Week 3 - Term 2

Dear Families,

Welcome to Week 3 of Term 2! It has been a vibrant and purposeful start to the term, with students returning to their learning with renewed energy and focus. Our dedicated teachers have also returned refreshed and are working with great intent to support the learning and wellbeing of every child in our care.

🌟 Catholic Education Week: Celebrating 180 Years

This week (12–18 May), we join 100 other Catholic schools across South Australia in celebrating Catholic Education Week. This year’s theme, #ShineWithOpenHearts, beautifully captures the spirit of Catholic education—encouraging students to shine through kindness, compassion, learning, and leadership.

This year is especially significant as we mark 180 years of Catholic education in South Australia, a milestone that coincides with the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year. Dr Neil McGoran, Executive Director of Catholic Education South Australia, reminds us:

“180 years of Catholic education in South Australia is an outstanding achievement and one that we should all be proud of. This year’s theme reminds us of the identity, mission, and enduring values that guide our schools.”

🕊 A Moment in Church History

In recent weeks, the Catholic Church has experienced a historic transition with the passing of Pope Francis and the election of Pope Leo XIV. These are momentous events for Catholics around the world, and we take this time to reflect on Pope Francis’ legacy and offer our prayers for Pope Leo XIV as he begins his ministry.

We invite our community to join in a universal prayer, included later in our newsletter.

🗳 Federal Election and Education

Australia’s recent Federal Election has brought education into the national spotlight. Regardless of political affiliation, we hope the new government continues to prioritise the wellbeing, learning, and future of all children. We look forward to seeing strong commitments to education upheld by the Albanese government.

💐 Mother’s Day Celebration

Last Friday, we celebrated the wonderful mothers, grandmothers, and significant women in our children’s lives. A heartfelt thank you to Sarah McCabe, Leonora Radosav, Jenn Dullens, Charmaine Fieter-Norris, and their team of helpers for organising such a beautiful event.

We hope all mums had a joyful Mother’s Day! We’re also looking forward to the Sunset Soirée at West Beach this Sunday—fingers crossed for a stunning evening!

🏃‍♀️ Cross Country Success

On Monday, our talented cross country team competed in the district selection carnival. Thanks to the dedication of Mr Daley and Mr Goldy, our students were well-prepared and performed brilliantly.

Congratulations to Chanel Maio, Alessandro Gariboli, Stephen Rapuano, and Rori Porplyzia who placed in the top tier of competitors,  meaning they will represent our school at the State Carnival at Oakbank Racecourse later this term!

🏅 Sporting Spirit at St Francis

At St Francis, we are proud to offer a wide range of sporting opportunities for all students. Led by the dynamic duo James and James, our PE program ensures every child has the chance to participate and thrive. We are incredibly grateful to all our teachers for their energy, expertise, and commitment to student wellbeing through sport.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in your child’s learning journey. We look forward to the weeks ahead with hope, joy, and open hearts.

Warm regards,
Phil Schultz
Principal, St Francis School

HABEMUS PAPAM – WE HAVE A POPE!

Honouring the Legacy of Pope Francis

During a recent staff liturgy, we came together in reflection and gratitude to honour the remarkable legacy of Pope Francis. His unwavering dedication to social justice, his profound humility, and his compassionate leadership have left an indelible mark on the world. As a community, we gave thanks for his life’s work and the inspiration he continues to provide through his example of faith in action.

“A little mercy makes the world less cold and more just.”
— Pope Francis 

This quote beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Pope Francis’s mission and the values we strive to embody in our own lives and work.

Habemus Papam – We have a Pope!

Welcoming Pope Leo XIV

We joyfully welcome the newly elected leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost. His election marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first U.S.-born pope and the first pontiff from the Augustinian order.

Born in Chicago in 1955, Pope Leo XIV brings a rich cultural heritage—of French, Italian, and Spanish descent—and decades of pastoral and missionary experience, particularly in Peru, where he served for nearly 20 years. His ministry has been shaped by a deep commitment to social justice, outreach to the marginalized, and a pastoral style rooted in humility and service.

In his first public address from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV offered a message of unity and hope:

“Peace be with all of you! … This is the peace of the Risen Christ, an unarmed and disarming peace, humble and persevering. It comes from God, God who loves us all unconditionally… Without fear, united hand in hand with God and among ourselves, let us move forward.” 

As a community, we offer our prayers for Pope Leo XIV. May the Holy Spirit guide him with wisdom, courage, and compassion as he leads the global Church into a new chapter of faith and unity.

Winter Appeal

Last week, you will have received communication through Seesaw about our Winter Appeal.  The Adelaide Day Centre for Homeless Persons have asked for our support in donating clothing items or cans of soup for the homeless.  As many of the homeless are predominately adults we ask that you please adhere to the following list in adult sizes:

• Raincoats
• Jackets
• Gloves
• Scarves
• Hats
• Track pants
• Socks
• Small umbrellas

The greatest need is for Blankets and Sleeping Bags

The Winter Appeal will commence Friday 16^th May and continue until Thursday 5^th June 2025.

Social Justice Leaders

2025 Social Justice Leaders

I’d like to introduce our Year 6 Social Justice Leaders Bella, Olivia and Sofia.

We welcome their enthusiasm and compassion as they organise initiatives to support and promote Social Justice causes throughout the year.

Catholic Ed Week

Catholic Education Week will be celebrated across South Australia from May 12-18, 2025. The theme for this year’s Catholic Education week is Shine with Open Hearts. During the week we will celebrate Mass with Year 3 students and families. Students will be sharing some of the ways they can shine brightly as a member of the St Francis community to bring hope to others.

Jesus is the ‘Light of the World’. As followers of Christ, we are called to reflect His light, bringing hope and guidance to others. John 8:12

PBIS (Positive Behavioural Intervention Strategies)

As part of our ongoing commitment to the Positive Behaviour Intervention strategies (PBIS) framework, we continue to implement school-wide strategies that promote a positive and respectful learning environment.

Our current focus is “Being Responsible When We Learn.” Students are encouraged to demonstrate responsibility in their learning by:

• Looking after their belongings
• Being organised
• Arriving prepared and ready to engage

These regular reminders help to build a consistent and supportive culture where all students can thrive.

Class Masses and Liturgy of the Word Term 2 2025

• May 14^th   Year 3 Mass, Christ the King Church at 9:15am
• May 21^st   Year 2 Mass, Christ the King Church at 9:15am
• May 25^th   Year 1 Mass, Christ the King Church at 9:15am
• June 11^th  Reception RLF, RRC & RTP Liturgy of the Word Christ the King Church 9:15
• June 25^th  Year 6 Mass, Christ the King Church at 9:15am
• July 3^rd (Thursday) Year 5 Liturgy of the Word, Christ the King Church at 9:15am

NB please check with class teachers for confirmation of Mass/Liturgy time.

God Bless & God guide