Week 10, Term 3 2024

As we navigate life’s many challenges, it is natural for us to view difficult moments as trials or tests. Whether it’s balancing work and family, supporting our children through school, or facing personal struggles, these moments can feel overwhelming. Yet, in our Catholic faith, we find a profound understanding of what it means to be "tested," and how those tests shape our relationship with God.

In the Bible, the idea of a test is not meant to evoke fear or punishment. Rather, it is part of the way God calls us to grow in trust and faith. Just as God selected His chosen people, He continues to guide and offer us opportunities that allow us to respond to His call with trust in His wisdom. The story of Israel's exodus from Egypt serves as a beautiful example of this.

When the Israelites were trapped between the Sea of Reeds and the pursuing Egyptian army, they felt there was no escape. In Exodus 14:13-14, Moses says to them, “Do not be afraid, stand firm, and see the deliverance that the Lord will accomplish for you today... The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to keep still”. At that moment, their test was not about their ability to act but their ability to trust. As they stood still in obedience to God’s command, they witnessed a miraculous path open through the sea, leading them to salvation.

This pattern of trust in God’s wisdom over our own is repeated throughout Scripture. Adam and Eve, in the Garden of Eden, were given every opportunity to trust in God’s plan for them. The abundant trees were not just a source of nourishment, but a test—a choice to trust God's wisdom or rely on their own judgment. When they chose their own way, they faced the consequences of separation from God. In contrast, when Israel trusted God, they found salvation, even in the most impossible situations.

For us, as parents and as people of faith, this lesson speaks powerfully. We will encounter situations where we feel helpless, or where it seems easier to rely on our own strength rather than surrendering to God’s will. Our children may struggle with friendships, face challenges with their schoolwork, or even experience overwhelming anxiety that we cannot seem to ease. It can make us feel like we have no control. In those moments, we must remember that God does not test us to break us, but to deepen our trust in Him. As James 1:12 reminds us, “Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him”.

As parents, you are doing God’s work in your homes and in the lives of your children. The choices you make, the lessons you teach, and the love you show are all ways in which you pass through the “waters” of testing. Trust that God is with you, just as He was with the Israelites, parting the sea and making a way where there seemed to be none.

May we, as a community, continue to trust in God’s plan and lean on His wisdom. And may we always remember that in the stillness of faith, God will reveal His path to life.

As we come to the close of Term 3, I take a moment to reflect on the incredible term we’ve had at St Joseph’s School Barmera and express my heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support, dedication, and partnership from our entire community.

Staff Appreciation

Our staff have once again gone above and beyond in creating a nurturing, engaging, and inspiring environment for our students. Their passion and commitment to fostering a love for learning have made a profound impact. From the classroom to extracurricular activities, their creativity and hard work have continued to shape a positive, thriving community.

Student Success

Our students have been remarkable this term. Their enthusiasm for learning, resilience, and achievements have been a true testament to their dedication. Whether it was in their academic pursuits, on the sports field, or during the many activities such as the Riverland Primary Schools Musiv Festival, they have embraced challenges with determination. Special highlights were the efforts of the Year 5/6 in fundraising for the Barmera branch of the St Vincent de Paul Society, the Colour Run and the fantastic Sports Day at St Francis of Assisi College in the last week of term. It was a vibrant day of teamwork, friendly competition, and school spirit, where our students showcased their skills and sportsmanship. We couldn’t be prouder of their efforts and enthusiasm!

Parental Support

To our parents and caregivers, your ongoing support has been instrumental in everything we have achieved this term. Your involvement in school activities, open communication, and trust in our school has strengthened our community, making it a better place for our children to learn and grow.

Looking ahead to Term 4, we are excited to build on the foundation we've set, with continued focus on our core values of Kindness, Safety and Learning at the heart of our learning experiences and interactions. We encourage our students to look out for one another and make a positive difference, both in and outside of the classroom.

As we prepare for the exciting activities of next term, including, Whole School Musical, Camps, Carols Night and Splash Day, I hope everyone enjoys a well-deserved break. May you return refreshed and ready to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.

Thank you once again for your continued support and for making this term such a success. I look forward to what we will achieve together in Term 4!

Nanda de Winter

Principal

School Captains Lainie and Hayley proudly presented a cheque for $1,059 to the Barmera St Vincent de Paul Society. This impressive sum was raised by the Year 5/6 students through their participation in the cardboard box sleepout and the Colour Run fundraising events.

Congratulations to Lainie for being awarded the term 3 'Let Your Light Shine Award' for her wonderful contributions to the school's 70th birtday celebrations and to the Minni Vinnies card board box sleep out.