As we approach the conclusion of our Lenten journey, we find ourselves on the cusp of the Easter season, a time of profound spiritual reflection and celebration. This week marks our final days of Lent, leading up to Easter on April 20th. We hope that this period has been a meaningful time of spiritual growth, providing space for God in your lives and preparing your hearts for the joyous Easter celebrations with your families.

Last Friday, our entire school community came together to commemorate the Stations of the Cross, a powerful remembrance of Jesus' final earthly moments. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the students who volunteered to participate in this significant spiritual experience, and a special thanks to Mr. Miller for organizing this important school prayer event.

We are pleased to share the comprehensive Easter timetable for our Young Mission Parishes. This schedule offers multiple opportunities for community members to participate in various Holy Week services across different locations. From the Second Rite of Reconciliation to Easter Sunday Masses, there are numerous ways to engage in spiritual reflection and celebration.

PALM SUNDAY
Sat. 12th Apr -   6.00pm - Young          
Sun. 13th Apr -  8.00am - Grenfell      
                       10.00am - Young   
                         5.00pm - Boorowa  

CHRISM MASS
Mon. 14th Apr - 5.00pm - Canberra   All welcome to join St Christopher’s Cathedral   (Cnr of Canberra Ave & Furneaux St, Forrest)   
Tue. 15th Apr -  5.45pm -  Young 
Wed. 16th Apr -  8.00am -  Young   

MAUNDY Thursday    

Thur. 17th Apr   - 6.00pm - 

Young      - 6.00pm - Boorowa  

(Altar Repose will be only for 1 hour after the Mass in the Chapel)   

GOOD FRIDAY   

Fri. 18th Apr - 10.00am -  “Walking” Stations of the Cross  at Young Arboretum Park commencing at the Yass Street bridge     (for Young Mission)    

Stations of the Cross at 10.00am - Grenfell (Liturgy)   

VENERATION OF THE CROSS  

Fri. 18th Apr - 3:00pm -  at Young   - 3.00pm -  at Boorowa    (Remember to bring a flower or native leaves to put near the cross when    your time comes to venerate at the Altar)   

EASTER Vigil:    Sat. 19th Apr - 7.00pm  - Mass at Young   - 6.00pm  - Mass - Grenfell   EASTER SUNDAY:    

Sun. 20th Apr  - 8.00am - Mass at Boorowa   

9.00am - St Clement’s Monastery, Galong     

10.00am - Mass at Young  

On Tuesday, our school celebrated an extraordinary event combining physical activity and charitable giving. Our Cross Country and Colour Run was a remarkable success, with over 270 students participating and raising funds for Margaret House, a domestic violence shelter chosen by our Year 12 students. We extend our sincere appreciation to Mr. Croese and Bob Ashton for their dedicated efforts in organizing this impactful event.

Hennessy Catholic College has a proud tradition of attending all the ANZAC Day celebrations in our region. If you would like to attend an ANZAC Day service in full school winter uniform, please complete the Google form on Compass. This is an important opportunity for our students to honor and remember the sacrifices made by Australian and New Zealand service members.

Hennessy Catholic College will be engaged in the Seasons for Growth program for students seeking extra support around change in their lives. This could involve changes in friendship groups, family situations, living arrangements, health, or moving to a new place. Students will be placed in age-appropriate groups of a maximum of 7 students, working with a confidential and trained program provider from Catholic Care once a week for 8 weeks beginning in Term 2.

The RAGE Program has received an excellent response in Term 2 and will be running a new cohort in Term 3. This strengths-based program aims to help young people aged 11-17 identify and manage feelings of anger. Topics covered include:

- The many faces of anger

- The 4 Ts of anger

- Healthy expression of anger

- Getting through the guilt of anger

- Relaxation, exercise, and diet

The program runs for 6 weeks with hands-on, practical, and engaging one-hour sessions. If interested, please contact mary.wright@cg.catholic.edu.au by April 11.

Students will return to school on April 29th in full winter uniform, including ties. It is crucial to ensure that your complete winter uniform is prepared before returning to school. Please note that ANZAC Day falls on the last Friday of the school holidays and is a public holiday.

Hennessy Catholic College is implementing Stymie, an anonymous harm reporting tool designed to support student well-being. Stymie empowers students to report concerns without fear, helping to create a culture of care within the school community. Built in consideration of the Australian Student Wellbeing Framework and recommendations from the Australian Covert Bullying Prevalence Study, this tool provides a safe way for students to speak up.

Students and staff will be briefed on using Stymie in stage groups throughout the day on Tuesday, April 29th. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to creating a supportive and safe learning environment for all students.

As we transition from Lent to Easter, we invite our entire school community to embrace the spirit of renewal, hope, and compassion. May this season bring you joy, peace, and a deeper connection with your faith and community.