A Time of Prayer and New Beginnings
Our school community joins Catholics around the world in mourning the passing of Pope Francis. We give thanks for his years of faithful service, humility, and leadership, and we remember him in our prayers with love and gratitude.

At the same time, we welcome and pray for our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV. Chosen by the College of Cardinals, he now leads the Church as the successor of St. Peter. As the students learn about the papacy in class, we are reminded that the Pope is a shepherd for the whole Church, guiding us in faith, hope, and love. May the Holy Spirit bless Pope Leo XIV as he begins this important mission.

Liturgical Season of Easter
As we begin this term in the beautiful season of Easter, our school community rejoices in the hope and renewal that the Resurrection brings. Easter is the longest season in the Church’s liturgical calendar, lasting 50 days and culminating at Pentecost. 

During this time, we reflect on the joy of new life in Christ and the promise of God’s love. During class Religious Education lessons, students are exploring the stories of the risen Jesus and learning how to live as Easter people—spreading kindness, peace, and joy each day.

Thank You for a Beautiful Mother’s Day Liturgy!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our Mother’s Day Liturgy last week. It was a special opportunity to come together in prayer and gratitude for the wonderful mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures in our lives.

We extend a big congratulations to our Year 1 students and their teachers for leading us so reverently in the liturgy. Your thoughtful prayers, readings, and reflections helped make the celebration truly meaningful.

A special thank you also to our Parents and Friends team for organising the lovely afternoon tea before the Liturgy. Your time and effort helped create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all.

Project Compassion
Thank you to everyone for their support of Project Compassion last term. As a community, St. Thomas More raised a total of $570 through our Pancake Breakfast, as well as our class collection boxes. These funds will now be used by Caritas to fund projects across the world. 

ANZAC Day Commemorations
Thank you to those students who represented St. Thomas More at the Campbelltown ANZAC March and Service during the holidays. We always receive many compliments from the public on how respectful our students are during this service. 

Thank you to the Year 6 students and teachers who, during Week 1, helped us to remember the sacrifices many Australians made to protect our way of life. The students led the school in prayer, remembering those who have gone to their eternal rest, as well as those Australians involved in conflicts around the world. 

Parish Sacramental News
The preparation lessons for Confirmation will commence on Sunday 25th May. Lessons will run for 4 weeks and will be held on Sunday afternoons or Wednesday evenings. Baptised children in Year 6 or older are invited to join this preparation program. 

• A Parent Information and Enrolment Evening will be held at the Parish Church (43 Acacia Avenue, Ruse) on Monday 19th May at 7pm.  

We thank all the team who will be working with the children from our school and parish to prepare for this sacrament. We hold the children, and their families, in our prayers during this time. Any enquiries about the Sacramental Programs should be directed to the Parish Office (4628 2967).

Liz Jensen
Religious Education Coordinator