/
This link will remain in our Newsletter with Triple P sending us regular updates and helpful tips.