Dear Parents and Caregivers of Good Samaritan,

Last week was the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi (4 October). St Francis lived for 45 years (1181-1226) and his timeless legacy continues to be honoured by both Catholic and non-Catholics who unite in the simplicity and grace of spirit that captures the human imagination.

St Francis was born in Assisi to quite a well off family. He was a regular young man that we would recognise today as charming, happy go lucky and not too interested in the business of his father. Life events, including being a prisoner of war, led Francis to a life of poverty. He believed that God was speaking to him to look after the poor, the marginalised and those who had lost their way.

Francis never sought out followers however followers began to seek him out. This led to the movement that we now know as the Franciscans. Francis has a strong connection with the Benedictines from whom he rented a small property in a place called Portiuncula (the ‘little portion’). 

Francis loved all creatures. He loved to refer to all creatures as his ‘brothers’ - Brother Sun, Brother Sky, Brother Fish.  He even called the idle members of his community Brother Fly!

Francis’ life was a journey of decisions - many forks in the road where he chose the narrow, difficult way over the wider easier route. He was continually surprised at how that harder road would bring joy time after time.

Francis wanted people to be free - free to be what they wanted to be in their own hearts. He wanted them to be brave enough to ask what they really wanted to do with their life. 

We know St Francis as the Patron Saint of animals, Catholic action, ecology, Italy, merchants and zoos. As I reflected on the life and message of St Francis I was reminded of the actions of our Kindergarten students at the end of last term. Kindergarten built a beautiful garden for us all to share. However, in the building of the garden they gathered the community who worked for Brother Earth.

On the Feast Day of St Francis, Good Samaritan representatives along with St Brigid’s and Parish opened a garden dedicated to St Francis at the Cathedral.

Next time you are in the school walk by the Kindergarten garden or if you are near the Cathedral, take a moment to stop and reflect on Brother Earth and all that that is given to us to share, love and cherish.

Until next time, as we journey together with Jesus and St Francis, 

Toni Sillis

Principal