Dear Parents/Carers,

"God of love and justice, we pray for those who still suffer sadness because of the government policies of the past, may they be healed by us walking the talk of your Gospel command to love. Help us all to learn the message of justice taught by Pope Francis who has instructed us to go out and interact with all our sisters and brothers."

Tomorrow, 26 May, is Sorry Day and then Reconciliation Week commences on 27 May. These events are very significant for our nation. This year the theme of Reconciliation Week is “Be Brave. Make Change.” This is a challenge to all Australians— individuals, families, communities, organisations and government—to Be Brave and tackle the unfinished business of reconciliation so we can Make Change for the benefit of all Australians.

May 27 marks the anniversary of the 1967 referendum when Australian's voted to remove clauses in the Australian Constitution that discriminated against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. June 3 marks the historic decision in which the High Court of Australia recognised native title.

Our school had representatives at a Sorry Day Service today held by the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry and the Winga Myamly Reconciliation Group.

Industrial Action Friday 27 May

You are reminded of the protected industrial action being taken by the Independent Education Union (IEU) that will impact on our school this Friday 27 May. Please be aware of the following:

* Limited supervision will be provided at school, classes will not run as normal.

* You may wish to keep your child at home.

* Any absence from school on this day will not impact your child's attendance record.

Tonga Appeal

Our school's Mini-Vinnies team is in the midst of an initiative to support the St John's Parish Tonga Appeal. There is information in today's Newsletter providing details of how you can support this appeal. The nation of Tonga is still struggling to recover from the impact of the volcanic explosion earlier this year, and this is one small but practical way in which we can assist in their recovery.

Whole-School Mass

For the first time since the pandemic began, we are pleased to invite parents to join us in a whole-school Mass next Tuesday at 9.15am to celebrate the Feast of the Visitation. The Mass will be held under the COLA. There will be some limited seats for parents so you are welcome to bring your own chair if you like.

Wishing you a happy and safe week,