Advent Reflection

This Sunday marks the first Sunday of Advent. A time when Christians around the world focus on a deepening relationship with the Creator.  It is often marked by a calendar or wreath and each new week begins a new focus; hope, faith, joy and peace.

Week 1 Hope

The Shawshank Redemption is one of my favourite movies. It is littered with great quotes and themes touching on friendship, purpose, dignity and hope.

Red (the hardened lifetime prisoner) had taken Andy (new prisoner) under his wing and was helping him navigate prison life. The following conversation occurs early in the film as Red is cautioning Andy about hope in such a dark place.

Red …"Hope is a dangerous thing, my friend, it can kill a man..."

Andy …"Hope is a good thing, maybe even the best of things. And good things never die."

You might know the story and that in time Andy escapes and Red gets parole. Red, now an old man is heading to Mexico where he has planned to meet up with Andy. 

Whilst gazing out of the bus window he thinks with a smile.

“I hope to see my friend and shake his hand. I hope the Pacific is as blue as it has been in my dreams. I hope.”

Hope is an expectation or desire for a particular outcome or the belief that something positive will happen in the future. It involves optimism and confidence, especially in difficult or uncertain situations.

Psychologists see hope as a mental state that motivates people to pursue their goals, overcome obstacles, and stay resilient. It provides emotional strength during hardships, encouraging people to persist despite challenges.

In religious contexts, particularly in Christianity, hope sits with Faith and Charity as one of the three virtues signifying trust in God'. It’s a belief that fosters peace and perseverance.

As you and your family move into the first week of Advent I hope that you hope!

Transition to 2025

On Monday the children began their transition into new year levels for 2025. This process will occur over the next two weeks before the formal Orientation Day on Tuesday 10th December. This transition is an important phase, as it helps children adjust to new routines, learning expectations, and social environments.

St Joseph’s staff focus on supporting emotional, social, and academic development to ensure smooth adjustments. The teachers take these transition opportunities to get to know the children a little, promote socialisation among children who might not have been in the same class together and observe new social dynamics.

The class grouping and transition/orientation process provides a supportive environment where all children can thrive and feel confident in their continued educational journey.

Matthew O'Brien, Principal