The Rhythm of Prayer

In my last message, I wrote about patterns, saying, ‘We aim to establish rhythms in our school and classrooms that reflect Godly practices.’ This has led me to reflect on the many patterns we have at school and to ask, ‘Why do we do them?’
One of the rhythms we follow as staff is gathering each morning from 8.10am to 8.30am for a time of prayer and devotion. Why do we do this? Wouldn’t that time be better spent preparing for the day in our classrooms? Yes, teachers have plenty to do—but we believe prayer is essential.

Paul David Tripp writes:
’Prayer abandons independence. Prayer forsakes any thought that you can make it on your own. Prayer affirms dependency. Prayer tells you that you are not at the centre. Prayer calls you to abandon your plans for the wiser plans of another. Prayer flows from a deep personal sense of need and runs toward God's abundant grace.’

So why do we as a staff, dedicate 20 minutes each morning to prayer? Because it is a privilege to begin the day together, acknowledging our dependence on a gracious God, affirming that we work for His kingdom, and setting aside our own self-interest. Prayer strengthens our unity as a staff, reminding us that we are not just educators but Christian educators, guiding the hearts and minds of children. It helps us realign our priorities, ensuring that we approach each day with wisdom, patience, and grace. Through prayer, we seek God's strength for the challenges ahead, His wisdom in our teaching, and His love to shine through all we do.

Is this daily reminder important? Absolutely! That’s why this rhythm remains a priority for us, shaping our hearts and our school community each and every day.

Margaret Louw - Principal

Thank you to those parents who have volunteered to help out with coaching/assistant coaching so far. We are still needing more volunteers to be coaches/assistant coaches for a Kinder/Prep team (combined), Year 1 and Year 3. Unfortunately without coaches we will be unable to go ahead with those teams. Please contact us as soon as possible if you are able to assist.

Sam and Emma Laning - Soccer Coordinators selaning@iinet.net.au

Friday 21 March is National Ride to School Day. Students and parents are encouraged to ride their bike to school as part of the National Ride2School Day. This ride will leave from Snug @ 7.50am on Friday 21 March and will go along the shared cycle path from Snug, with a detour via the Dave Burrows track, according to the attached map. There is the option for less experienced riders to join us at the intersection of Gemalla Road and the Dave Burrows walk at 8.20am.

We are excited to announce our upcoming Easter at Channel event on Saturday 5 April from 12.00 - 2.00pm, and we need your help to make it a memorable day for everyone! This fun-filled event will include a free BBQ, various activities, a performance, and a gospel message.

This event is designed to serve not just our school community, but the broader community as well. To ensure the day runs smoothly, we are seeking quite a number of volunteers for the following roles:

• Craft Activities: Assist with craft activities including rock paint, cross decorating and a scavenger hunt.

• Face Painting: Showcase your artistic skills by painting faces.

• Cooking: Help with preparing and serving the BBQ.

• Set Up and Pack Up: Assist with preparing and setting up before and after the event.

Your support will be invaluable in creating a joyful and engaging experience for our community. A link will be forward separately to sign up.

Please extend this invitation to your family and friends. It is a wonderful opportunity to come together, celebrate, and share the joy of Easter with our neighbours and friends.

Any further questions please call Andrew Swan on 0490 069 961.