Hello Everyone

Advent marks the start of a season of preparation that looks forward to the celebration of Christmas and the second coming of Christ. It is a time of reflection in preparing our hearts for the coming of Jesus. As we enter the first week of Advent, the first purple candle that is lit symbolizes Hope. Advent comes from the Latin word Adventus which literally means ‘coming’; it is also reflected in the Greek word Parousia, which is used to describe the second coming of Jesus. One of the major symbols of the Advent season is the wreath. The encircling wreath is symbolic of God without beginning or end and the green foliage represents our hope in God. 

There are usually five candles in the wreath, a central white candle representing the light of Christ that came into the world and then four outside candles that are usually purple and rose coloured. The first candle is generally symbolic of Hope and Expectation. The third candle – the rose or pink candle – celebrates the Joy that is anticipated in the coming of Christ. The progressive lighting of the candles marks the journey towards the Nativity.

On Monday the Year Six students celebrated a combined Mass with other Year Six students from St Brigid’s and St. Michael’s. The focus of the Mass was celebrating their Confirmation and reflecting on their seven years of primary school. It was a wonderful experience to see our students actively participating throughout the Mass. 

Next Wednesday we will be celebrating our End of Year Mass at St. Francis Xavier Stadium hall on the Berwick campus. Mass will begin at 9.30am and you are most welcome to attend. More information will follow soon. 

Yours in Faith

Nerida Byrden

Catholic Identity and Religious Education Leader