Volume 12

Dear God,

We thank You for the life and example of Saint Mary MacKillop, Australia’s first canonised saint, who showed us how to live with courage, compassion, and faith.

May her trust in Your providence inspire us to serve others generously, especially those in need, and to always act with kindness and justice.

Help us to follow her example by being people of hope, who bring light into the lives of others through our words and actions.

Saint Mary of the Cross, pray for us, that we may grow in love, faith, and service each day.

Amen

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

Upcoming School Masses

We have two significant school Masses taking place over the next two Fridays. Tomorrow, we celebrate the Feast of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia’s first canonised saint. The following Friday, we honour the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Both Masses will begin at 9:00am, with students leading the singing and readings. Families and parishioners are warmly invited to join us in these special celebrations.

Catholic Performing Arts Festival

Tomorrow marks the beginning of our school’s participation in the Catholic Performing Arts Festival. Our recorder ensemble, having practised diligently, is ready to perform at Orana Catholic Primary School. On August 14, our talented dance group will take the stage at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC), and our school choir will perform at the Vasto Club on August 28. Additionally, we are proud to have several impressive visual art entries featured in the Angelico Art Exhibition. Providing students with opportunities to express their creativity and passion for the Arts is something I value.

2026 Enrolments

We are currently conducting interviews for 2026 enrolments. While most interviews are for Kindergarten, places are available across all year levels. I’m grateful for the positive word-of-mouth recommendations within our community, which continue to support our school’s growth.

As a token of appreciation, families who refer a friend to our school—and whose child subsequently enrols—will receive a complimentary sports shirt for their own child. Please refer to the flyer included in this newsletter for more details.

Naturescape Update

If you’ve driven along Grandis Boulevard recently, you may have noticed the exciting transformation taking place at the top of our oval. The landscaping for our Naturescape project is progressing well and is on track to be completed by the end of the month. We look forward to unveiling this new space for our students to explore and enjoy.

In Harmony

Martin Tucker

Principal

SCHOOL TIMES

Start: 8.25am

Finish 3.00pm

Monday - Finish 2.00pm

KINDERGARTEN TIMES

Start 8.25am

Finish 2.45pm

Monday - Finish 2.00pm

3 YEAR OLD KINDY

Tuesday

Start 8.45am

Finish 2.45pm

BREAKFAST CLUB

Wednesday 7.45 - 8.15am

HUNGRY JPs CANTEEN

Thursday Recess & Lunch

SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

Holy Communion Parent Meeting

On Tuesday 12 August at 5pm there will be a parent and student information evening, held in the Parish hall. This meeting is an essential part of the lead up to your child’s special day. The meeting is an opportunity for clarification of logistics of the ceremony, and for parents and children to recall together what this special Sacrament is all about.

Please pray for all the candidates who will be receiving the Sacraments this term.

Sacramental Reminders – Key Dates:

These are the important dates for parents to note in their calendars:

Sacrament of Holy Communion– Sunday 31 August 9.30am

Parent & student information meeting – Tuesday 12 August 5pm

Student retreat day – Wednesday 13 August

MASS

On Friday 8 August we will celebrate the Feast day of Saint Mary of the Cross Mackillop with a school Mass at 9am in the Church. We invite all members of our community to join us.

On Friday 15 August we will celebrate the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary with a school Mass at 9am in the Church. Again, all members of our community are welcome to join us.

AUG

Fri 8 - Saint Mary of the Cross Feast Day Mass 9am
Fri 8 - Performing Arts Recorder Ensemble @Orana CPS 11am
Tues 12 - Sacrament of Eucharist Parent & Child Workshop 5pm
Weds 13 - Y4 Sacrament of Eucharist Retreat Day
Thurs 14 - Performing Arts Dance @PCEC 6.30pm
Fri 15 - The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mass 9am
Fri 22 - Year 1 Liturgy
Thurs 28 - Performing Arts Choir @Vasto Club 11am
Fri 29 - 2J Class Assembly
Sun 31 - Sacrament of Holy Communion

MASS TIMES

Mon - Fri: 7.45am

Sat: 9.30am & 6.00pm

Sun: 9.30am

RECONCILIATION, BAPTISM & WEDDINGS

By appontment via the Parish Office at St John Paul II Catholic Church.

PARISH PRIEST

Fr Bernard Lanarolle

PARISH OFFICE

PH: 6300 3800

ARE THESE YOUR QUESTIONS?

· Can I believe in a God who really loves me?

· I want to develop my relationship with God but where do I begin?

· What do Catholics believe anyway?

· How can I find peace and serenity in this troubled world.

· How can I help my children with their questions about God?

If you wish to learn more about the Catholic faith please ring the Parish Office to arrange a time to chat with Fr Bernard. Our parish will soon begin some enquiry gatherings to support those searching for a deeper faith and understanding of the Catholic faith.

“ A new journey starts when you take the first step”

ENQUIRIES; St John Paul 11 Parish office 63003800

There is no obligation to become a Catholic

BANKSIA GROVE YOUTH GROUP SURVEY & INFO NIGHT

We’re excited to explore the possibility of starting a new youth group here at our parish - and we’d love your input! Whether you're a parent, young adult, teen, or simply someone passionate about supporting youth in our church, we invite you to complete a short survey to help shape what this ministry could look like. Your feedback will guide us as we plan activities, meeting times, and areas of focus.

You can find the survey by scanning the QR code.

To review the survey results and continue the conversation, we’ll be hosting an Information Night soon. Everyone is welcome to attend - especially those interested in helping build a vibrant and faith-filled youth ministry. Let’s work together to create something meaningful for the young people in our community. Thank you for your support!