Term 2 Week 3 of 11
Friday, 9th May 2025
Message from the Principal
Today as a community we celebrated Mother’s Day by having a Mass, visiting classes and
having a wonderful morning tea. I wish all the mum’s and all the special females in children’s
lives a wonderful day on Sunday. Mums and those that care for children are so important.
I wish to thank my mum, Maureen for caring for me and helping me especially as I was
growing up and for being a wonderful Grandma to my children.
I draw great inspiration from Mother Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, not just for her role in
giving birth to Jesus, but also for the way she nurtured, supported, and suffered alongside Him.
Mary was a loving mother by being:
Loving and Protective: From the moment of the Annunciation, when she accepted her role as the mother of the Son of God, Mary showed deep trust and love. She protected Jesus, fled with Him to Egypt to avoid Herod’s massacre, and raised Him with care and devotion.
Faithful and Strong: Mary stood by Jesus through His ministry and suffering. At the foot of the cross, she witnessed His crucifixion—a moment that emphasizes both her immense emotional strength and her unshakeable faith.
Model of Motherhood: In Christian theology, especially in Catholicism, Mary is seen as a model for all mothers. Her life embodies humility, patience, and a nurturing spirit.
Spiritual Mother: Beyond being Jesus' mother, Mary is often called the "Mother of the Church" because she intercedes for us and cares for all believers.
Best wishes and Happy Mother’s Day
Best wishes,
Deputy Principal: Learning & Organisation
A Reflection: Audience with Pope Francis
For those who have been here for a few years, you may remember seeing some information about me attending the Emerging Leaders program in 2023, where I was joined by other leaders from MACS schools all over Victoria on a very special pilgrimage to Rome, Assisi and Lisbon in Portugal. You may have even seen the San Damiano cross that I gifted the school that was purchased when I passed through Assisi on my pilgrimage. This is displayed in the school reception foyer!
It is hard to put into words exactly what I experienced but in an attempt to put it simply; it was a profoundly spiritual experience that has deepened my personal faith and given me a greater understanding of what it means to teach and lead in Catholic Education. I am conscious that I have gained so much to share and am committed to share these experiences in hopes of inspiring others with the important insights and messages we received from both local and international figures, including the Holy Father himself.
Being immersed in so many experiences where we had the opportunity to encounter Christ was one of the highlights for me. There were many times where I felt very emotional in certain places, particularly at the Basilica of St Mary Major, something that I never felt before. This has since become the resting place of the late Pope Francis. Something that was extremely special on this trip was that we had a surprise audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican.
Something that was extremely special on this trip was that we had a surprise audience with Pope Francis at the Vatican. On 27th July 2023, we were told our itinerary had changed and we were going to visit the Vatican. Unsure about what the day had in store for us, we walked through the streets of the Vatican, led by Archbishop Peter Comensoli and guided by Vatican security into the media room we so often saw when the Pope made his addresses. It was a bizarre feeling and really something that felt so unreal! We were asked to be still and silent, then requested to stand to welcome none other than the Holy Father himself! I can assure you there were tears, gasps of disbelief and very shocked members of the trip in that very special room.
In the private audience with Pope Francis, he spoke of the central theme of embracing others with open arms. In a sometimes divided and indifferent world, Pope Francis’ words reminded us how powerful love and unity can be. In his presence, you were made to feel like you knew him already - there was a significant sense of familiarity and knowing in the room. The eye contact with everyone in the room, the smile and the genuinely loving way he spoke to us was like nothing I had ever experienced. The feelings of gratitude were deep and profound. Pope Francis even gifted us all with some blessed rosary beads on the day.
It became obvious very quickly in our private question time that Pope Francis was very in touch with the issues facing our world, our youth and our church today. He was a highly intelligent and empathetic man who emphasised above all else to us to remember God never tires of loving us.
God meets us wherever we are at and offers love, unconditionally. His advice to the private audience of educators, leaders and seminarians was to simply, in his words, “be normal!” Be you - God loves you!
"The only time that we are allowed to look down upon others: when we are offering to help them up." Pope Francis (Saturday August 5th, 2023)
These words express a powerful truth: our true strength as a community comes from reaching out to help others, standing with them in their challenges, and offering sincere support.
May God grant eternal peace to Pope Francis, whose life was devoted to compassion, justice, and humility. May his legacy continue to inspire love and unity throughout the world.
2025 Whole School Photo Day
Thursday 15th May
We are excited to announce that school photos are now available for ordering. Below are the ordering instructions and all orders must be completed online via the Elite School Photography website : https://eliteschoolphotography.com.au/ prior to the photo day Thursday 15th May using the login code ESP202515. To ensure that there is a consistency across all photos regarding the wearing of the school uniform and that our formal school photos represent both your child and the school as best as we possibly can, we have asked that all students are in the school’s Winter Uniform. Junior school students are asked to wear their full school winter uniform instead of their sports uniform.
We are aware that there are several families that will be away on extended holidays. Therefore, we have arranged for a photo catch up day just in case you're not back by Thursday 15th May. The photo catch up day has been booked for Thursday 22nd May with only siblings (family and individual photos are taken.
Wellbeing, Child Safety & Community Leader
COMING SOON TO RESURRECTION..
THE BUDDY ZONE
The student Leaders in year 5 and 6 who meet weekly with Ms Marie, organise school assemblies and have meaningful discussions about how to make our school and world a happier and safer place. They are all a very committed and enthusiastic group to work with and have already come up with one idea. That will benefit us all.
A Buddy Zone
This idea emerged because the leaders wanted all students to feel more included and connected to the Resurrection school family. You will notice 3 seats in the yard painted in red, yellow, green and blue. The leaders chose this colour design because it represents each one of us through the house colours.
The student leaders hope the Buddy Zone will;
Ensure no one feels alone especially is your friends are not at school or you can’t find your friends
Provide an opportunity to meet new people - make a new friend
Be a place to seek some support or help when there is a friendship problem
Be a place to feel safe
Offer an area to self regulate and calm down
Be a place to sit when we are in the blue zone or red zone
Seasons for Growth is a program for a small group of similar aged students who need help and support dealing with GRIEF, LOSS or CHANGES that may have occurred in their life. This program offers an opportunity to talk about their experiences and develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes to understand and respond in a healthy way.
There are many factors that can cause grief, loss or changes such as major friendship changes; family separation; loss or death of someone they care about; loss of a pet; relocation and forced migration- refugees; living away in out of home care; etc In the Season’s for Growth program, there will be 8 weekly sessions of 40 minutes and provided a safe space to share their views, thoughts and feelings with their peers. The sessions will be guided and led by Marie (Student Wellbeing Leader)
Mother’s Day Artwork
Over the past three weeks, our children have been using their creativity and love into their art, crafting beautiful paper bead earrings and charm bracelets as special gifts for their mums. Their dedication and enthusiasm have truly been inspiring!
Wishing all the wonderful mothers a very Happy Mother’s Day — may your day be filled with love, joy, and appreciation.
Resurrection Feast Celebration
Last Friday, we celebrated our Resurrection Feast! It is time where we as a community stop and reflect on the miracle of Jesus’ Resurrection. Central to the day was our Parish and School Mass. When celebrating Mass, we are reminded that the term “Eucharist” originates from the Greek word Eucharistic, meaning thanksgiving. We are thankful for all that Jesus has done for us.
During Fr. Gerard’s homily, he reflected on the words of Pope Francis, ‘Resurrection is a "seed of light" that can take root in our hearts and can change us for the better. May we as a school and parish community continue to nurture this seed so that both ourselves, and the wider community can grow to be the best that we can be.
After Mass, the students were treated to a Krispy Kreme doughnut and shared lunch out on the school oval. It was so beautiful to see both old and new families joining us to celebrate this occasion.
SUNDAY GOSPEL
This Sunday’s reading is from the Holy Gospel according to John 10:27-30
I give my sheep eternal life.
Jesus said:
‘The sheep that belong to me listen to my voice;
I know them and they follow me.
I give them eternal life;
they will never be lost
and no one will ever steal them from me.
The Father who gave them to me is greater than anyone,
and no one can steal from the Father.
The Father and I are one.’
Gospel Reflection
Shepherds in the first century did not have a particularly good reputation. Whilst the task itself was a responsible one, it was usually undertaken by hired help – usually young men or even boys. Being hired help, they had little allegiance to the flock and were generally regarded as basically untrustworthy and often accused of illicitly selling off the sheep’s milk and even the occasional lamb. They lived for months at a time out in the hills with the sheep; often risking their lives in defence of their flock, yet still regarded with suspicion. Shepherds were held in such low regard that they could not appear in court as a witness. Yet, despite this grim picture of shepherds, Jesus described himself as the Good Shepherd. With that one word, he acknowledged the reputation of shepherds but utterly dismissed it by describing himself as a shepherd – but a good shepherd. He chose to describe himself as the worst of all occupations but raised the status to unimpeachable heights.
In describing himself as the good shepherd, Jesus joined a distinguished list of biblical shepherds: Abraham, his son Isaac, and grandson Jacob were all shepherds; Moses was tending the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, when God appeared to him in the burning bush and revealed God’s name; and the great King, David, began life as a humble shepherd-boy. So, despite the poor reputation of shepherds in Jewish society, some of the greatest leaders of the Jews began life as shepherds.
Today’s gospel passage follows the famous ‘good shepherd’ passage in the gospel of John and continues on the image. The passage portrays Jesus as ‘claiming’ his flock; guaranteeing them not only safety but also eternal life. This oath of loyalty and commitment is all the stronger and more remarkable in light of Jesus’ rehabilitation of the status of shepherds.
Scriptural context - The Father and I are one
The final sentence of today’s passage has Jesus declaring, ‘The Father and I are one.’ It seems a fitting way to finish the gospel reading for liturgical use in the Easter season. However, the passage in John’s gospel continues. Immediately upon hearing these words, the listening crowd grab rocks and are about to stone Jesus to death! They were horrified by his apparent blasphemy – claiming to be one with God. Such a bold declaration of oneness with the Father was no doubt used by the gospel writer to try to eradicate emerging questions about the divinity of Jesus.
Gospel Focus - Eternal life
In the gospel passage, Jesus says of the sheep that belong to him, ‘I give them eternal life.’ He does not say, I give them the promise of eternal life. The message that comes through the gospel of John is clear that eternal life is not some future existence, but rather a new way of being in the here and now. But that is not to suggest that there is not an ‘eternal’ quality to eternal life. The gospel of John makes clear that eternal life begins in the here and now but has no end.
Student of the Week Awards
Week 3
One C
Dorothy Hall
Samuel K - For being a respectful and responsible learner; consistently listening to the speaker and following all instructions.
Violet T - For consistently challenging herself in her learning and always adding details to her writing.
Two B
Belinda Collins
Elisse C - For showing she is ready to learn by beginning tasks promptly and trying her best to complete activities.
Maddie V - For consistently attempting new skills to improve her writing
Two C
Sarah Hull
Arcadia S - For helping Miss Hull learn all the classroom rules as a new teacher to the school, and being a positive role model to other students. Well done Arcadia, your enthusiasm for learning and willingness to put in extra effort is amazing!
Jarell J - For being a shining example of what it means to be a Resurrection student. You have shown me in the last week that you respect yourself and others, are responsible for your learning and you are resilient even if things are hard! Keep it up.
Japanese:
Yumiko Aiki
Summer Z (2B) - For being responsible and respectful in Japanese learning by demonstrating excellent Japanese skills in her class. Keep up the good work Summer!
Performing Arts:
Jody Banks
Mia Q (1A) - For her consistent enthusiasm when participating in Performing Arts activities, and for demonstrating excellent expression when singing, dancing and acting in class. Keep up the fabulous Performing Arts skills, Mia!
Visual Arts:
Emma Lyons-Pell & Tosh Kaan
Harlow Muscat (3C) - For always being a kind and responsible learner and helping her peers during Visual Arts classes. Fantastic work Harlow!
S T E M:
Joanne Abos-Padilla
Arcadia A (2C) - For sharing valuable contributions about the planets to the class and working collaboratively. Your enthusiasm for learning and willingness to support your peers is inspiring!
P.E:
Nathan Koprek
Hugo O (1C) - For always being a respectful learner and demonstrating spectacular throwing and catching skills in our sport class. Fantastic work
Prep A
Olivia Duvcevski
Hudson C - For demonstrating excellent effort in partitioning numbers to 5. Keep up the great work!
Prep B
Kurt Caguin
Marvin K - For showing a big improvement in his attitude towards learning and putting in his best effort. Well done Marvin!
Julia N - For writing informative sentences about cows and including a great picture to match. Well done Julia!
Prep C
Carla Krsticevic
Clara N - For always showing a willingness to attempt challenging tasks and a fantastic effort in using the sounds you know to write new words.
One A
Thomas Pham
Teigan F - For consistently completing your learning activities with care and to the best of your ability. Congratulations Teigan!
Daniel P - For sounding out words and remembering to use finger spaces when writing sentences. Keep up the great work Daniel!!
One B
Sophie Dillon
Matthew D - For displaying a great level of focus during writing and completing all of your work to the best of your ability. Well done!
Pan Lai - For showing outstanding improvement in your behaviour and responsibility.It has been great to see your efforts to make positive changes.
One C
Dorothy Hall
Samuel K - For being a respectful and responsible learner; consistently listening to the speaker and following all instructions.
Violet T - For consistently challenging herself in her learning and always adding details to her writing.
Two B
Belinda Collins
Elisse C - For showing she is ready to learn by beginning tasks promptly and trying her best to complete activities.
Maddie V - For consistently attempting new skills to improve her writing
TERM TWO DATES 2025
Week 4
Monday - 12/5
Years 3-6 Assembly at 2:30pm
Tuesday - 13/5
Formation Session at 7pm - 8pm
Wednesday - 14/5
Fr Gerard visiting Senior School classes at 10am School Advisory Council (SAC) at 7pm
Thursday - 15/5
2025 School Photos
Friday - 16/5
Senior School Year Level Mass 9am
Saturday - 17/5
Sunday - 18/5
Third Sunday of Easter
Week 6
Monday - 26/5
Years 3-6 Assembly at 2:30pm
Tuesday - 27/5
Wednesday -28/5
Thursday - 29/5
Fr Gerard visiting Middle School classes at 10am
Friday - 30/5
Middle School Year Level Mass 9am
Deputy Principal network
Saturday - 31/5
Sunday - 1/6
Seventh Sunday of Easter
Week 8
Monday - 09/6
School Closure: King’s Birthday Public Holiday
Tuesday - 10/6
Parent support group meetings (PSGs)
Wednesday -11/6
Parent support group meetings (PSGs)
Fr Gerard visiting Junior School classes at 10am
Thursday - 12/6
Parent support group meetings (PSGs)
Friday - 13/6
Junior School Year Level Mass 9am
Deputy Principal network
Saturday - 14/6
Sacrament of Eucharist 6pm
Sunday - 15/6
The solemnity of the Holy Trinity
Sacrament of Eucharist (9am & 10:30am)
Week 10
Monday - 23/6
Years 3-6 Assembly at 2:30pm
Tuesday - 24/6
Wednesday -25/6
Reports returned to teachers
Thursday - 26/6
Friday - 27/6
Year 5 Dance Battle (Prep to Year 4 audience)
Saturday - 28/6
Sacrament of Eucharist 6pm
Sunday - 29/6
The Solemnity of Saints Peter & Paul, Apostles
Week 3
Monday - 5/5
Mother’s Day Stall all day in the hall
Prep - Year 2 Assembly at 2:30pm
Tuesday - 06/5
Wednesday - 07/5
School Improvement Network - leadership team (off-site)
Thursday - 08/5
Friday - 09/5
Mother’s Day Mass & Morning Tea: Open classrooms till 10:30am
Saturday - 10/5
Sunday - 11/5
Fourth Sunday of Easter Mother’s Day
Week 5
Monday - 19/5
SCHOOL CLOSURE: All staff professional learning - Resurrection Way
Tuesday - 20/5
Wednesday - 21/5
National Simultaneous Storytime at 12pm Executive Team Leadership Huddle 3 of 6 School Advisory Council (SAC) at 7pm
Thursday - 22/5
Friday - 23/5
Saturday - 24/5
Sunday - 25/5
Sixth Sunday of Easter
Parish and Middle School Family Mass at 10:30am (First communion focus)
Week 7
Monday - 02/6
Prep - Year Assembly at 2:30pm
Semper Dental Van onsite
Tuesday - 03/6
Semper Dental Van onsite
Wednesday - 04/6
Semper Dental Van onsite
Thursday - 05/6
Friday - 06/6
Saturday - 07/6
Sacrament of Eucharist 6pm
Sunday - 08/6
Pentecost Sunday
Sacrament of Eucharist (9am & 10:30am)
Week 9
Monday - 16/6
Prep - Year 2 Assembly at 2:30pm
Dynamic Youth Citizens Excursion (Ms Marie & four student leaders)
Tuesday - 17/6
Wednesday -18/6
Reports due to leadership
Thursday - 19/6
Fr Gerard visiting Prep classes at 10am
Year Prep (Buddy) Year Level Mass 9am
Friday - 20/6
2026 Prep applications close today!
Saturday - 21/6
Sacrament of Eucharist 6pm
Sunday - 22/6
The Solemnity of the most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
Sacrament of Eucharist (9am & 10:30am)
Week 11
Monday - 30/6
Prep - Year 2 Assembly at 2:30pm
Tuesday - 01/7
Wednesday - 02/7
Thursday - 03/7
Friday - 04/7
Year 5 Dance Battle (Prep to Year 4 audience)
Saturday - 28/6
Last Day of Term 2
Whole School Mass at 9am
Semester 1 student reports sent home Dismissal Time 3.15pm
Sunday - 29/6
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
