Catholic Education Week 

Last week, we celebrated Catholic Education Week, a time to recognise the unique identity of our Catholic schools and the essential roles they play in the lives of our students, families, and the wider community. This year, our diocesan theme, "Seeds of Hope," strongly resonates with our OLOR staff and students. It reminds us of our duty to plant seeds of hope in the world. 

The theme helps our students understand their educational experience within a Catholic context. Their time at OLOR is not just about academic learning; it is also a journey of spiritual growth, moral development, and embracing values based on the Gospel.  

Last week, we highlighted how our students can actively participate in their faith, build their relationship with Jesus, and develop a sense of belonging within our school and parish community through various special events. We celebrated our wonderful mothers and all those in our lives who bring us hope every day. We walked in solidarity with millions of children worldwide who trek long distances to access water, reflecting on their challenges. We also celebrated our faith alongside our sister Riverland Catholic schools. In addition, we switched off our devices to promote care for creation and participated in a walk to school event, emphasising the importance of safety and fitness in our community. To end Catholic Education week our Foundation and Year 4/5 students hosted the weekend parish mass, with our students and teachers taking an active roll in reading prayers and scripture and processing gifts to the altar. This is a significant week for OLOR that offers something for everyone in our community. 

The theme of "Seeds of Hope" reminds us that we are part of something larger—a community united by faith and a shared hope for a brighter future. Catholic Education Week is more than just a week filled with activities; it encourages us to strive to become the best versions of ourselves. Catholic Education Week invites everyone in the OLOR community to view themselves as active participants in a journey of faith, guided by hope to create a positive impact in our world—not only during that special week but throughout the entire year. 

First Communion

We are excited to share a special moment in our school and parish community, Rayner, Laura and Harry will celebrate their  First Holy Communion later this Term. This important celebration not only deepens their faith but also allows them to fully participate in the Eucharist, which is central to our Catholic life. Receiving the Body and Blood of Christ for the first time brings them closer to Jesus and the Church, marking a significant step in their spiritual journey with the support of their families and school. 

Please see the dates for their preparation and celebration next to the Mass times. Join us in praying for our First Holy Communion students, and may this journey be a cherished memory and a source of hope and joy in their lives.  

OLOR Mass Times - St. Mary's Church, Berri

Saturday May 24th – 6:30 pm 

Sunday June 1st – 9:00 am **First Eucharist - Welcome/Commitment Weekend - Family Workshop before Mass at 8:00 AM 

Saturday June 7th – 6:30 pm 

Sunday June 15th – 9:00 am  **First Eucharist - Rite of Election Weekend 

Saturday June 21st – 6:30 pm  **First Eucharist – Celebration of the Sacrament 

 Sunday June 29th – 9:00  am **First Eucharist – Commissioning Mass 

The current edition of the Catholic newspaper put out by the Archdiocese called,' The Southern Cross,' is available at Southern Cross Latest Issue 

Rosemary Perre

APRIM