Dear Parents, Guardians, Staff, Students and the wider St. Joseph’s Primary School Community; we have all survived, learnt, grown and had an opportunity in 2020 to focus on what is really important; each other, family, learning and relationships. We are indeed gifted to all be together and connected to St. Joseph’s Primary School, our Parish and the Warrnambool community.

 As my last formal communication with the community today I again encourage all to view our Final Assembly and our Graduation Mass, all delivered in a “COVID-19 Friendly” way. What bravery and commitment by all in 2020!

This week our 2021 Foundation students have also been visiting school to see their classroom and classmates. Our current students have all been working hard with their Numeracy time and will, I’m very sure, share great insights for our teaching program for 2021.

As the school year comes to a close I again acknowledge the outstanding effort of each individual associated with St. Joseph’s. I pass on my deep gratitude for everyone's patience, support and the honest sharing of challenges. This all makes our school better.

Christmas speaks to the spirit of our faith, it speaks of relationships and a world of Hope. I conclude my message today by sharing a beautiful part of our staff prayer for Friday and the Pope Francis “Ten Commandments for Joy”.

Prayer: Advent God of hope! With the dawning of each new day we place our trust in you! We remember that Hope sees the invisible, feels the intangible and achieves the impossible. (Quote from Charles Caleb Colton). Amen.

Pope Francis’s “Ten Commandments of Joy” to help enrich our lives, guide us in supporting each other and help us live with JOY!

1. "Live and let live."
2. "Be giving of yourself to others."
3. "Proceed calmly" in life.
4. Have "a healthy sense of leisure."
5. "Sundays should be holidays." Spend Sundays with family and friends and even some time for yourself.
6. "Create dignified jobs for young people."
7. "Respect and take care of nature."
8. "Stop being negative."
9. "Respect others' beliefs."
10. "Work for peace."