Dear Parents and Carers

With the end of the term only a few days away, I am sure that many of our students are looking forward to a break. While it has been terrific to return to some form of normality after last year, it has been a very busy term. 

For some time we have been preparing to move forward with the school masterplan to improve school facilities. Unfortunately, we have experienced some delays due to circumstances we are unable to control, however, we are now at a point where some elements are able to begin.  Construction of a new junior toilet block and junior eating area will commence these holidays, and while there will be some disruption to our normal school routine during the building stage, the facilities will benefit our students immensely. Keep your eye out for changes to our entry and exit points as these will change due to builder access points for the duration of the project.

Over the course of the term we have been working to bring to fruition some changes to routines and practices at the school.  For most of 2020 we were unable to engage in whole school assemblies, masses and community gatherings due to restrictions. Fortunately, we are once again able to gather as a school community.  

Last year, despite the challenges posed, we were provided with some opportunities to reflect and adapt.  In looking back at these challenges we have begun trialling a different approach to assemblies.  School assemblies will take place in weeks 3, 6 and 9 of each term and the focus for these will be on significant achievements for students. Awards will recognise students for achievements across our 3 Mercy values of Love, Community and Excellence.  Our school leaders will take on a more significant role in delivering these assemblies and in recognising the achievements of students.  The format will be shorter and more focussed on building a supportive and inclusive school environment. 

Parents and carers are warmly invited to be a part of these assemblies again. Again this is a trial and our format is open to change and feedback from students and families.  We are hoping that these will prove to be more time effective, positive and focussed.  I hope you will join us over the coming term.  

This week (Wednesday)  saw our first new format assembly and the presentation of our first Mercy Value Awards.  It was wonderful to have our recipients celebrate their awards with their families.  Congratulations to our award winners.

This Easter Season

This Sunday, called Palm Sunday or Passion Sunday, is the first day of Holy Week. There are two Gospel readings proclaimed at Sunday's Mass. The first Gospel tells of Jesus' triumphant entrance into Jerusalem. Riding on a borrowed colt, Jesus was hailed by the crowds as they blessed God and shouted "Hosanna". The second Gospel goes onto to tell the story leading to Jesus' Crucifixion.

Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday are called the Triduum- three days of prayer and the highlight of the Church Year. 

On Monday, we will begin the Easter story with school coming together for our Palm Sunday liturgy. On Wednesday and Thursday, we will hear about the events leading to Jesus' resurrection on Easter Sunday. 

Holy Week Liturgies

Monday- Palm Sunday

Wednesday- The Last Supper and Death of Jesus

Thursday- The Resurrection

Michael Putney Hall at 8:40am 

All welcome

Project Compassion

For over half a century, generations of Australian families have participated in Project Compassion. The initative has raised over $500 million since it began in 1965- making it one of the nation's longest running charity campaigns. For many, Project Compassion's iconic collection boxes are a nostaglic part of their lives- a reminder around home, school, church and the community that it is time to support Caritas Australia's annual appeal. 

Thank you to our St Joseph's community for your continued support in assisting us raise much needed funds for Project Compassion in 2021. 

Project Compassion Appeal

This week marks our final week for the Caritas Australia annual appeal. There are three fundraising events for the week. All monies raised will go to Project Compassion

Monday- Icy Cup stall. Last one for Term One

Tuesday- One of our talented Year 3 students, Stella will be selling her hair accessories before school on Tuesday. Products are $3.50 or any 3 for $10.

Thank-you Stella's Little Store for your generous donation. 

Wednesday- Our talented Year 6 singing buskers together with Mr and Mrs Bennett will entertain us from 8am. 

Sacramental Journey

On Sunday, St Joseph's Parish welcomed Bishop Tim to celebrate Sacramental Mass of Confirmation and First Eucharist. 

Congratulations to all the children who completed their journey of initation. 

Hope all have a wonderful week,

Trina

Children will run in their age groups (8yrs-12yrs). Distances will vary according to age groups, with 8 years running approximately 1km, 9-10 years running 2km and 11-12 years running 2.5km. Our classes have begun the annual ‘Townsville to Cairns Challenge’ to develop some fitness and stamina.

Prep - Year 2 students will have a Fun Run using our 'Townsville to Cairns Challenge’ course on our oval. Further detailed information will follow in Week 1 of Term 2.

NQ Netball Cup

We wish our St. Joey's Netball team all the very best of luck at the 2021 Northern Region School Netball Cup. This is a regional  knock-out competition, where a number of games are played throughout the day. The carnival will be held at The Murray Sporting Complex from 9.00am - 2.40pm (presentation) next Thursday 1 April (Week 10). We are excited to be part of such a wonderful day. We thank Miss Kathy and Mrs. de Jongh for their work with the team. Go Joey's!

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