It was announced by Pope Francis in 2020 that the theme for the XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops in October 2023 would be “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation and Mission.”
Blog
National Child Protection Week
The 4-10th of September is National Child Protection Week. As stated on the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN) website, “In 2022, National Child Protection Week will continue to embrace the overarching message that every child, in every community, needs a fair go. ” This week brings awareness and action to what works to keep children safe and supported.
International Day of Charity
On the 5th of September, we celebrate International Day of Charity, a day chosen in order to commemorate the life of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, the renowned nun and missionary. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 for “work undertaken in the struggle to overcome poverty and distress, which also constitute a threat to peace.”
Father’s Day
This year, Father’s Day is celebrated on the 4th of September. This day is a day to honour fatherhood and those father figures in our lives. Father’s Day often sees handmade cards, breakfast in bed, new tools, ties and tees, but the most meaningful gift is expressing you love and gratitude for them.
Teacher’s Mental Health
Teachers are often doing multiple things at once. Always thinking ahead for class lessons, assessment marking, organising other activities within the school, on top of your own personal and family life outside of the classroom. This can be overwhelming and cause a lot of stress.
The Assumption of Mary
On the 15th of August we celebrate The Assumption of Mary. The Assumption commemorates the belief that when Mary died, rather than going through the natural process of physical decay on Earth, both her soul and body were taken to Heaven, to be with her Son, Jesus.
International Youth Day
International Youth Day celebrates the importance of the contribution that our youth make to society, and to ensure that they are being heard. This year, we celebrate International Youth Day on the 12th of August.
Transfiguration of the Lord
The Transfiguration of Jesus is illustrated in the Bible, where he transfigures in radiant glory on the top of the mountain in front of Peter, James and John. This event, being one of the 5 major milestones of the life of Jesus, teaches us about the transformation we go through as one of his followers.
St Mary Magdalene Feast Day
Mary Magdalene was a disciple of Jesus. She was one of the witnesses to his Crucifixion and burial and was the first person to see him after his Resurrection. This led her to be called ‘The Apostle of Apostles’. She has been a symbol of penitents for nearly 2000 years. We celebrate her Feast Day on the 22nd of July.
Father Mike Schmitz – RIM
In an Ascension Presents YouTube video, Father Mike Schmitz spoke about a common feeling of Christians and feeling spiritually burnt out and wanting to quit. He goes on to introduce an idea, RIM. This acronym stands for Relationship, Identity, Mission – 3 key reminders in a sequential order, to feel spiritually fueled. So what do they mean?