Shining Lights Week 5, Term 4, 9/11/2023

Pastoral Care Class

The first thing we do in the morning at Lumen is to gather together in our Pastoral Care Class families and start the day with prayer- offering all our challenges and successes to God. Sometimes it can be a challenging process to settle twenty or so students for a minute of quiet reflection when all they have on their minds is the business of the day ahead, but that short period becomes an important time to connect with God and each other.

Pope Francis has declared the upcoming liturgical year, beginning in December, ‘The Year of Prayer’. In doing so he stated, “In a word, may it be an intense year of prayer in which hearts are opened to receive the outpouring of God’s grace and to make the ‘Our Father’ the prayer Jesus taught us, the life program of each of his disciples.” Jesus did a pretty good job of summarising his whole message in that prayer. One: we should give glory to God for he gave us everything that exists. Two: there is something to look forward to - a purpose. Three: God will provide for us and show us love, mercy and compassion no matter what our failings. The trade-off being that in return, we should do the same for others.

All good relationships require an element of constructive dialogue and engagement. For the most part, God’s contribution comes through revelation and the stories in the Bible but is also apparent in the loving actions of the people around us. Prayer invokes the work of the Holy Spirit in our world. By simply asking for God’s help or reflecting on the example of Jesus’ life, the decision of how to act in difficult situations can become clear and our actions become the hands of Christ in the world.

We try hard to emphasise to our students that there is no wrong way to pray. Yes, it can be in a formal prayer like the ‘Our Father’, but even a quick acknowledgement or request for strength invites God into our hearts. In return, God offers nothing to the conversation but love.

So, I wish you all a prayerful year ahead and in doing so I’ll end today’s RE team message with a sentence starter... Hey Jesus, it’s been a while…

2024 Primary Captains - announced !!

The LCCC Primary staff would like to congratulate the newly appointed Primary House Captains & Indigenous Captains for 2024. All of the candidates should be proud of their efforts, as they demonstrated exceptional qualities and have been chosen to represent their respective houses in the school community.  

Gudu: Grace Spinks and Harry Howle 

Bobberrer: Kealie Whitford and Shyla Ahlawat 

Monaroo: Isobel Ross and Nixon Hazelton 

Baringa: Jack Van Prooyen and Zara Pestano 

Junior Indigenous Captains: Dominic Salt & Bridie Fleet

Absent today: Harry Howle & Shyla Ahlawat

                      Junior Indigenous Captains: Dominic Salt & Bridie Fleet

to build their skills into the future and take another opportunity when it arises in leadership within the school, whether that is in Primary, as a leader in Years 5 or 6 or going into  Secondary schooling. They are also able to support our elected house captains and develop their leadership skills within the school as they move into Years 5 or 6 with our buddy and peer support programs.  

Leadership in primary school as a Junior Captain or as a Year 5 or 6 student is an invaluable experience that shapes young minds, fostering qualities such as responsibility, teamwork, empathy, and resilience. The role of the Captain carries with it important responsibilities, including organizing events, leading teams, and being role models for fellow students. These young leaders will play a crucial part in creating a positive school environment and promoting a sense of belonging for every student. 

Being a leader in the school builds confidence to make decisions, speak in public, and take charge of various situations. This boost in confidence can have a lasting impact on their academic and personal development. Leadership also promotes responsibility, House Captains are entrusted with various duties, from organizing house competitions, lunchtime clubs and competitions. This responsibility helps students understand the importance of accountability and reliability. 

Being a leader enhances social skills, as leaders in primary school learn how to work with diverse groups of peers, fostering cooperation, effective communication, and the ability to resolve conflicts. It also develops empathy, as leaders, students have the opportunity to listen to the concerns and ideas of their fellow students, allowing them to develop empathy and a better understanding of the needs of others. House Captains serve as role models, inspiring their peers to strive for excellence, exhibit good behaviour, and pursue their goals. Their actions can influence positive behaviour throughout the school. 

It is important to remember that leadership is not just about titles or positions; it is about the positive impact one can make on others. While our Junior Captains have received this honour, we encourage every student to explore their leadership potential in various ways throughout their primary school journey. This may include participating in clubs, volunteering for class projects, or simply being kind and supportive to their classmates.