Week 1, Term 2 2025

“He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.”

Matthew 28:6

I often try to imagine what it would have been like to be one of the women who went to Jesus’ tomb that morning to find the stone rolled away. The women, who were sad about Jesus’ death did not stay home but instead “rose” and went out early that morning to perform a work of mercy, taking the perfumed ointments to the tomb. The stone in front of the tomb was rolled aside, not so Jesus could come out, but so that they could look inside and see that he was indeed gone.

The angel spoke to the women, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?” The women were frightened. Within their sadness and fear the women also felt something else: new hope. Without hope life cannot be found.

Jesus opened his tomb so we may enter. Let us open our sealed tombs so that Jesus may enter our hearts. He is the beacon of hope that grants us life.

As we remember the life and legacy of Pope Francis, we give thanks for a leader who walked closely with Jesus and with everyday people. He was not a Pope who sought status or grand gestures. He lived simply, spoke honestly, and reached out to the poor, the brokenhearted, and the forgotten, always reminding us of the power of kindness, compassion, and humility.

Pope Francis came from ordinary beginnings, the child of immigrants, a teacher, a man who once worked as a nightclub bouncer. But he answered Jesus’s call and let God do extraordinary things through him. In simple actions, washing the feet of prisoners, embracing the sick, comforting those who mourn. He showed us what it means to live the Gospel.

In our Catholic school community, Pope Francis’s life is a reminder that holiness is found in everyday choices, in the way we treat others, speak with love, and live with faith. He showed us that God calls ordinary people, like each of us, to do extraordinary things when we walk in love.

As we pray for the Church and its future, may we also give thanks for the witness of Pope Francis,  a humble shepherd whose worn shoes and open heart showed the world the true face of Christ.

Welcome back to Term 2! I hope the Easter break was a time of rest, reflection, and connection for you and your loved ones. We were certainly blessed with beautiful autumn weather, the kind that encourages us to slow down, take a breath, and appreciate the simple joys in life.  I trust the holidays brought you peace and renewal.

This Easter season, Christians around the world journeyed through the powerful story of Jesus’ death and resurrection, a story of hope, renewal, and the strength of love. During this sacred time, we also received the sad news of the passing of Pope Francis, a deeply respected and much-loved spiritual leader. Pope Francis’ legacy of humility, compassion, and tireless advocacy for the poor and marginalised will continue to inspire generations. As he reminded us so often; we encounter God in the people we meet in our everyday lives. May he now rest in peace in the eternal embrace of that same love.

It has been wonderful to see our students return to school with such positivity and enthusiasm. Congratulations to all for making a strong and settled start to the new term. I’d also like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the students and staff who represented our school community at the recent ANZAC Day Dawn Service, and to everyone who contributed so generously to Project Compassion at the end of Term 1. While these two occasions are quite different in their origins and purpose, both provide rich opportunities for our students to connect with history, reflect on values of service and sacrifice, and consider how we each play a role in building a more just and compassionate world.

Just as important as literacy and numeracy, learning to be an active and responsible citizen is a vital part of education and key to nurturing a healthy democracy for future generations.

Classrooms are buzzing with curiosity and creativity, and our staff are energised and ready for the term ahead. Thank you for your ongoing support in ensuring children arrive on time, in uniform, and ready to learn. These seemingly small things have a big impact.

A special welcome back to Mrs Jaylee Gropler, who re-joins our staff team this term and will be working in the R–2 Team. Jaylee brings great energy and warmth to our youngest learners, and we are thrilled to have her back at St Joseph’s.

Next Friday, we warmly invite all mothers, stepmothers, grandmothers, aunties, and special people to join us for An Afternoon with Mum or Someone Special as we celebrate the love and care you bring to your children's lives. Beginning at 2:10pm, guests will be treated to a delightful afternoon tea and a few heartfelt surprises from the students. As we look ahead to Mother’s Day on Sunday, this is a beautiful opportunity to pause, connect, and celebrate the special role you play in your child’s journey. We look forward to sharing this  afternoon with you.

In Week 3, we celebrate Catholic Education Week, a special time to reflect on the unique gift of Catholic education in our community. This year’s theme, Seeds of Hope, invites us to nurture the gifts within each child and help them grow in faith, love, and purpose. Throughout the week, our students will participate in a variety of joyful, reflective, and community-building activities, including our House Cup Carnival, a combined schools day at St Francis of Assisi College in Renmark, Walk to School Day, and a colourful Crazy Hair and Sock Day. These events highlight the spirit of Catholic education, one that encourages connection, compassion, celebration, and hope for the future.

As we head to the polling booths for the Federal Election this weekend, we give thanks for all those who have courageously put themselves forward to serve our nation. May we, as a community, vote with wisdom, integrity, and hope for the future.

Nanda de Winter

Principal

Our student leaders proudly represented St Joseph’s School Barmera by laying a wreath at the Barmera Dawn Service. With respect and gratitude, they honoured the brave men and women who have served our country. Lest we forget.