Last Wednesday  10^th March, the life of Fr Kevin Barry-Cotter was celebrated at the Cathedral in Manuka and he was laid to rest in Canberra.

Fr Kevin was St Mary’s Parish Priest from 1995 -2005 and would be fondly remembered by families and staff in our community today. Fr Kevin was a very gentle and humble man who made Jesus real in all he did and said. He was a strong advocate for Catholic Education and had a wonderful connection to our school during his time here.  We give thanks for the life of Fr Kevin and  his time in West Wyalong. May he rest peacefully now with his God.

Hope as “living water” enabling us to continue our journey.

The Samaritan woman at the well, whom Jesus asks for a drink, does not understand what he means when he says that he can offer her “living water” (Jn 4:10). Naturally, she thinks that he is referring to material water, but Jesus is speaking of the Holy Spirit whom he will give in abundance through the paschal mystery, bestowing a hope that does not disappoint. Jesus had already spoken of this hope when, in telling of his passion and death, he said that he would “be raised on the third day” (Mt 20:19). Jesus was speaking of the future opened up by the Father’s mercy. Hoping with him and because of him means believing that history does not end with our mistakes, our violence and injustice, or the sin that crucifies Love. It means receiving from his open heart the Father’s forgiveness.

In these times of trouble, when everything seems fragile and uncertain, it may appear challenging to speak of hope. Yet Lent is precisely the season of hope, when we turn back to God who patiently continues to care for his creation which we have often mistreated (cf. Laudato Si’, 32-33; 43-44). Saint Paul urges us to place our hope in reconciliation: “Be reconciled to God” (2 Cor 5:20). By receiving forgiveness in the sacrament that lies at the heart of our process of conversion, we in turn can spread forgiveness to others. Having received forgiveness ourselves, we can offer it through our willingness to enter into attentive dialogue with others and to give comfort to those experiencing sorrow and pain. God’s forgiveness, offered also through our words and actions, enables us to experience an Easter of fraternity.

Through recollection and silent prayer, hope is given to us as inspiration and interior light, illuminating the challenges and choices we face in our mission. Hence the need to pray (cf. Mt 6:6) and, in secret, to encounter the Father of tender love.

Message of the Holy Father Francis for Lent 2021

Dear Lord of infinite wisdom and knowledge, help me to always place my trust in Your goodness and care for me.

Help me to daily turn to You in my need and to trust that You will answer my prayer according to Your perfect will.

I place my life into Your hands, dear Lord.

Do with me as you wish.

Jesus, I trust in You.