Dear Parents/Carers,

The gospel reading last Sunday was Luke's account of Jesus predicting the 'destruction' of the temple in Jerusalem. This passage can read as a depressing and hopeless situation for the followers of Jesus as he speaks about the persecution that awaits them for being his believers. However, as Gilberto Ruiz, an American theologian points out: "Despite its language and imagery of destruction, Luke 21:5-19 is ultimately a passage grounded in hope -- in the hope that God remains present in the world and in one’s life even when things have gotten so bad that it feels like the world is closing in on us." I wonder how often we attune ourselves to the presence of Jesus when things are not going well. When our heart is open, He can enter and fill us with hope.

Following on from the announcement made last week regarding the Principalship at Holy Family from 2020, I would like to congratulate Mrs Rolfe on her appointment. I have known Michelle for several years as a colleague Principal in our diocese, and can I assure you that she will be a wonderful addition to the school. Michelle is a compassionate, professional and energetic Catholic educator who will lead with great integrity and visibility. She is very excited about leading Holy Family and I am pleased for the school community knowing that she will maintain the good things that are happening while also bringing her own fresh ideas.

As was explained in a note that went out earlier this week, our school's Christmas concert will be led by Peter Kearney, a religious singer, songwriter and recording artist. This link (http://www.peterkearneysongs.com.au/bio/) will take you to his website if you are interested in finding out more about him. We hope that you will be able to join us on the night (Wednesday 4 December) for what promises to be an engaging celebration of the Christmas story. 

Wishing you a safe and happy fortnight,

Paul Moroney

Please keep Fr Peter and his family in your prayers following the passing of his dear mother, Mary, on Sunday morning. Her funeral will be held next Monday at St John's Parish Church in Dapto.

Eternal rest grant unto Mary, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her.  May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.  Amen.

The process of preparing draft class lists for 2020 has begun. This process takes into consideration the academic, social, emotional and physical needs of each individual student. Teachers work hard at making decisions to establish balanced, equitable class groups with the potential to work well together. As the teachers know the students within the school environment exceptionally well, the best interests of each individual student is always considered during the discernment process. 

If you wish to inform us of any needs that may impact on class placement, written requests can be submitted either through the class teacher or via an email to info@hfidow.catholic.edu.au marked in the subject line – 2020 Class Formation. You are asked to do this by Friday 29 November. 

It is important to note that whilst your requests are considered, there is never a guarantee that these requests will be granted. Please be aware that there may be circumstances surrounding such requests that may prevent it from being granted.

All parents have the opportunity, via an anonymous online survey, to provide input into areas affecting the education of their children and the general functioning of the school. All feedback is greatly valued and will assist in contributing not only to the preparation of the Annual School Report but also to the future directions in planning for school improvement.

You can complete the survey via this link (https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VMZ3HHJ). Alternatively, a paper copy can be collected from the school office.

We are pleased to advise that our school has been endorsed to receive an annual funding entitlement for the National School Chaplaincy Program (NSCP) for 2020-2022. This means that the work of a Pastoral Support Worker (currently Mr Dodds) will continue for at least the next three years. Sincere thanks to the parents who submitted a response to the survey that was distributed last teem.

Holy Family “Yule be Happy“

That special time of year has once again come around very fast. This year our annual Christmas event will be held in Holy Family Church.

The students will be led by Catholic musician and singer, Peter Kearney. The students will participate in workshops on the day with Peter and all grades will perform carols throughout the night. All children are expected to attend the evening.

As the Christmas celebration will be held in the Church, it is important to remember that we as a school community are respectful and show reverence for the occasion and venue.

The P & F has kindly agreed to provide a sausage sizzle BBQ and drinks on the grassed area in front of the Parish/School Hall.  A gold coin donation would be appreciated. All proceeds raised will go to help those less fortunate through our local St Vincent de Paul Society Christmas appeal.

What: Christmas Family Concert

Where: Holy Family Church

When: Wednesday 4 December

Time: From 5:30pm BBQ (Grass area)     6:30pm - Christmas Concert begins (Church)

Dress: Students are asked to wear Christmas colours (Predominantly red, green or white), no reindeer ears, tinsel or Santa hats etc.

We look forward to sharing the Christmas spirit with you.

Please note that the last day of School Banking is THURSDAY 5 DECEMBER 2019. Please note change of usual banking day. 

Feast of the Immaculate Conception:

The Holy family will celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception during Vigil Mass on the 7 December at 5:30 pm.
The Vigil Mass time will be moved from 6pm to 5:30pm to accommodate the following proceedings and to encourage families with younger children to attend this Feast Day Mass. At 6:45pm following the Vigil Mass, all parishioners will join a Rosary Procession within the Parish grounds, to venerate Our Blessed Mother.
At 7:30pm, all parishioners are invited for a light meal at the School hall. Please feel free to bring a plate for sharing with our community. All meal offerings can be made at the stall, at the front of the Church (before Mass).

St Vincent De Paul Society Christmas Appeal 23/24 November 2019:

The Ingleburn St Vincent de Paul Members invite you to help local struggling families again this Christmas. There will be many ways in which you may be able to help over the next two weeks.

On the Appeal weekend there will be:
(1) Envelopes on the pews for monetary donations,
(2) Gift tags on the Christmas tree for presents needing to be purchased for children (suggested value $15-$20), and,
(3) Christmas card envelopes in which $10.50 may be placed which will be used by us to purchase movie passes and candy bar vouchers for the older children.

This year we are also seeking:
(4) Gifts for the adults (particularly the single parents and the elderly) such as boxes of chocolates, towels and gift
soaps, or any non-perishable festive foods.
NOTE All types of donations need to be brought to the church by the last Mass on Sunday 8 December.

The Minto St Vincent de Paul members are holding a monetary appeal. Envelopes will be available at the church.

Thanking you so much for your support,
The Ingleburn and Minto St Vincent de Paul Members.