From the Religious Education Coordinator

From the Religious Education Coordinator

In our Church …

 

The Feast Day of Saint Gertrude: November 16

Gertrude, a Benedictine nun in Helfta, Saxony, was one of the great mystics of the 13th century. Together with her friend and teacher Saint Mechtild, she practiced a spirituality called “nuptial mysticism,” that is, she came to see herself as the bride of Christ. Her spiritual life was a deeply personal union with Jesus and his Sacred Heart, leading her into the very life of the Trinity.

But this was no individualistic piety. Gertrude lived the rhythm of the liturgy, where she found Christ. In the liturgy and in Scripture she found the themes and images to enrich and express her piety. There was no clash between her personal prayer life and the liturgy. The Liturgical Feast of Saint Gertrude the Great is November 16.

Reflection

Saint Gertrude’s life is another reminder that the heart of the Christian life is prayer: private and liturgical, ordinary or mystical, but always personal. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-gertrude-the-great

 

In our Community …

 

Hope in Action – Social Justice Statement
On 5 November, we embarked on a social justice event at ACU North Sydney. Along with other students from Sydney Catholic Schools, we were confronted with current issues faced by some in our society; from homelessness to mental health issues, whilst understanding the difficult decisions individuals are actively facing. We discussed how we can use our catholic social teachings to bring the marginalised back into our community.
 
We gained much insight on these current social justice issues and how to live out the good news of our Lord Jesus to see His Face through them. From group activities to thought provoking talks, we were able to come together as the younger generation of social justice activists to put our faith into action.  
 
‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ – Matthew 35:40
(Lara, Mariam, Sade and Zara, Year 10)
 
 
Social Justice at Domremy: St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal – Bringing Hope This Christmas

As we approach the Christmas season, we are reminded of the importance of generosity, compassion, and community. This year, more than ever, the St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies) needs our support to help families who are struggling to make ends meet.

The cost-of-living crisis has reached a worrying new low. Right now, 3.3 million people in Australia are living in poverty – that’s more than one in eight. Many are skipping meals so they can afford to feed their children, pay rent, and keep the lights on. Others are searching for a safe place to sleep at night.

In recent months, thousands of families have reached out to Vinnies for the first time, while many others are now relying on short-term relief just to survive day to day. Without urgent support, more people risk being trapped in a long-term cycle of poverty and disadvantage.

At this special time of year, we invite our school community to make a difference through the Vinnies Christmas Appeal. Every contribution – big or small – can help provide families with immediate relief and the lasting support they need to rebuild their lives.

Families and students can donate by bringing in non-perishable food items (such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and Christmas treats).

Together, we can bring hope, joy, and dignity to those who need it most this Christmas. Let’s continue the mission of compassion and service that defines our community – because every act of kindness can make a world of difference.

Families and students can have a look at the link below to see what each House has been asked to bring in.

House Donation Lists

“No act of charity is foreign to the Society of St Vincent de Paul.”

Please give generously. 

Ms Cristina Peros, Social Justice Coordinator

 

Mrs Caroline Morizzi, Religious Education Coordinator