Dear Prospective Parents,
I hope this welcome finds you well and filled with the blessings of knowledge, love, and truth, which are the cornerstones of our school motto here at St Teresa's Catholic School.
As we continue our journey together, we are guided by a vision and mission that profoundly resonates with our commitment to your child's holistic development. Our vision and mission reflect our unwavering dedication to providing a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
At St Teresa's, we believe in each child's inherent potential and strive to ensure they reach their highest potential. Central to our approach is the understanding that every child has a unique story, and we are committed to addressing their needs with empathy and support. This perspective allows us to focus on addressing lagging skills rather than attributing challenges to motivation or inherent flaws.
Our foundation is rooted in Jesus Christ's teachings, and we draw inspiration from Catherine McAuley and St. Therese of Lisieux's vision. Through their example, we cultivate a school community where spiritual and academic growth go hand in hand. We believe in instilling values of knowledge, love, and truth in our students, preparing them for a lifetime of learning and service to others.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, we remain committed to our core principles of being student-centred, safe, and nurturing. We employ non-punitive, non-exclusionary strategies to enhance relationships and skills, ensuring that every child feels supported and valued.
We are grateful for your continued trust and partnership in your child's education journey. Together, we will continue to uphold the values of St Teresa's Catholic School and work towards creating a community where every child can flourish.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to our students' continued growth and success in the days and years ahead.
As we reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ, we find guidance that profoundly shapes our school's values and mission. The following Gospel reading from Mark 9:33-37 presents a powerful lesson that challenges societal norms and underscores the significant role that all children play in our future world. In this passage, Jesus emphasises humility, service, and the intrinsic value of children, offering a radical redefinition of true greatness. This scripture inspires us to create an environment where every child is valued, listened to, and nurtured, reflecting the heart of our educational philosophy.
Warmest wishes,
Michael Aitken (Principal)
A reading from the Gospel attributed to Mark (Mark 9:33-37)
33 Then they came to Capernaum, and when he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the way?” 34 But they were silent, for on the way, they had argued with one another who was the greatest. 35 He sat down, called the twelve, and said to them, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.” 36 Then he took a little child and put it among them, and taking it in his arms, he said to them, 37 “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me.”
Reflection
The Gospel reading from Mark 9:33-37 presents a profound teaching from Jesus Christ that challenges societal norms and emphasises humility, service, and the intrinsic value of children. In this passage, Jesus addresses the disciples' preoccupation with status and greatness, offering a radical redefinition of what it means to be "first."
Upon arriving in Capernaum, Jesus inquired about the argument among his disciples. Their silence reflects their embarrassment over arguing about who among them was the greatest. Jesus seizes this moment to teach an essential lesson about true greatness in the Kingdom of God. He states, “Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.” This statement directly challenges the prevailing social hierarchy, which values power and prestige. Jesus reorients the concept of greatness to one of humility and service, suggesting that authentic leadership is characterised by selflessness and a willingness to serve others.
To illustrate his point further, Jesus takes a child, places the child among the disciples, and embraces the child. He then says, “Whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes not me but the one who sent me.” In the cultural context of the time, children were often seen as insignificant and lacking status. By placing a child at the centre, Jesus emphasises that the least and the most vulnerable in society are to be given utmost importance. Welcoming and valuing a child is akin to welcoming Jesus himself and, by extension, welcoming God.
This scripture highlights the wisdom and purity inherent in young people, urging adults to listen deeply and learn from them. It critiques the selfish and ego-driven choices often made by adults, who may prioritise their own status over genuine care and humility. The passage challenges us to reconsider our social values and embrace a model of leadership and community that is inclusive, compassionate, and rooted in service.
Jesus’ words directly challenged the social mores of his day and remain relevant today. They invite us to examine our attitudes toward power and greatness and recognize the profound truth that real greatness lies in humility and service to others. By valuing the child and the vulnerable, we align ourselves with the values of the Kingdom of God, where the last are first, and the first are last.
This teaching compels us to reflect on how we interact and value those often overlooked or marginalised. It calls us to foster environments where the voices of the young and vulnerable are heard and respected, recognising that their presence and wisdom are essential to our collective well-being. Through this lens, we see that embracing humility and service transforms our relationships and brings us closer to the divine.
Our Prayer of Welcome
Today, let us be like Jesus and connect in a relational way to the fullness of our community. Perhaps it is the creator God who is sitting with you in the circle, with you, speaking truth and walking with you on ‘the way’. Youmay like to join us as we share this prayer together…
Loving Creator,
Companion on the Journey,
Spirit of Wisdom,
Open our eyes.
So that we can see you in those we encounter.
Prepare our hands.
So that we can receive the bread that is broken and share it with those who hunger for more.
Break open our hearts.
So that we may live a life that is of, and in this world.
We ask this prayer, one with the Trinity who accompanies us on the
Journey. Amen.