Catholic Identity – The Catholic school
At St Mary’s, we are invested in the education of the whole person – spiritually, physically, academically, emotionally and socially. We are inclusive of all in our community who respect and support the Catholic mission of the school. Our mission is to continue the works and teachings of Jesus within our world. To be people of love, joy and hope who show respect for all, are willing to serve, have the courage to stand up for what is right and just, have the capacity to build and maintain relationships and to work for justice and peace so that all may live life to the full.
Religious Education
An individual’s Religious Education is a lifelong journey and attending a Catholic School nurtures this. St Mary’s integrates the Source of Life program into the curriculum daily. The program was designed by quality educators within the Diocese of Sandhurst and is delivered during the school week. Prayer, liturgy and attendance to Mass is also an integral part to one’s faith development and the school partakes in such traditions regularly. Concepts, values and key messages taught in Religious Education underpin all that we say and do. All students enrolled at St Mary’s are taught Religious Education and are expected to take part in these experiences.
Religious Education in the contemporary world aims to;
- Foster within each individual a relationship with God.
- Immerse children in the story of the Catholic Faith Traditions and to understand the faith traditions in others.
- Create better self knowledge and nurture the faith and spiritual journey of all at St Mary’s
- Actively commit to acts of Social Justice and Reconciliation and recognise that these are grounded in the story of Jesus.
Sacramental Program
Students are introduced to the Sacraments of Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation in Year 2 through the curriculum. In Years 3 and 4 students are invited to celebrate their First Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation.
The Sacramental program, preparation and celebration is a Parish based approach. St Mary’s Parish Sacramental Team members consist of parishioners, teachers and parents. St. Mary’s Parish and St. Aloysius’ Parish Moama, work together to support children in preparation to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation and Eucharist. This collaborative approach hopes to support families as they journey with their children in the next stage of their faith development. The Sacramental program is conducted in small groups run by parents outside of school hours.
Enrolment forms for the sacramental program can be obtained by contacting the parish offices.
St Mary’s Parish
St Mary’s school and parish welcome every opportunity to connect with the St Mary’s community. Our school could not exist without our Parish and we openly invite all children and parents to be active members of our Parish and faith community. Our Parish Priest, Father Novielito Lim, is deeply involved in our school which gives the students a sense of belonging and spiritual guidance.
Parish Information:
Parish Priest – Fr Novielito Lim
Parish Pastoral Associate – Christine Sebire
Parish Office Hours:
Monday: 9am – 12 noon
Tuesday-Friday: 8.30am — 3pm
224 Anstruther Street, Echuca 3564, Ph: (03) 5482 1127, Fax: (03) 5482 1451