Dear Parents/Carers,                                                                        

It is the Sunday before the newsletter goes out. I have just returned from mass to write this newsletter as the gospel reminded me about the importance of a teacher’s work, which is my work, and is especially important to reflect on as we move into fete week.

The Gospel was from John’s Gospel (13:31-35), where Jesus says:

“I shall not be with you much longer.

I give you a new commandment:

love one another;

just as I have loved you…

By this love you have for one another,

everyone will know that you are my disciples.”

When things are challenging for the children at school, I constantly remind them of this love, which is not the “mum and dad” love but the “Jesus” love. Until you have children of your own, I genuinely believe one can never really understand the love of a parent for their child. However, the “Jesus” love is something we can all share with each other. This is all about care for another human being, even your enemy! This is the love you show for another when it is something that is wrapped in forgiveness. This is the type of love that focuses on the better good of all, rather than your own needs. If we, as teachers, aren't able to share this with the children and each other (we can be the greatest academic, get the best results at university) we will fail miserably as an educator because first base is to be able to portray this message to the children in action, before any learning can happen.

So what has this got to do with the St Paul’s fete this Saturday? The real gift of the fete isn’t the money raised—it’s the love and effort that each person puts in to make it a success. This love, demonstrated through action, creates lasting memories for the children. They’ll carry the spirit of the fete with them long after they leave St. Paul’s, returning years later as parents to relive the experience.

Our teachers also play a big part in this tradition, volunteering their time, helping at stalls, and ensuring the fete remains a cherished part of our school culture. Together, as a community, we create something special that goes beyond what can be measured in dollars.

The St Paul’s Fete is about the “Jesus” love displayed by all  that keeps us together in community. Recently, a student asked me how they could show their teacher how much they were loved. It’s a tough question to answer because love, in its purest form, can’t always be put into words. But after Mass this Sunday, I realised the answer lies in our actions. 

Thank you to everyone who contributes to making this such a wonderful event. I look forward to seeing you all there!

Go Gently,