Celebrating our Faith
Project Compassion
Lent is a time of reflection, giving, and helping those in need. This year, we invite families to take part in raising funds for Project Compassion, an initiative by Caritas Australia that supports vulnerable communities worldwide. Encouraging children to contribute—whether through small sacrifices, creative fundraising, or family giving—teaches the values of generosity and compassion. Every donation, big or small, makes a difference. Let’s work together to create a brighter future for those in need! Students have collection boxes in their classrooms for donations.
Celebrating St Joseph’s Day at St Joseph’s Primary School, Merewether
At St Joseph’s we come together each year to celebrate St Joseph’s Day, honouring our patron saint and the values that guide our school community. Inspired by the message in our school song, we strive to follow St. Joseph’s example of faith, kindness, and service.
On this special day, we reflected on the strong foundations of our school, built on the principles of love, respect, and perseverance. Just as St. Joseph worked humbly and faithfully, we are called to support one another, always standing together as a community.
Students participated in a liturgy and moments of reflection, reminding us to “always do our best” and live out the values that make our school a welcoming and inclusive place for all.
Happy St Joseph’s Day! Let’s continue to walk in his footsteps, shining brightly in faith and kindness.
Here are some student reflections and photos from our celebration:
Parish Sacramental Program - Invitation from Fr. Greg Barker
Dear Families,
I am looking forward to having many opportunities to meet you over the course of my time as the parish priest of this wonderful parish here in the inner city of Newcastle. In my role I would personally like to invite you to an information evening to be held in the Sacred Heart Cathedral on Wednesday 26 March 2025 commencing at 6.30pm as we launch our Sacrament process for 2025. The Sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation and First Eucharist will complete the process you began when you had your precious child baptised. There is room at our table for those of other faiths including those from other Christian communities and those of many varied religious backgrounds who would like to become Catholic. As a parish we try and make this journey enjoyable, stress free and simple as we possibly can. The parish had been given three dates for Confirmation this year (20th, 23rd and 29th May) and our process will be geared to those celebrations. If your child is in Year 3, 4, 5 or 6 and would like to be Confirmed and make their First Eucharist come along and join us om Wednesday 26 March. and hear more about this exciting time in our and your life together. I look forward to seeing you there.
Kind regards,
Fr Greg
Parish Priest
St Joseph’s Social Justice Team (SJSJ)
This year, we are excited to form the 2025 St Joseph’s Social Justice Team! Made up of passionate students, this team will lead initiatives that promote compassion, fairness, and service within our school and the wider community. Through fundraising, advocacy, and hands-on projects, they will put their faith into action and make a real difference.
We look forward to seeing our students grow as leaders of change and invite families to support their efforts throughout the year. Stay tuned for upcoming initiatives and ways to get involved!
Way of the Cross
This year’s Way of the Cross will continue our pilgrimage experience that began with the Jubilee Launch. Come and walk with fellow pilgrims and build relationships as we share our responses to Pope Francis’ invitation to become agents of hope within our own communities. Join us!
Time: 3:00 pm
Date: Sunday, 6th April.
ST JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC CHURCH, TORONTO
140 Wangi Road, Toronto NSW 2283
ENQUIRIES: mission@mn.catholic.org.au
St Joseph’s Church Now Open Daily (Monday - Friday)
Parish Bulletin
https://www.newcastlecatholic.org.au/weekly-bulletins/
Parish Sacramental Program Meeting:
- Wednesday 26 March 6:30pm at The Sacred Heart Cathedral
Project Compassion – Fundraising continues
Holy Week Celebrations:
- Monday 7 April Class/Grade Liturgy for Palm Sunday
- Thursday 10 April Class/Grade Liturgy for Holy Thursday
- Friday 11 April Whole School Liturgy focusing on Good Friday 9:00am – All Welcome!
Leanne Skinner
Religious Education Coordinator