Christmas Art Competition

On Sunday Bella (Yr 5) and Joseph (Year 6) attended the Sydney grand final of the Christmas art competition. Making it to this stage is a HUGE achievement so CONGRATULATIONS to both Bella and Joseph. Additionally, on the day Joseph was awarded a highly commended award for his original and modern take on the visit of the Magi. The two art works remind us of the true meaning of Christmas and to continue to spread the good news to all. 

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal

Thank you to everyone who has donated a grocery item or taken a giving tree gift tag. Your generous contributions spread the joy of Christmas and really help out those in need this Christmas season. Gift tags can still be collected from the school office and donations are asked to please be brought to either the parish or school office by Wednesday.

The school Mini Vinnies team will be working with the Helensburgh Parish Vinnies to pack Christmas hampers on Monday. 

The Season of Advent

On Sunday we entered into the season of Advent, a time of anticipation and reflection. During these four weeks leading up to Christmas, we are reminded to prepare our hearts for the celebration of the birth of Jesus. It is tradition that each Sunday of Advent a new candle on the Advent wreath is lit, reminding us of the virtues of hope, love, joy and peace. I encourage you all this Advent to pause and contemplate the true meaning of the season. 

Thank you to Stage Three for leading us on Monday in our first Advent Liturgy and teaching us about the hope this season brings. This coming Monday, 11 December at 8:50, Stage Two will lead us in our second Advent liturgy. All parents and friends are invited to join us for this special prayer. 

Dear God,

As we step into the season of Advent, we gather with hearts full of hope and excitement. 

May the anticipation of Christmas fill each of us with joy and wonder.

Help us understand the beauty of waiting for the arrival of Jesus.

Guide our hearts to grasp the true meaning of love, joy, peace, and hope. 

May this Advent be a time of growth in faith and understanding for us all.

In the name of Jesus, we pray.

Amen.

An Invitation to Sunday Mass

Holy Cross Parish would like to extend a warm invitation to all our beloved school families to join us for Mass on Sunday mornings at 8:30am. 

Attending Mass as a family is not only a wonderful opportunity to strengthen and nurture our faith but also a chance to deepen the bonds that unite us as a parish, school and a wider community. 

Some things you may not know:

• Sunday Mass goes for one hour, 8:30 - 9:30am. 
• We regularly gather for morning tea and a catch up afterwards. 
• Every second week we have a children's liturgy which enables our kids to build some great friendships and learn about their faith.

We look forward to welcoming you and your family at our next Mass as we come together to celebrate the gift of faith and the joy of community.