St Joseph’s runs a comprehensive program of Religious Education for students at the school. While Religious Education lessons form a part of each day, Christianity is a way of loving and therefore should influence every aspect of our school life. We strive to deepen each child’s understanding and knowledge of the Catholic faith, as well as developing a climate that will help children grow in their faith relationship with Christ.
Religious Education becomes meaningful when young people relate their study to real life situations. At St Joseph’s, Religious Education certainly takes on this dimension. It also endeavours to help the students develop Christian attitudes and values which they will try to live out in the family, school and the local community.
Liturgical celebrations are an intrinsic component of the Religious Education program. Opening School Year and Closing School Year Masses are our major liturgical celebrations. We also celebrate Mothers' Day with a High Tea and Liturgy and Fathers' Day with a breakfast, liturgy and activities. Mass is celebrated on special feast days throughout the year. Parents and family friends are always most welcome and actively encouraged to join all class and school religious celebrations. Preparation for the Sacraments of Penance, Eucharist and Confirmation is Parish based and supported by school programs.
To support others in our local community and further afield, the school holds several fundraising events throughout the year. The funds and donations support:
- Caritas –Through Project Compassion which is an annual Lenten fundraiser awareness-raising appeal is an extraordinary, ongoing demonstration of the faith, love and generosity of the Catholic community and caring supporters throughout Australia to help end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity.
- Catholic Mission – Students support the fund-raising focus of Catholic Mission each year. Catholic Mission operates in over 160 countries to support initiatives in 1,100 dioceses, including remote Australia. Grassroots needs are identified by local Catholics, to give people the opportunity for a full, enriched life—physically and spiritually—regardless of race, stigma, religion or gender.
- Our local St Vincent de Paul organisation – The school participates in the Christmas Appeal. This appeal allows students and families to help assist and support people in their local environment who need it the most.
We start each day by Acknowledging Country and praying our School Prayer which was written by the students.
