St Joseph’s runs a comprehensive program of Religious Education for students at the school. While Religious Education lessons form a part of each day, Christianity is a way of loving and therefore should influence every aspect of our school life. We strive to deepen the child’s understanding and knowledge of the Catholic faith, as well as developing a climate that will help children grow in their faith relationship with Christ.
Religious Education becomes meaningful when young people relate their study to real life situations. At St Joseph’s, Religious Education certainly takes on this dimension. It also endeavours to help the students develop Christian attitudes and values which they will try to live out in the family, school and the local community.
Liturgical celebrations are an intrinsic component of the Religious Education program. Opening School Year and Closing School Year Masses and Grandparents Day Mass are our major liturgical celebrations. We also celebrate Mothers' and Fathers' Day with a breakfast, liturgy and activities. School liturgies are celebrated each Monday afternoon at 2.40pm. Mass is celebrated on special feast days throughout the year. Parents and family friends are always most welcome and actively encouraged to join all class and school religious celebrations. Preparation for the Sacraments of Penance, Eucharist and Confirmation is family based and supported by parish and school programs.
To support others in our local community and further afield, the school holds a fundraising event at the end of each term. The funds and donations support:
- Caritas –Through Project Compassion which is an annual Lenten fundraiser awareness-raising appeal is an extraordinary, ongoing demonstration of the faith, love and generosity of the Catholic community and caring supporters throughout Australia to help end poverty, promote justice and uphold dignity. This is held in Term 1.
- Catholic Mission – Students support the fund raising focus of Catholic Mission each year. Catholic Mission operates in over 160 countries to support initiatives in 1,100 dioceses, including remote Australia. Grassroots needs are identified by local Catholics, to give people the opportunity for a full, enriched life—physically and spiritually—regardless of race, stigma, religion or gender. This event is held in Term 3.
- Our local St Vincent de Paul organisation – The school participates in the Winter and Christmas Appeal. These appeals allow students and families to help assist and support people in their local environment who need it the most. This is held at the end of Terms 2 and 4.
