Dear Parents and Carers of Good Samaritan,

What a terrific couple of weeks we have had as a school community! Last week’s Welcome BBQ and Open Twilight were great events that demonstrated the community spirit that we have all missed so much at Good Samaritan.

I thought it was just wonderful to see our older students so willingly give back to  their community by joining in with both these events. Our Captains and Vice Captains  along  with the Year  5 hosts did a terrific  job of demonstrating what it means to be a Good Samaritan boy or  girl.

I think our students highlighted the importance of putting your hand up and volunteering in order to contribute to the community. This is such an important life lesson for children and shows them how easy it can be to give a little and receive a lot in return. This is a selfless act as  they received nothing back other than extended time with their friends and their teachers.

My sincere thanks and gratitude is extended to all our parents who supported their child in coming to these events - without you the children are not able to fully participate in their community.

The hospitality that our students extended to the visitors to our school reflects the thoughts of St Benedict known as the ‘Rule’ of St Benedict. Benedict’s ancient rule about hospitality  might be the most famous and influential part of his writing which shall inspire us all. It reads: 

‘All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ.’

Pope Francis has  also spoken about hospitality in one of his many homilies saying that hospitality is about learning to live differently that it is about turning from a path of only being focused on ourselves to taking a path of life, generosity and love. Pope Francis tells us that hospitality is about adopting a mentality that welcomes, accepts and cares - I think we have seen this in our community this term.

As we journey, together, with Jesus this week,

Toni Sillis

Principal