The heart of a Catholic School and the reason for its existence is its Special Character. We are at the beginning of another school year and continue to strive to live a life of being true to the Gospel values, even in challenging times.

We begin the term by focusing on the power of prayer and how by praying in different ways we can deepen our relationship with Jesus. Our tamariki are learning about the many different ways we can pray. 

 There are several simple ways we can encourage our children to have a rich prayer life. One example is to join the worldwide Catholic community in using Pope Francis’ monthly prayer focus. Please keep these intentions in your prayers. 

 February 11 is World Day of the Sick, an observation started by Pope John Paul II as a way for believers to offer prayers for those suffering from illnesses. The day coincides with the commemoration of Our Lady of Lourdes. People around the world take the time to pray for the sick and for those who work very hard to alleviate the suffering of the sick on this day. 

 Prayer is about our relationship with God. Like any relationship, it requires time. Some of us are used to praying on the run, but our relationship with God cannot flourish unless we find time to be fully present to God: speaking and listening to one another, sharing silence or beauty, delight or sorrow.