As we near the end of our second week of Term 3, holidays for many of us are a distant memory. The usual routines have recommenced and classrooms are busy and full of life. Our brand new receptions have been embraced by our community and are becoming confident in their school environment. Our Year Six students are now over half way through their final year with us at Saint Pius X, and are beginning to think about the big move to high school next year. The students who are participating in the Sacrament Program are continuing this journey, despite the challenges of COVID-19 Restrictions. We are hopeful that the celebration of these Sacraments will occur later this term.  This is a snapshot of a busy and fulfilling life at Saint Pius X School.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been encouraging our students to maintain high standards of hand hygiene. This is one thing that we can all do to contribute to a safe learning environment. Good hand hygiene is an important factor in reducing possible spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses. New hand washing taps have been installed near the drink troughs, and we continue to encourage regular hand washing before eating and after play. Hand sanitiser is also available in all work spaces and teachers have been diligent in reminding students to use this whenever necessary. Those who use the Kiss and Drop and the Windsor Grove main gate would notice that hand sanitising stations have been in place for some weeks. Please remind your children to use these stations when you drop them off in the morning. Many children are already in this habit, and I suspect this will be the new norm for some time.

In the second reading at Mass on Sunday, we will hear some reassuring words of hope which are very appropriate for our time. In Saint Paul’s letter to the Romans, we hear that “nothing can come between us and the love of Christ, even if we are troubled or worried”. Over the past few days, as we have seen COVID-19 cases rise in Victoria, these words offer hope and reassure us of God’s infinite love for each of us. We continue to keep the world in our prayers and pray for healing and grace as we journey through these uncertain times. May your week be blessed.

Sacrament Program News

Confirmation and First Eucharist – Year 4

With current restrictions, we are able to celebrate these Sacraments in the church on Thursday 3^rd September with limited numbers in attendance. I sent a letter home to all Year 4 families who have a child participating in the Sacrament Program. Please return the Confirmation Card as soon as possible. I thank all families for their patience, support and understanding.

Reconciliation - Year 3

At this stage, First Reconciliation will occur on Wednesday 9^th September at 6pm in the church. The scheduled meeting for next week has been cancelled. A letter will be coming home today to families who have enrolled their child in the Sacrament Program in Year 3. More details about Reconciliation will be distributed in the coming weeks.