st. andrew`s parish ~ agm 2016

ST. ANDREW’S
PARISH
Incorporating the Communities of
Werribee Central, Wyndham Vale, Werribee South,
Werribee North, Tarneit West and Little River
GROUP
REPORTS
~ AGM 2016 ~
PRAYER OF POPE FRANCIS
FOR THE JUBILEE YEAR OF MERCY
Lord, Jesus Christ,
You have taught us to be merciful like the
Heavenly Father,
and have told us that whoever sees you sees Him.
Show us your face and we will be saved.
Your loving gaze freed Zacchaeus and Matthew
from being enslaved by money; the adulteress and
Magdalene from seeking happiness only in created
things; made Peter weep after this betrayal,
and assured Paradise to the repentant thief.
You are the visible face of the invisible Father,
of the God who manifests his power above all
by forgiveness and mercy:
Send your Spirit and consecrate every one of us
with its anointing,
so that the Jubilee of Mercy may be a year
of grace from the Lord.
We ask this through the intercession of Mary,
Mother of Mercy,
You who live and reign with the Father and
the Holy Spirit for ever and ever .
Amen
Welcome to
St. Andrew’s Parish
Werribee
105 Greaves Street Nth., PO Box 872,
WERRIBEE VIC 3030
Ph: (03) 9741 4144 Fax (03) 9741 4433
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.standrewswerribee.org.au
Parish Priest:
Assistant Priest:
Assistant Priest:
Fr. Frank Buhagiar
Fr. Benneth Osuagwu
Fr. Shymon Thekkekalathungal
Parish Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday 9am to 4pm
Friday – 9am to 12.30pm and
2pm to 4pm (closed 12.30 – 2pm)
LIST OF CONTENTS
OUR VISION/MISSION STATEMENT
A PARISH SNAPSHOT OF 2015
REPORTS FROM:
St. Andrew’s Parish Core Team
St. Andrew’s Parish Pastoral Team
St. Andrew’s Parish Administration Team
St. Andrew’s Parish Stewardship Program
St. Andrew’s Parish Finances
St. Andrew’s Parish Maintenance Group
St. Andrew’s Parish Fair Committee
THE COMMUNITIES OF: Wyndham Vale
Bethany
Tarneit West
South Central & Werribee South
St. Michael’s, Little River
THE PARISH SCHOOLS: St. Andrew’s Primary School
Bethany Primary School
Corpus Christi Primary School
Our Lady of the Southern Cross Primary School
St. John the Apostle Primary School
MacKillop Catholic Regional College
PARISH GROUPS:
Home Based Religious Education
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)
RCIS (Rite of Christian Initiation of Students)
RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation of Children)
Baptism Preparation Team
Godstart Playgroup
Little Treasures
Children’s Liturgy of the Word
Catholic Women’s League, Wyndham
El Shaddai Charismatic Prayer Group
Divine Mercy Prayer Group
Italian Prayer Group
St. Anthony’s Italian Community
Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Liturgy Planning Team
Altar Society
Music Ministry
Sariling Tinig Filipino Choir
Couples for Christ
Sri Lankan Community and St. Joseph Vaz Choir
South Sudanese Congregation and Women’s Group
Tamil Community and Choir
St. Andrew’s Theatre Company
Peonies Craft Group
Werribee South Rosary Group
Prayer Ministry for Engaged Couples
Engaged Couples Marriage Preparation
Casserole Bank
Young Adults Group, Altar Servers
Knights of the Southern Cross
Tennis Club
St. Andrew’s Play Group
ST. ANDREW’S PARISH ~ A SNAPSHOT 2015
Dear Parishioners and Friends,
The year 2015 has been another great journey for our Parish Community. Two new assistant
Priests joined our Pastoral Team, Fr. Shymon and Fr. Benneth. We opened another great
educational facility at Tarneit West, St. John the Apostle Catholic Primary School from Year
Prep to Year 6, with Mr. Simon Dundon as its Principal. Our Administration and Pastoral
Teams moved into the newly refurbish Parish Office (Old Church Hall) at the end of March.
The Parish House (Presbytery) was refurbished to accommodate the needs of our three
Priests at the end of November.
The ever changing human landscape of our Parish Community is very evident at our Parish
Sunday Liturgies and at our five schools and MacKillop College. Many young families are
still coming to live in Wyndham. During 2015 we have reached above the twenty two
thousands, one hundred and forty one, parishioners young and not so young Catholics who
live in our Parish boundaries.
The reports from our large variety of Parish Groups tell us a very special story. We are trying
our best to meet the many challenges of 21 st century. On the 8th December 2015, Pope
Francis launched the “Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy”. I would like to quote part of his
prayer for the Year of Mercy, “Send Your Spirit and consecrate every one of us with its
anointing, so that the Jubilee of Mercy may be a Year of Grace from the Lord and your
Church with renewed enthusiasm may bring good news to the poor, proclaim liberty to
captives and the oppressed and restore sight to the blind.” As a Parish Community of Faith,
we will take up the challenges to reach out to the marginalized. Our wonderful volunteers are
the life-blood of our Parish: We are big enough to serve and small enough to care.
On behalf of my brother Priest, Fr. Benneth and Fr. Shymon, our Pastoral, Administration,
Leadership Core Team and our School Principals, it is my pleasure to present the Annual
Parish Report Booklet at the AGM 2016 to the Parish Community. With courage, let us go
forward in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Shepherd.
Fr. Frank Buhagiar P.P.
ST ANDREW’S PARISH CORE TEAM REPORT 2015
The St Andrew’s Parish Core Team is made of the priests and a small number of parishioners
with a variety of experiences and knowledge that they are able to bring to the team. Our main
objective is to offer support to the priests in any issues that may affect the parish of St
Andrew’s. We are able to bring feedback from parishioners and parish groups to the Core
Team monthly meetings. We also represent the parish at various pastoral occasions and
parish meetings and events of the wider community.
Our meetings begin with prayer and reflection followed by open discussion about current
issues and forthcoming events in our parish community. Our role is to be active listeners and
a voice for the people of St Andrew’s Parish.
Currently the Parish Core Team comprises of Fr Frank Buhagiar, Fr Benneth Osuagwu, Fr
Shymon Thekkekalathungal, Ann-Marie Palmer, Sashi Jeyarajah, Deanne Horkings, Loretta
Wallace, Ernie Demate, Ignatius Simoes, Edgar Belir and Ralph Melmoth. Recently
Matthew Bensted tendered his resignation and we are hopeful a new member will be
appointed in due course. During the year we are joined by the Pastoral Associates, the Parish
Admin Team and the School Principals at some of our meetings.
Highlights for 2015
 Our evening with George Otero in March
 St Andrews AGM
 Fr Frank’s 15 year anniversary as Parish Priest at St Andrews
 Meeting with Pat Love (Analyst – St Andrew’s Parish Profile)
 The opening and blessing of St Mary of the Cross Chapel at Mackillop College
 The blessing and presentation of the “St Joseph” bell for St Mary of the Cross Chapel
 Supported St Andrew’s Parish Fair
 Supported the production of “Hairspray”
 Supported the renovations/refurbishment of St Andrew’s Church
We look forward to a continuing positive and productive partnership with our various parish
groups and we thank them all for their ongoing commitment and support to the community
of St Andrew’s.
“I see it.
Even more exciting, I see people envisioning a better future,
sharing their vision and working together to make it happen.”
(from - A Prayer for Community Builders)
ST. ANDREW’S PARISH PASTORAL TEAM
As our City of Wyndham keeps expanding, so does our Parish, which in turn
creates an ever increasing demand on the Pastoral Team. We continue to provide
leadership in various community liturgies, community building activities and in
the sacramental life of the Parish.
As Parish Team (Administration and Pastoral) we attended Team Time Away
(Retreat) from 2nd to 4th June 2015 with the topic being “The Good Shepherd”,
facilitated by Fr. Elio Capra.
The Pastoral Team continually works towards accreditation through Personal
Faith Development, Professional Development and Supervision.
Each fortnight, we meet with the Administration Team for prayer and reflection.
Following this time, the Pastoral Team continues to meet to discern and discuss
any particular business and pastoral needs of the Parish.
We hope to continue to answer the demands of our ever increasing Parish
Community through prayer, supporting and empowering each other.
Fr. Frank Buhagiar
Parish Priest
Fr. Benneth Osuagwu
Assistant Priest
Louisa Sullivan, Sherry Vivera
Pastoral Workers
Fr. Shymon Thekkekalathungal
Assistant Priest
Norma Marot, Marthese Temming
Pastoral Associates
THE ADMINISTRATION TEAM
The Administration Team continues to offer strong support to Fr. Frank, Fr. Benneth and Fr.
Shymon, the Pastoral Team, all Parish Groups and Parishioners to assist in the day to day
functioning of the Parish of St. Andrew’s. We endeavour to be a welcoming face and voice
to all who have contact with the Parish. We are continually updating information and
procedures relevant to our Parish of St. Andrew’s and all programs that we offer.
We acknowledge and are grateful for the dedication and hard work of the large number of
volunteers that help keep the Parish functioning. For those we do not meet as often but who
are continuing to work behind the scenes, we say a big thank you for all you have done. We
appreciate your continued commitment. We warmly welcome all new volunteers.
The Administration Team is financed by the Parish of St. Andrew’s through the
Thanksgiving Offering. The Administration Team acknowledges this and is grateful for it.
We hope to continue to answer the many demands of this ever increasing Parish Community
with a friendly smile that makes dealing with all of us here in the Parish Office a pleasure.
Jen, Birgit & Cora
Admin Team
STATISTICS FOR ST. ANDREW’S PARISH, WERRIBEE 2015
Parish Census:
5,496
21,521
Families with
individual members registered
Sacraments 2015:
239
206
227
84
21
Baptisms
First Holy Communions
Confirmations
Funerals
Weddings
5 Nursing Homes:
Uniting AgeWell Manor Lakes Aged Care Facility
BaptCare Wyndham Lodge
Werribee Terrace Aged Care Facility
Mercy Place Wyndham
Manor Court Aged Care Facility
Werribee Mercy Hospital:
incl. Psychiatric Ward, Geriatric Ward, Mother & Baby Hub
Parish Primary Schools:
St. Andrew’s PS
Bethany PS
Corpus Christi PS
Our Lady of the Southern Cross PS
St. John the Apostle PS
Catholic Regional College:
MacKillop Catholic Regional College
Our Christian stewardship is about being a Faith Community working together and complementing
one another’s gifts and abilities. It is the way we use the gifts given to us in order to benefit the
people in our Parish and the wider community. “Stewardship is a joyful act of recognizing God’s
providence.” (St. Mary of the Cross Mackillop)
The primary means of income for our Parish of St. Andrew’s is the Stewardship Program. It is our
responsibility to fund Parish Services and Maintenance of our Buildings adequately.
Parish Services:

Support for young families by our Pastoral Associates and our Baptismal Team
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Visitation of elderly and sick parishioners by Priests, Pastoral Team and Volunteers to
Werribee Mercy Hospital, five Nursing Homes and family homes
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Visits and preparations for funerals by Priests and Pastoral Team
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Sacramental preparation for children by our five Catholic Primary Schools, Home Based
Religious Education Program, RCIC and RCIS Programs
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Spiritual guidance and pastoral care for our students and youth
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Priests are Chaplains at MacKillop Catholic Regional College
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Spiritual guidance, pastoral care and compassion for families in times of sickness,
separation, grief, and support for Engaged Couples
Maintenance of Parish Buildings:
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To support the growth of our Parish and Diocesan Services
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Upkeep of Parish grounds and Parish buildings (five Catholic Primary Schools, two
Churches, Presbytery, Parish Admin Centre, Old Church Hall, newly refurbished Parish
Centre)
Parish Staff
Our priests alone cannot achieve the above. It is achieved through the employment of our Parish
Staff – Administration Staff, Pastoral Associates, Pastoral Workers, a House Keeper and a
Gardener.
Thank you to the families who are up to date and/or have paid their Parish Stewardship
contributions in advance, your commitment is greatly appreciated. For those who are a behind,
now is the time to recommit. Just $5per week from every family would go a long way in
supporting OUR Parish.
Jen Climie
(on behalf of the Finance Committee)
ST. ANDREW’S MAINTENANCE GROUP
Objective:
To Church owned assets assist in the management to maintain, upgrade or reconstruct buildings,
ground areas, etc. (excluding schools) as required and directed by Parish Priest or Parish Office.
Areas of Interest:
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St. Andrew’s Church & grounds
St. Michael’s Church & grounds (Little River)
Penola Community Hub (formerly convent)
St. Andrew’s Tennis Club
Projects Undertaken:
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Reconstruction of St. Andrews Church toilet amenities.
Upgrade & repair bore water pumping & reticulation system to St. Andrew’s church grounds.
Re-slate roof & clean bluestone façade to St. Andrews old church.
Installation of new windows to St. Andrews old church.
Complete internal restoration St. Andrews old church, including electrical, plastering, painting etc.
Installation of new air-conditioning split unit to assistant priest living quarters St. Andrew’s presbytery.
Relocation Sacred Heart statue to front of St. Andrew’s Old Church.
Underpinning & external repairs to St. Andrew’s Church.
Internal painting & repairs to St. Andrew’s Church.
New steel perimeter fencing to St. Andrew’s Tennis Club - Russell St.
Re – carpet St. Andrew’s Church sacristy.
New built – in robes & restoration of existing drawer unit St. Andrew’s Church sacristy.
Installation of padded kneelers to St. Andrew’s Church.
Re-polishing seating St. Andrew’s Church.
Cleaning Sacred Heart statue at St. Andrew’s Church.
Birdproof roof venting & repairs to St. Michael’s Little River.
External & Internal painting to St. Michael’s Little River.
Construction new garages, store areas & Sacristy meeting room St. Andrew’s church.
New chainwire fence to rear St. Andrew’s church.
Upgrade church bell motor equipment St. Andrew’s church.
Creation of memorial garden St. Andrew’s church.
Painting to external of St. Andrew’s presbytery & toilet block.
Install gravel to rear garden area St. Andrew’s church.
Re- Construct St. Andrews School BBQ shelter and re-align boundaries with new corrugated c/bond fencing.
Installation of new air conditioning split system to priest’s 3rd living quarters.
Renovation of bathroom to 2nd priest’s living quarters.
Conversion old convent to Penola Community Hub
Conversion Old Bluestone Church to parish office.
St. Andrews Presbytery renovation to return to Priest’s residence.
Future projects :
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New steel perimeter fencing to St. Andrew’s old church & grounds.
Stormwater drainage system to St. Michael’s Little River
Construct toilet facilities to St. Michael’s Little River
Repairs to leadlight window ventilation hoppers to St. Andrews church
Painting to external of St. Andrew’s church.
Underpinning foundations St. Michael’s Little River.
Current projects :
* St. Andrews Church re. – Carpet & stone tiling altar steps to St. Andrews Church
John Alessi & Associate Maintenance Group
St. Andrew’s Parish Fair 2015
President’s Report
The 2015 Parish Fair was a success. We began the year by electing a new
committee who came with great ideas and different things to try.
The Fair was held on the 21st November 2015 and the weather on the day of the
Fair was lovely and I’m sure helped to attract the crowds and keep them there.
As you will see from Janine’s report the amount of money raised was helped by the
‘pre-fair’ activities and I would like to congratulate and thank the following groups
for their support: Our Lady of the Southern Cross Primary School Parents and
Friends, Corpus Christi Primary School Parents and Friends, The St. Andrew’s Golf
Day and The Multicultural Pizza Night Group.
We had some successful non-parish stalls with people asking to attend again in
2016 and in the main our parish stalls ran well.
As with any event there are always ways to improve and the 2016 Fair Committee
will be able to address the few items that have arisen such as the rides, lack of
volunteers and new signage.
Some of the things we looked at after the 2014 Fair and addressed were: the return
of the Fresh Veggie Stall and purchasing a new fryer for the Hot Chips.
These things were addressed for the 2015 Fair and I think helped to make the day a
success.
I would like to thank our parish priests Fathers Frank, Shymon & Benneth who
attended the day and seemed to have lots of fun.
I am very grateful for the team God put across my path and ever thankful that
they took on roles on the Executive Committee: Janine & Ciaran Donohoe,
Danielle Glaubitz, Birgit Minness, Bernie Hogan, Belinda Sullivan and Linda Mc
Dougall.
I would like to thank the general members for their support and input, namely Ben
Minness, Adrian Rigato, Richard Lilly and Kristen Powell.
A big thanks goes to Jen Climie and Gerald Fastuca for all their hard work and
excellent running of the Car Raffle.
I would also like to thank our Parish school principals and their teams, Marlene
Monahan, Jennifer Poon, Linda Roynic and Michael Gavaghan and Rory Kennedy.
I am also grateful to the St. Andrew’s Parish Office staff as I realise that the Fair and
all it involves disrupts their routines as well.
On March 9th 2016 the committee proudly presented a cheque to the value of
$25,776.77 to the Parish Finance Officer, Jen Climie in Fr. Franks absence, and to
the Parish of St. Andrew’s.
Thank you all for your continuing support.
Lou Sullivan,
St. Andrew’s Fair President 2015
St Andrew's Fair Incorporated
2015 Final Fair Results
Fair AGM 09-March-2016
Stalls
Afternoon Tea
BBQ / Chips
Bethany Housewares / Christmas Cake Raffle
Books
Cakes
Car Raffle Launch
Chocolate Toss
Christmas Hamper Raffle
Corpus Christi P&F Fundraiser
Donations / Sponsorships
Donuts
Drinks
Espresso
External Stalls
Fairy Floss
Fresh Produce
Golf Day Sponsorship
OLSC P&F Fundraiser
Outside Stall Raffle
Photo Booth
Pizza Night
Plants
Pony Rides
Rides
Showbags
Snow Cones and Popcorn
Spinning Wheel
St Andrew's P&F
St Andrew's Tennis Club
Tattoos
Young Adults Group / Car Wash Fundraiser
Total Stalls
2015 Fair
814.70
3,543.93
999.70
328.35
1,477.05
258.00
866.25
420.15
600.00
1,002.00
1,202.10
1,142.65
1,699.70
2,100.00
741.40
1,145.55
1,500.00
1,000.00
109.00
324.05
2,162.50
2,511.05
150.00
1,372.00
696.85
1,092.90
2,000.00
171.10
442.20
229.10
500.00
32,602.28
Less Expenses
Administration
General Fair Expenses
Hire Plant and Equipment
Total Expenses
2015 Fair
1,016.56
4,246.95
1,562.00
6,825.51
Net Final Income
25,776.77
Car Raffle
Car Raffle Income
2015 Fair
53,494.00
Car Raffle Expenses
1st Prize - Ballan Holden (car purchase)
2nd Prize - Nespresso Coffee Machine
3rd Prize - Werribee Car Wash
4th Prize - All Green Nursery
5th Prize - Mansion Hotel & Spa
Booksellers Prize - Good Guys
Postage/Permit/Newspaper Ad Results
Total Expenses
Net Final Profit for Car Raffle
2015 Fair
20,511.52
549.00
Donated
200.00
300.00
500.00
992.40
23,052.92
30,441.08
St Andrew's Fair Inc - Assets
Books
Chip Fryer
Computer / Laptop
Printer
Raffle Barrel
Signs
Software & Accessories
Spinning Wheel & Prize Stand
Stationery
Storage Containers
Total Assets
Approx. Value
250.00
1,650.00
496.00
50.00
150.00
1,000.00
466.00
350.00
200.00
200.00
4,812.00
WYNDHAM VALE COMMUNITY
2015-2016 AGM Report
We would like to acknowledge the people of the Wathaurong tribe who are the
traditional custodians of the land we know as Wyndham Vale. We continue to
enjoy the fruits of their guardianship and we thank them for that.
The area is rapidly growing and the majority of my time is spent visiting families
preparing for the baptism of a child or children. I also spend some time visiting
parishioners for companionship or to minister communion.
We continued our weekly scripture reflection at Our Lady of the Southern Cross
Primary School and continue to celebrate the Community Mass, with fellowship, on
the first Sunday of the month. Our community masses have become great
occasions for socialising after mass, as well as spending time together in worship.
We have had a few young people come on board to be lectors, which is fantastic!
We also have Children’s Liturgy of the Word at the masses where the children go
out before the readings with a leader and look at the Gospel at their level to gain
a better understanding of what it is about.
I would love for you to contact me if you would like to be involved in the
community masses whether reading, welcoming people as they arrive, handing
out Take Away Sheets, helping with Children’s Liturgy etc.
The Leadership Group is continuing (see tabled report) and we are trying to come
up with innovative ways to support the community. One of the outcomes was to
create a Wyndham Vale Catholic Community newsletter called Branches. If you
would like to receive a copy via email or ‘snail’ mail please contact me at the
Parish Office, [email protected] or 9741 4144.
Whether you are new or old to the Wyndham Vale area or know of anyone who
needs support in any way, please contact me through the Parish Office, as I would
love to meet and support as many people as I can.
Lou Sullivan
Pastoral Worker, Wyndham Vale Community
WYNDHAM VALE CATHOLIC COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP GROUP REPORT
Chairman: Nimal Pandithakoralege
Minute taker: Caroline Simoes
Pastoral contact: Lou Sullivan
School Liaison: Sandy Henderson
Newsletter contact: Sandy Henderson
Financial: Peter Walters
Youth contact: James Glaubitz
Community Mass contact: Val McAndrews
General Members: Sarah Kelly, Tess Mijares
We would like to acknowledge the people of the Wathaurong tribe who are the
traditional custodians of the land we know as Wyndham Vale. We continue to
enjoy the fruits of their guardianship and we thank them for that.
During the past year the Wyndham Vale Catholic Community Leadership Group
has seen some changes with the membership of the group.
The focus of this Leadership Group is to support the existing families and the inflow
of new residents to feel a part of the Wyndham Vale Catholic community and to
feel linked with the Parish community of St. Andrew’s.
We would like to thank Fathers Frank, Shymon and Benneth for all their support and
for celebrating our Community Masses.
The group meets once a month at OLSC School to discuss relevant community and
spiritual matters for the Wyndham Vale area. The various coordinators update the
team with their reports. Coinciding with the Community masses we produce a
community newsletter called Branches and we acknowledge the efforts and
commitment of Sandy in updating the newsletter for us. Everyone is encouraged to
send in articles to Sandy. If copies are required these can be sent our
electronically, please email Sandy on [email protected]
The Community Mass is celebrated by one of the St. Andrews Parish team priests
and is held on the first Sunday of every month (excluding school holidays). We
thank and appreciate OLSC School for allowing us to use the hall for this purpose
and their continued support. The numbers of families coming to the Community
Masses have grown. As with any upcoming community we could always do with
more willing pairs of hands to assist in the children’s ministry, reading and choir.
Father’s Day was also celebrated with great success after the Community Mass.
There was a very good gathering and everyone enjoyed sizzling sausages from the
BBQ.
We had great fun at our Minutia Night (Trivia) in August. The entrance fee was a
gold coin donation and we had prizes of movie tickets, bottles of wine and booby
prizes for the losing team. The night was put together by Peter Walters and MC’d
with lots of fun and laughter by James Glaubitz. All those in attendance had
wonderful time.
An ongoing effort is to get the youth involved in activities in the parish community;
encouraging the young children & youth to be involved in our gathering events
and how they can be drawn to attend and participate in Mass. Any ideas are
appreciated!
BETHANY GATHERING GROUP
The Bethany Gathering Group meets once a month and its
members are group leaders in the Bethany Community. The
leaders discuss happenings and activities of their respective
groups.
The evening begins with a prayer and reflection followed by a cuppa and chat. Whilst each
monthly meeting is keenly anticipated by the group members, there are highlights through
the year. As in the last few years, a highlight for the group for 2015 was the Trivia Night and
the theme for this year was Pop Stars. The Trivia Night is always a fun evening with games,
competitions, raffles and prizes for best dressed. A huge appreciation goes out to Josie King,
Mary Xuereb and Marthese Temming who are the main organisers of this event. We also
thank all the sponsors and participants for their regular and untiring support. A special thank
you goes to Peter Walters who stepped in the place of the regular MC Sam Ioppolo, who was
unable to MC the night in 2015.
Our other highlight for the year is the preparation of the Christmas Gifts for the needy
families in our community. The gifts are funded through the Gathering Group’s fundraising
activities, mainly from funds raised on the Trivia Night that is held in September. In 2015,
the gifts were a combination of a Christmas Sweet item together with a Gift Voucher.
Preparing the Christmas Gifts is a great and enjoyable meeting, as all the leaders use their
talents to package the festive items with the efficiency of a professional group whilst
enjoying their time together.
We thank Marthese Temming (Pastoral Contact); Birgit Minness (Meetings Host and
Supporter and Co-Chairperson); Josee King (Gathering Community Newsletter); Tom Shone
(Men’s Group, assisted by Ben Minness); Mary Rayner (Finances); Ash Fitzgerald and
Natasha D’Cunha (Bethany Primary School Representatives).
Anna Manche, Chairperson
BETHANY COMMUNITY JEWEL TEAM
There are many who help with the planning, setting up and organisation of the Bethany
Community Mass which is held on the 2nd Sunday of each month (except during school
holidays). The Mass is held in the Bethany School Hall at 10.00am. The Bethany
Community Children’s Choir regularly sings at our Masses. Jim Lazardo was the musician
for some of the Masses. We appreciate their commitment and enthusiasm, drawing the
community into prayerful song. Leah Arida, Judy Cammayo and Helen Emmanuel help in
the organisation of the choir and its involvement with the Community Masses.
Mary Rayner, Josee King and helpers organise supper and a cuppa after Mass in a
welcoming friendly environment. Many parishioners help put away the chairs and backdrop.
In May, on Mother’s Day, the children handed prayers and chocolates to the mothers who
attended the Community Mass.
The last Mass of the year was a Christmas Mass, where the children sang and acted out the
Christmas Story. Jesse Payet was the musician for that Mass and taught the children “Joyful,
Joyful” from Sister Act. Santa arrived after Mass with treats for the children. Attendance at
Community Masses varies from 60 to 120 people, up to 200 for our Christmas Mass.
We thank all those who have helped to make our Liturgy very special, especially Fr. Frank,
Fr. Benneth Osuagw and Fr. Shymon Thekkekalathungal
Marthese Temming
Pastoral Associate
BETHANY MEN’S GROUP
The Men's Group was started many years ago when there was a
stereotypical perception that the men in the community went to work, and
when they got home their time was taken up with needs of the home and
family. There was little opportunity for men to unwind socially with other
men. Sure there are some that get to the footy or who have a social outlet,
but generally we were going from the pressures of work to those of home
via means of a stressful commute. Many women, and again this is a generalised,
stereotypical view that certainly doesn't apply to everyone, had the opportunity to interact
with other mums at school pick-ups or through various other groups that are available.
I feel like I’ve walked bare-footed over hot coals and no doubt been badly burnt on the way
with that pre-amble, but broadly, that was the basis for the creation of a Men’s Group.
Despite popular rumours, we aren't out there partying and drinking and talking footy and
telling bawdy jokes until all hours. We’re just guys, relating socially with other guys. On
the way, we’re making friends and helping each other whilst building a sense of community
and mutual support.
I'd better explain what we actually do. Once a month we meet socially for a meal at a variety
of venues around the Werribee area. We'll have a meal and maybe a drink and talk about
whatever we want to talk about. Even a late night would have us home by 9.30pm.
Invariably we end up feeling better for ourselves and ready to face the rigours of work and
home with refreshing confidence. It doesn't matter that we might have heard the same stories
a dozen times, we are just there for each other’s company. I never cease to be amazed at the
variety of topics that we are variously knowledgeable in. I’ll always learn something, and
occasionally it might actually be true! There are no rules and no obligations, except that you
pay your own way and for that reason we try to go to venues where there are a range of
options available to cater to all budgets. I like to think we welcome everyone willingly into
the group.
We try to hold our gatherings on the third Wednesday of each month, although I have moved
that around a few times to try to help people to get along. Unfortunately though a change of
night often inconveniences more than it helps. We always gather from 7pm and order our
meals at 7.30pm. We learnt long ago, that waiting until everyone arrived before we ordered
invariably resulted in us waiting for someone who had something come up that prevented
them from coming, causing us to get very hungry waiting!
Initially the group was started to give the men in the Bethany community a social outlet, but
we’ve never really adhered to any boundaries. If you want to come along, and you an adult
male, then I’m sure we’ll make you welcome. The hardest thing to do is to come for the first
time.
I can't speak for others who come along, but I can attest that after an outing I certainly feel
empowered to face the rigours (and joy) of work and home again. It would leave a hole in
my month if I wasn't able to get along. I'm grateful to my family in encouraging me to get
out, as otherwise, I'd probably just spend the evening exhausted and falling asleep in front of
the TV, watching something that doesn't even interest me...
As co-ordinator of the group, it makes my life a lot easier to communicate by email. In the
early days, I used to print flyers and do targeted letter drops each month all over Werribee to
those in the group. Then I graduated up the technology scale and started phoning people, but
making a lot of calls each month and then having a 5 minute chat each time took too long.
So, like it or not, we’re now an email organised group.
If you are interested in coming along, then please contact me via
[email protected] or care of the Parish Office.
Ben Minness
Men’s Group Co-ordinator
BETHANY COMMUNITY FINANCE REPORT
Our 2015 financial year was very successful and we managed to support some very needy
families in our community.
Our major fund raiser, the Trivia Night which was held in August again, was a wonderful
success and raised $1301.10. These funds and other balance in our account helped us to
purchase eighteen $80 dollar Gift Vouchers which were wrapped on top of beautiful biscuit
tins and delivered to eighteen families in the community.
The current balance of our account to date is $550.42.
On behalf of the Gathering Group, we would like to thank the community for their continued
support of the Trivia Night because without their attendance we would not be able to help
our needy families.
Mary Rayner
Finance
BETHANY GATHERING LETTER
The Gathering Letter is e-mailed to the parishioners in the Bethany Community once a
month. New families are added on to the email address as they are made known to us. The
Gathering Letter reminds people of the Community Masses and informs them on the
activities and groups within the Community. It also gives broader information on the
happenings within the Parish of St. Andrew’s. We thank Jenni Bravington for her continued
support in the collation of material, layout and distribution of the Gathering Letter.
ST. ANDREW’S TRIVIA NIGHT
We thank Peter Walters for stepping in to MC the night. It was a wonderful evening with
much fun and laughter. The theme was “Pop Stars” with many dressing up, making it a
colourful evening. Thanks to all who so generously give of their time throughout the year
and on the night itself. Special thanks to Sam Ioppolo, Mary Xuereb and Josee King.
$1,301.00 was raised on the night.
Marthese Temming
Pastoral Associate
ST. JOHN THE APOSTLE COMMUNITY, TARNEIT WEST
St. John the Apostle Community is a rapidly growing community with many young
families moving into the area, many of whom are seeking Baptism for their children. Each
family receives a visit upon enquiry, welcoming them into the Parish community and
informing them of the Parish activities.
Community Masses are held the fourth Saturday of each month (except School holidays) in
the Community area at the front of St. John the Apostle Primary School. The Community
Masses are great occasions for welcoming families preparing for Baptism and creating an
opportunity for the community to know one another.
We thank the school community who play an active part at these Masses. We are also very
grateful to all who have attended, served and helped in preparing to make these Community
Masses constantly an enriching experience. We thank Vina and AJ Angeles who helped in
the preparation of these Masses, the musicians AJ Angeles and Daniel Bernardo and the
singers who shared their ministry with us during the masses.
St. John the Apostle Playgroup meets each Tuesday morning from 10.00am to 11.30am in
the portables at the back of the St. John the Apostle Primary School, entrance is through the
front of the school. We have activities/craft, story time, music/song, prayer and morning tea
at our gatherings. We also celebrate Birthdays. In 2015 we had a visit from Wyndham
Council informing us on “Hygiene for Children’s Teeth”. Five of the children who atteneded
the Playgroup from the start, have moved on to School at the conclusion of the year. This is a
friendly group which warmly welcomes new members.
Marthese Temming
Pastoral Associate
Tarneit West
WERRIBEE SOUTH/WERRIBEE CENTRAL COMMUNITY
I take this opportunity to thank each and every one who welcomed me with smiles, open
arms and hugs and allowed me to serve you and the community.
Overview:

The leadership group for the Community is formed to better understand and
serve this area and we gladly welcome any suggestions or opinions in this matter.
Community Mass:
 We continue to celebrate the Community Mass at the Corpus Christi Primary School
hall on the third Sunday of the month at 10 am excluding school holidays.
 A children’s liturgy of the Word is held during the Mass, where the children gather
together at a different place to share the Gospel reflection by hearing from the
Leader in a way they understand and have their own discussion about the Gospel.
 After the Mass everyone is invited to stay for a cuppa to get to know each other. Our
community masses have become wonderful opportunities in getting to know each
other after mass and also spending time together in worship.
 Community Masses are a special time to welcome children and their parents who are
presenting for baptism at St. Andrews Parish.
Family Visits:
 Families who are presenting a child for Baptism are visited by a member of the
Pastoral team before the Baptism takes place. This is a good way to get to know the
family on a personal level and make them feel welcome, also to answer queries, or just
to set a person’s mind at ease.
 We can arrange visits if you are in need to share your pain or grievance or if you feel
sick or lonely
Little Kids Play Group:
 We have a Corpus Christi Little Kids playgroup on every Wednesday, 9.00am to
10am at the school portables.
 It is a great meeting point for the parents who have younger children with their
siblings at the school and a place to meet new families in the community.
Our Gratitude:
Finally I would like to thank you all—for your faithfulness, support, encouragement
and hard work. It is a joy being part of this community and I look forward very much to the
year ahead, experiencing the faith journey with you, celebrating and worshipping as we step
up in faith, trusting always in the gracious God of all.
Sherry Vivera
Pastoral Worker
ST. MICHAEL’S, LITTLE RIVER
The Catholic Community in Little River meets on a monthly basis, usually on the
4th Sunday of the month to celebrate mass. We share and enjoy a cuppa after
mass.
For any enquires please call the Parish Office or contact Maryanne Pernice on
0419 539 055.
ST. ANDREW’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL
2015 SCHOOL YEAR ANNUAL REPORT
2015 School Year in Review
Education In Faith
The school continues to participate in the St Andrew’s Parish liturgical life through weekly
class masses, Sacramental celebrations and Feast day masses. Fr Elio Capra was engaged to
facilitate family faith nights for the sacraments of Reconciliation, Eucharist & Confirmation.
A hermeneutical approach to Religious Education continued through the use of termly image
and scripture. Glenn Mugavin, the Religious Education leader was available to work with
teachers during collaborative planning to assist teachers maintain a high quality RE program
and approach.
Prayer is an important feature of the faith life of the school, with assemblies, staff meetings
and other gatherings beginning with prayer and classes expected to begin and end each
school day with prayer. Anne Marie Palmer continued in her role as Parish Liaison and
Liturgy Co-ordinator, also a position of leadership to continue to maintain the school’s
strong links to the parish.
Learning & Teaching
Marie Westgarth was appointed to the position of Learning & Teaching Leader with
responsibilities for working with the leadership team to assist teachers to develop in their
ability to deliver an effective and contemporary approach to learning and teaching. Marie
was also the Collaborative Impact coach for the Visible Learning Plus Collaborative Impact
project. This is a three year project centred on the research of John Hattie.
The development of the CAFÉ model across the school continued. The CAFE model is an
approach to teaching reading based on the skills of Comprehension, Accuracy, Fluency and
Extending Vocabulary. This approach gives students greater responsibility for their learning,
especially in choosing appropriate and interest based reading material.
A play based learning approach was introduced at the Foundation and Grade One level of the
school. This approach is based on the work of Kathy Walker and is focussed on engagement
of students through using their interests combined with the intended curriculum to allow
children to use their curiosity and creativity in pursuing small investigations. The
development of Social and Emotional competencies is also very important during this time.
Student Wellbeing
Julia Cascone assumed responsibility for Student Wellbeing as well as teaching Creative
Arts. It was the intention of the school to use Creative Arts as a vehicle to help students
explore social emotional competencies. During this year our senior students created a video
on Cyberbullying and entered into the Catholic Education Student Wellbeing festival.
Bounce Back remains our base resource for Social and Emotional learning within the
curriculum.
The school continued to engage a Catholic Care counsellor one day a week as well as
beginning a new partnership with On Psych, a counselling program for students and families,
half a day per week.
Two new initiatives were trialled. The first was the Friendly Meeting place, a passive play
area established in the library for students who for numerous reasons find the yard too hard
to participate in. The other was a transition program for kinder to school and involve the
grade Four students buddying with the new students and their families to be a softer
introduction.
School Community
2015 saw St Andrew’s, with Corpus Christi, complete their association with the Brimbank
Family Engagement Cluster that included St Teresa’s, Albion, Mother of God, Ardeer and
Our Lady’s, Sunshine cluster to begin a new Werribee Family School Partnership cluster
involving the five St Andrew’s primary schools. To help launch this new initiative the
emerging cluster was fortunate to be handed an opportunity to travel to Santa Fe, USA to
work with Dr George Otero in his own surrounds. The cluster visited schools, community
and cultural organisations to see the work of Family Engagement in action. Whole school
learning expos began, coffee mornings and Jingle and Mingle, our Christmas get together all
emerged through this work. Our grade two teachers participated in Family Centred
Classrooms professional learning.
The School Advisory Board, chaired by Tom Rickard, continued to provide advice for new
school program and policies. The Board had input into the new Social Media policy and
school community initiatives.
The Parents & Friends continued to support the school and after a successful year of
fundraising and social events were able to provided $12,000 to the school.
2016 Priorities
● School Improvement External Review and VRQA Audit
● Further strengthen our reading approach through the implementation of the CAFÉ
model
● 3 year involvement in Visible Learning plus Collaborative Learning project
● CEM Student Wellbeing Strategy - Connect, Grow, Learn, Flourish
● Restorative Practice for Better Relationships
● Master Planning
● Santa Fe Study Tour, Better Together 2
Michael Gavaghan
PRINCIPAL
Bethany Catholic Primary School
Werribee North
Bethany Catholic Primary School commenced in 1995 with 163 students and 104 families.
These pioneer families were extraordinary people. Despite very humble beginnings with just 9 relocatable
classrooms on a paddock they trustingly embraced a dream.
They dreamed of a school that should reinvent itself every day. A school that would be full of surprises –
where relationship would be at the heart of any meaningful learning experience. A school connected to the
world. A school that would seek to enrich the world and be enriched by it.
A school where the adults and the students would co-exist in an atmosphere of mutual respect. A place
where students would feel safe but at the same time a place of adventure guided by the invitation “take care
but take risks”.
It was to be a school where learning would be honoured – where we would promote rigour in the classroom
and high levels of academic achievement – a school where we would recognise that everyone has different
abilities and that few things are more degrading to the human spirit than constant failure. There was a
commitment to success for all.
Fast forward twenty-one years, it is evident that parents, teachers and students have been faithful stewards of
this dream.
After many years of working in relocatable classrooms, Bethany now has permanent, purpose built facilities
that reflect a contemporary and relevant approach to education.
The school aspires to a culture, where Hospitality, Hope, Heart and Healing are at the centre of our
conversations and interactions. It is a school where all are committed to our guiding vision of ‘Creating
authentic relationships for successful living within a Catholic tradition’.
This culture of Hospitality, Hope, Heart and Healing guides our learning, our interaction with the
community and most importantly it frames the expectation that all of us will grow towards our potential
when given the right amount of time, support and encouragement.
Bethany is a place where individual and team effort is valued. A culture of ambition and achievement
enables all of us; parents, teachers and students to go beyond what we thought was possible and achieve far
greater academic, social and emotional outcomes.
The school works with a distributed model of Leadership. Succession planning allows for the school to
work in a dynamic way that ensures consistency in management, pedagogy and practice.
Today the school has 600 students in four specific Learning Centres. Each Learning Centre is managed
internally by Directors who are members of the School Leadership Team.
The Exploration Centre caters for the children at Foundation stage. The year 1/2 students learn in the
Discovery Centre. The Bridging Centre and the Leadership Centre are learning spaces for students in year
3/4 and year 5/6.
EXPLORATION
CENTRE
We explore with
Hope
DISCOVERY
CENTRE
We discover with
Heart
BRIDGING
CENTRE
We bridge with
Hospitality
LEADERSHIP
CENTRE
Strong leaders work to
Heal our World
The particular management, teaching and learning structures in each Centre are designed to meet social,
emotional and cognitive needs of the students at their stage of development.
Students are supported within Centres, via direct and scaffolded instruction to build skills, attitudes and
values to enable strong personal and social capability.
We endeavour to instil in all children a sense of achievement, ambition, self-efficacy and resilience. It is
vital that students develop lifelong skills that enable them to become healthy, optimistic citizens who are
able to actively contribute to their community of Wyndham and the wider world.
At Bethany Catholic Primary School, we are ever mindful of the vital importance of excellent teaching.
Bethany will only ever “be as good as those who transform buildings into imaginative learning spaces which
open students’ hearts and minds to the world around them and prepare them to take their place in that
world”.
(Quote by Margery Evans, CEO of AITSL, 24th April, 2013)
Parish Partnership
 Sacramental Preparation
 Participation in Bethany Community Masses
 Participation in the Parish Fair
 Support of Bethany Faith Community initiatives
Community Partnership
In 2015 we celebrated strong partnerships with our parents, our Parish and its various schools, as well as our
shire and the wider world.
Parent Partnership
 Parent / Teacher Education Group
 Sub-Committee Groups:
 Hospitality
 Service
 Fundraising
 Parent Reading Tutor Group
 Parent School Assembly participation
 Parent participation with classroom activities when required:
 Excursions
 Special Projects
Civic Partnership
 Travel Smart Project
 Community Sport Partnership
 Involvement in Wyndham Building Blocks
 Close links with Quantin Binnah Community Centre
Global Partnerships
 Links with Reggio Emilia (Italy)
 Links with Harvard University (U.S.A.)
 Links with Stephen Hepple (London)
 Links with Dr. Loretta Giorcelli (International Educator)
 Links with Dr. Vikki Graf
It is our belief that “it takes a village to raise a child”.
Corpus Christi Primary School Werribee
2015
2015 Highlights
30th Anniversary Celebrations and Memorial BBQ
This year we celebrated 30 years as a Faith Community in the Parish of St Andrew’s.
We celebrated in various ways throughout the year which culminated in a special liturgy at our Community
Mass on Sunday 18th October.
Mass was followed by a special Blessing of a new BBQ built in memory of Mr John Glaubitz,
a much loved and respected member of our community who was a member of staff at Corpus Christi.
Sadly John passed away in December 2013.
John was a Teacher, Mentor and Friend of the Corpus Christi community for 23 years, from our inception in
1985 to 2008. John’s legacy of community building, welcome
and working in partnership is symbolised in the BBQ.
At the conclusion of the formal part of the day, the Annual Corpus Christi Arts Show Display and School
Open Day began with family fun including a giant slide, games
and Family Picnic / BBQ
Many past and present family members and friends attended and viewed how the school has
grown and developed over 30 years.
Education in Faith
This year as a Parish we organised special masses for our children who received their First Eucharist. This
was one way to accommodate the large numbers who attend these special masses. On Sunday 16 th August
our Grade 4 students celebrated First Communion at two very beautiful, reverent and meaningful
celebrations led by Fr Frank and Fr Benneth. After consultation and evaluation we determined as a Parish to
celebrate this sacrament in the same way in 2016.
Master Plan Development
This year we completed a Master Plan to inform our future development as a school for the benefit of every
child and family enrolled at Corpus Christi Catholic Primary School. We based our Master Plan on sound
educational needs and goals. These include a strong emphasis on the principles that support collaboration
and communication between all members of the community, in order to assist in student learning.
A committee consisting of Fr Frank, staff and parents worked through a Master Plan Development process
with our Architects – Baldasso and Cortese. All members contributed in a significant way to the final
outcome. We were able to develop a plan that ensured input from all stakeholders in our school and we
believe responds to the future education needs of all in the community of Corpus Christi. Applications for
Capital development from both Australian and Victorian sources have been made. Potential building projects
can come to fruition as early as the end of 2016 if successful.
Safe and Sustainable Travel to School Project
This year we continued to work with Wyndham Council to increase our Active and Safe Travel to School.
The new crossing on Wedge Street occurred as a result of much work in this area. The data we collected
weekly of walkers and riders to school had shown an increase of approximately 5% since our program began
in 2014. This was a pleasing result and work in this area will continue even though our official ‘funded
program’ with council has finished. We are currently determining the best location for additional bike and
scooter racks as we anticipate a growth in the number of students riding to school as a result of the program.
Family-School-Community Partnerships and Community Conversations
We are recognising as a global community that we alone as a school cannot educate a child. 40 years of
research is clearly telling us how important partnerships in the educative process are for each child’s
success. We need to be working together to support children’s learning and when we work together in
partnership and family engagement is increased, learning outcomes for students will improve. At Corpus
Christi we are constantly exploring ways to improve family engagement in the learning of their children for
this year and into the future. Some actions to date include:





Membership of a Family School Partnership Cluster
Links to home in Planning documents and overviews sent home each term
Newsletter focus on Learning as a school and within each unit
Review of ‘Home Learning’ Policy
Establishment of a new Werribee Parish Cluster in 2016
As part of our work in this area we invited Mr George Otero to support us by leading a day with staff,
parents and students with this focus in mind. We had about 20 parents meet with George for a conversation
on Wednesday 29th July. The basic premises of his work include the following:
Partnerships
Every child matters. We know parents are the first and most important educators of their child. As teachers,
it is vital we work together with parents, carers and families to improve student wellbeing and academic
achievement. We want to be partners with parents / carers.
Relationships
Throughout his work, Dr George Otero emphasises that relationships are the key to educational success. By
building relationships, we connect with each other and develop our sense of community and belonging.
When we build relationships, there is mutual trust and understanding. We want to build a relationship with
parents /carers.
Communication
To develop positive relationships, we need effective communication. George helps us to explore how we
communicate and what parents want from school communication. We want to communicate better with
parents / carers.
Santa Fe Study Tour
Three staff from Corpus Christi attended a study tour during the Term 3 holidays to Santa Fe New Mexico.
We were part of a group of 18 with representatives from our Parish, Primary schools and MacKillop
College. Our tour was titled “The Better Together Study Tour”.
The Better Together Study Tour provided us with a number of significant opportunities, including:
* Increasing our understanding of school community development principles and
* Developing a deeper understanding of the link between school community, student wellbeing, learning and
teaching and education in faith spheres of schooling.
The tour also provided an opportunity to build positive relationships between the parish and schools in the
St. Andrew’s parish. It was an exciting opportunity and our learnings and experiences will certainly impact
our work into the future.
St Andrew’s Parish Cluster
In 2014 a Cluster was formed with five schools in the Brimbank / Werribee Area, including St Andrew’s and
Corpus Christi, with a view to creating a new “Werribee Cluster”. In 2016 our new St Andrew’s Parish
Cluster will be formed consisting of the 5 Parish Primary Schools within the parish of St Andrew’s and a
convenor will be employed to facilitate the work in the area of Family/School/Community partnerships and
connection. Through our cluster we will look for ways to authentically engage with families and the broader
community in substantial ways that positively impact on learning outcomes for all children.
SCHOOL PRAYER
This year we completed our School Prayer and it will be ‘launched’ in a special celebration at the beginning
of 2016. The work of Mrs Viv Adamko, our Religious Education Leader and the members of our RE team at
Corpus Christi need to be acknowledged and thanked for their wonderful leadership and dedication to the
nurturing and development of our school community as a Faith Community and for their role in the
development of this prayer.
We work together as a faith community to bring quality Catholic education to all in our care.
Linda Roynic
Principal
OUR LADY OF THE SOUTHERN CROSS
CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL
Current enrolments : 399
Prep : 65
Year 6 : 38
Educational Priorities
Last year we are participated in our school review process with the support of the Catholic
Education Office. Parents, staff and students are involved in reflection and planning
processes with a view to developing our 2016 – 2020 School Development Plan.
The educational priorities for 2015 have been
 Improving the numeracy engagement and outcomes for our students
 Working with our Schools Improving Schools partnership of St Francis Tarneit, St
Martin’s Laverton and St Peter’s Sunshine SW on Maths teaching with Michael Ymer
 Creating further links with our parent community and the local community
 Building parent partnership in the learning processes for their children
 Establishing social justice links in the parish and community as a faith outreach
 Completing the Catholic Identity reflective inquiry
 Building leadership capacity with both staff and students
Our 2016 focus areas are :

Parent involvement in the School Wide Positive Behaviours program that supports
our students to build strong, positive relationships between their peers.

The Schools Improving Schools group are working with Mathematics expert Michael
Ymer. This process includes the 4 schools coming together for a Professional
Development Day on 21st May, Michael working in schools with staff and twilight
workshops for year level cohorts of teachers from each of the schools. Michael is also
working intensively with or Principals, Learning and Teaching leaders and Maths
Leaders. We plan to continue this process in to 2016.
 Continuing the 5 Parish Primary schools partnership in the professional study tour
with George Otera from New Mexico.. The focus of this tour is reflected in the
mission of the Centre for Relational Learning “Our mission is to encourage and support, people, communities and schools to attend
to their relationships as the best way to ensure the educational success of every child.”
This process has been consolidated with the creation of the Werribee Catholic schools
Hub and the addition of our Hub co-ordinator across the 5 schools.
 Our Leadership team is working with a consultant to further develop our coaching
skills and the processes with which we support staff professional learning. Building on
the work completed in 2015.

Learning walks with staff and parents, conversation circles around particular areas of
curriculum focus and workshops with visiting experts for our parents keep everyone
informed.

Staff and students are working with the Apple Training Team, and the Google
community to enhance our ICT skills and provide challenging and interconnected
learning opportunities for staff and students.
 We are continuing our involvement as a member of the Wyndham Schools
Community Hub working with the Smith Family, Manor Lakes P-12 College and
Wyndham Park Primary to build community connections and involvement. Currently
we have projects in place with the ‘Kids Thrive’ - working with our Year 5/6 students.
The focus being on social justice and the project sponsorship and implementation of 5
student led projects.
We are also working with ‘Song Room’ and the Year 3 and 4 students are being
mentored by a performing artist.
We have placed an application for a Victorian Government grant to construct our 4 th and
final learning centre. We are awaiting news of this grant.
We continue to build our relationship with the Aged Care Centre through student
involvement in liturgies, Mother’s and Father’s Day visits with gifts, singing and activity
sessions with the residents. Both students and residents look forward to these occasions.
Our Parents and Friends group and their many support parents have continued to help us
grow as community by supporting families in need, providing social opportunities and
working tirelessly for the benefit of our community.
We are very proud of our Social Justice Team and Our Student Representative Council who
initiate opportunities for our students and families to show their support of those less
fortunate through collections of food and clothing, fundraising and awareness raising - .eg.
our sleep over at school for the homeless.
We have a fantastic school community that endeavours to involve itself in all aspects of
school, parish and wider community life and we hope our continuing journey together will
build on this strength.
Jennifer Poon (Principal)
ST. JOHN THE APOSTLE PRIMARY SCHOOL
TARNEIT WEST
St John the Apostle Catholic Primary School, Tarneit West officially commenced
operation as the fifth primary school of St Andrew’s Parish on Friday, 30 th January 2015.
Serving the faith community of Tarneit within the boundaries of Tarneit Rd, Sayers Rd,
Boundary Rd and the Werribee River, it began with enrolments of 105 students.
The inaugural staff included the following:
Mr. Simon Dundon (Principal)
Mrs. Rosalie Baldwin (Deputy Principal & REL)
Mrs. Janet Belir (Administration Officer)
Mrs. Angela Anderson (Year 4/5/6 Teacher)
Mrs. Leah Jozeljic (Year 2/3 Teacher)
Ms. Kathleen Warr (Year 1 Teacher)
Mrs. Jenny Fenech (Year Prep Teacher)
Miss Alisha Keogh (Year Prep Teacher)
Mrs. Annette Palma (Part Time Teacher)
Mrs. Louise White (Part Time Specialist Phys Ed Teacher)
Mrs. Alison Holmes (Part Time Learner Support Officer)
Mr. Toto Penaflor (Facilities Manager)
The finalised stage 1 building comprised two
open planned learning centres linked by a
collaborative learning space, a community space and
an administration area at the front entrance. The land
was segmented using temporary fencing enabling the
area used in the stage one development to be fully
landscaped ready for students to use from day one.
School families quickly embraced the positive
culture of the school and attended working bees to
maintain the building both inside and out. The
students also quickly made connections with their new
classmates and teachers and identified the following
school highlights during the inaugural year.




Official School Opening & Blessing
Whole School Excursion – Lancefield, Victoria.
Sacramental Celebrations
School Sleepover
Data gained via our School Improvement Surveys indicates that parents, students and
teachers all hold St John the Apostle Catholic Primary School in very high regard with
extremely high scores in the areas of School Community, Leadership & Management,
Education in Faith, Learning & Teaching and Student Wellbeing.
The community of St John the Apostle would like to convey their appreciation to Fr.
Frank and the people of St Andrew’s Parish. These people both past and present, have lived
the parish mission to outreach to those parishioners on the fringes of their large parish by
establishing high quality Catholic School’s such as St John the Apostle Catholic Primary
School.
Yours sincerely,
Mr. Simon Dundon
(Principal)
MACKILLOP CATHOLIC REGIONAL COLLEGE
Gospel values and the tradition of St Mary of the Cross is the grounding and inspiration for
our College vision:
Celebrating All Life
Challenging All People
Dreaming the New Day
The provision of an innovative, challenging and collaborative learning and teaching
environment within a rapidly evolving society encourages students to reach their full
potential as life-long learners. The beautifully maintained gardens, sporting fields and
recreation areas compliment the outstanding facilities of MacKillop.
MacKillop boasts innovative and technologically rich state-of-the-art learning areas
including an exemplary Science wing, a 400 seat Auditorium within the Performing Arts
Complex, an outstanding Sports Centre with gymnasium and an excellent Creative Arts
Centre. A dedicated Trade Training Centre - Engineering. Broad and comprehensive
curriculum offerings at MacKillop include a contemporary Gifted and Talented program and
support for students who experience learning difficulties. We have established successful
policies and practices that support student wellbeing. Our unique and dedicated Year 9
Campus provides programs which foster close links with the local community. We offer a
diversity of pathways for our students through our offering of VCE, VCAL & VET subjects.
Our emphasis on contemporary learning strategies is supported by up-to-date and extensive
digital infrastructure. This includes a 1:1 notebook program, a comprehensive wireless/hard
wire network in all classrooms throughout the College as well as a dedicated ICCT centre
which provides students and staff with specialised video and podcasting studios as well as
green-screen animation workspace.
Curriculum
With small class sizes across all year levels, we offer our senior students an impressive array
of over 40 Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) subjects with alternative pathways
through Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) and Vocational Education and
Training (VET) certificates as well as inclusion in the SEDA Sports Development Program.
From Years 7 – 10 a strong core and elective program establishes effective learning and
study practices. The College has a dedicated Year 9 campus at St Mary’s Werribee South
and a select-entry vocational program for Year 10 students. At Year 7 we have the Julian
Tenison Woods Program which is a select entry program for our gifted and talented students.
The College also offers students the opportunity to study a second language which comprise
of French, Italian and Japanese.
Sports
MacKillop is involved in Year 7 – 10 SACCSS Premier League competitions in netball,
basketball, football, soccer, softball and volleyball. We continue to have outstanding success
in sport at local, state and national level. Students can also participate in athletics, swimming,
cross-country, golf, tennis, futsal and equestrian just to name a few.
Education in Faith
Opportunity is given for students to continue to develop their faith and grow in knowledge
and wisdom within an inclusive environment which respects diversity and values dialogue.
The Religious Education program, the Retreat programs, liturgical celebrations, and
involvement in works of service and charity, all seek to engage students to come to a deeper
appreciation of our Catholic Identity and its contemporary relevance to their lives. This is
now further enhanced with the opening of the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Cross. The
Chapel is a place of prayer, of belonging to God, which invites peace and stillness, where
rich symbols and art speak to all and importantly connects us to our heritage.
Visioning work at the College is ongoing as we develop our contemporary and flexible
learning environment. Current projects include the building of additional learning spaces to
expand and complement our existing facilities. Our College will continue to be a vibrant,
faith-filled learning community as we prepare our students with the skills they need for
citizenship and a life of meaning in the twenty first century.
HOME BASED RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM 2015 (HBRE)
Looking back on 2015 makes us very happy. We had a wonderful year with
our 59 Students and their families. We were blessed to have our same
Catechists as in 2014. We thank Danni Camilleri, Marijana Jerkovic and
Clare Taylor for their dedication to our HBRE Program and the care they
give to our students. We also had wonderful parishioners who helped us
with Parent’s Meetings, Reflection Day and making of Confirmation Stoles.
A special part of our program is a Reflection Day for our Confirmation
students. Fr. Benneth’s RCIS students and Matthew Majur’s South Sudanese
students join us for a lovely reflective day beginning with 9.00am Mass.
During the day we listen to and reflect upon Spirit Filled People in our
Parish. The day concludes at 1.00pm with delicious lunch.
All children were prepared well and the Ceremonies for Reconciliation, First
Eucharist and Confirmation were very reverent and well attended by
families.
Year 2015 HBRE and RCIS had 37 students for Confirmation and it was the
first year that we celebrated the Confirmation Ceremony by ourselves. All
those involved are to be congratulated. We were very grateful to the Parish
Musicians who helped make our ceremonies so special.
We love our Sacramental Program for children attending non-Catholic
schools. We love watching our children develop throughout the four year
program and we feel blessed to have been given the opportunity to
coordinate such a wonderful experience for our children.
Thank you & God Bless
Therese Kennedy & Benita Dahanayake
Coordinators
RCIA – RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
This Easter 2016 we celebrated as seven catechumens (unbaptised), Nathan
Fischer, Carly Lawrence, Sharnie Milner, Sarah Molloy, Julie Percy, Susan Xie
and Paul Zhou, received the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and
Eucharist and one candidate (baptised in a Christian Church), Victoria
Fischer, received Confirmation and Eucharist.
These eight Neophytes (new Catholic’s) began their journey in July 2015
taking part in the Inquiry phase and after their Rite of Acceptance into the
Order of Catechumens they moved into the Catechumenate phase. During
the Lenten season they took part in the Period of Purification and
Enlightenment, including the Scrutinies, before receiving the Sacraments of
Initiation at the Easter Vigil Mass.
The Neophytes continued their post baptismal catechesis, the Period of
Mystagogia, as they move ever forwards in their relationship with God.
The RCIA is never called a program but rather a process as a program
implies that they have completed something but for all of us our journey of
trying to be Christ like, of relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance and of
growing continually in love towards God is never ending.
Often we have people enquiring to become Catholic and do not know any
Catholics who can stand for them as godparent or sponsor. The team
approaches people we feel would be fantastic supporters to journey with
them and I would like to acknowledge and thank our parishioners, Shannon
Sweeney, Katrina Gauci, Chrissie Van Der Hoeven, Belinda Sullivan, Sarah
York, Troy Rickard, Bev Sullivan and Sherry Vivera who journeyed with our
neophytes (new Catholics), offering their support and knowledge.
The RCIA team and parish sponsors are all volunteers and we give our time
freely as nothing could more special than to see the joy on the faces of the
neophytes at the Easter vigil mass as they stand beaming and proud, and I
believe touched by the Holy Spirit!
Louisa Sullivan
RCIA Coordinator
RCIS – RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF STUDENTS
RCIS is a Catechism based series of workshops for secondary students preparing for the
Sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, Holy Communion and Confirmation. Fr. Benneth
was conducting the workshops in 2015. We congratulate the Students who attended and
completed RCIS in 2015 and offer our prayerful wishes for their Faith formation ahead.
In 2016, we have had 11 enquiries from students to be enrolled and to start preparing
themselves for the Sacraments of Initiation. We started the program in the month of April
and it will conclude mid September 2016.
RCIC – RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF CHILDREN
This service continues for school aged children seeking the Sacrament of
Baptism. There are two programs per year, close to Lent and Advent. The
children and their parents meet for six sessions on Sundays before 11.00 am.
Mass. The children also attend Children’s Liturgy at that Mass along with other
children attending at that Mass. This is a whole parish responsibility to ensure
that these children approach Baptism mindful of the Catholic faith centred on
Jesus Christ.
Norma Marot
RCIC Coordinator
BAPTISM PREPARATION PROGRAM
Parents of each family enquiring for Baptism for their children are visited. First
time parents are required to attend a Preparation Seminar held on the fourth
Saturday of each month.
For subsequent children the Pastoral Associate gives a short revision of the
Sacrament of Baptism when they visit.
Evaluation forms from parents are very positive and indicate that the program is
successful.
Norma Marot
Baptism Preparation
GODSTART is a dynamic and engaging program for children
aged 2 to 5 years and their parents and carers. It provides
an introduction to PRAYER and SCRIPTURE in a fun and
interactive way!
The GODSTART session follows this basic structure:
Bible Story – As a focus,
the children are
introduced to a scripture
story or theme.
Craft / Activities – We complete hands on craft activities
based on the story or theme of the session.
Song / Dance – We move to the prayer space. We use
song, music and dance to reinforce the learning in the
session.
Prayer – We conclude with a prayer around the
GODSTART prayer mat and end with a song.
After the session, we have a short morning tea to
encourage and foster friendships between the children and it is a chance for the parents and
carers to talk and connect.
GODSTART takes place every third Thursday of the month, in the St. Andrew’s Penola
Hub, 33 Mortimer St Werribee from 10am – 11:30am.
Our dates for 2016 are February 18th, March 17th, April
21st, May 19th, June 16th, July 21st, August 18th,
September 15th, October 20th, November 17th,
December 15th .
Please contact Susanne Sweeny on 0438 372 952 for
further information.
LITTLE TREASURES PLAY- AND FRIENDSHIP GROUP
The main objective: to create an environment for the parents, caregivers, their
preschool children and babies to meet together regularly, make new friends and
share ideas, information, joy and challenges.
 The gathering of our group was held at the Penola Hub each Wednesday
from 10.30am – 12pm. (excluding school holidays).
 It is a very relaxed atmosphere for the parents and children involved, all the
children are encouraged to play with the toys and other activities including
drawing, art and craft works.
 There is a voluntary gold coin donation to raise funds to get toys and
presents for Easter and Christmas for the children.
 We celebrate birthdays, Mother’s and Father’s Day by making cards and
gifts and other activities to improve expression of love and care.
The Little Treasures had their last day on Wednesday 14th of October due to low
turnout. If there is an expression of interest for the opening up of this group
please contact Sherry Vivera at the Parish office.
CHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORD
We have a committed group of leaders who lead Children’s Liturgy of the Word
each Sunday during school terms at the 9.30am and 11am Mass at St. Andrews
Church.
 The Children’s Liturgy of the Word refers to the practice of children
leaving the Sunday Assembly during the Liturgy of the Word and gathering
elsewhere to celebrate a separate Liturgy of the Word that is more
appropriate to their level of understanding.
 This helps the children understand the meaning of the bible reading more
easily with activities and stories. Children will get opportunity to share their
ideas and participate in the prayers and songs.
 The commitment of our Leaders who are all volunteers is greatly
appreciated and we are looking forward to build on this practice and
involve the children more into celebration of the Mass.
Please contact Sherry Vivera at Parish office for more information.
WYNDHAM CWL BRANCH
We have much pleasure in presenting our report for 2016
Our Branch has a very active membership who support the 3 parishes of
Wyndham (Werribee).
As we have now done for a number of years - we distributed our duties amongst
the members so as to have more of our members involved with the running of the
Branch. This has worked well for our Branch.
Our meetings commence with lunch – we have our own private room at an Italian
restaurant where we have a seniors meal. Following lunch our meeting
commences.
At each meeting “a Reflection” is an important part of the Agenda.
In February we commenced our year with Mass celebrated by Fr.Jude. This year
it was Ash Wednesday so the pupils and parents from St. James school attended
the Mass. President Pauline and Secretary Denise were asked to join the
procession carrying the ashes.
At the end of Mass Fr.Jude told the students and parents of the work Wyndham
Catholic Women’s League does for the 3 parishes.
Members of our branch are involved with St.Vincent De Paul’s Op shop,
Ministry to the Nursing homes in Werribee, Alter cleaning, volunteering at
St.Peter’s parish office, Food bank meals for the needy and many other pastoral
activities.
In May we will be celebrating our 20th Birthday. A Luncheon will be held at the
Italian Social club together with a presentation from Oz Knit. This will also be a
fundraising event where we will invite guests to join us.
Once again we have two Bus outings planned for the year. The City of Wyndham
provide us with a free Bus. Members always look forward to these days.
We look forward to continuing the work of the Catholic Women’s League within
the families of the Parishes of Wyndham.
Pauline Nicol
President
Denise Doolan
Secretary.
EL SHADDAI (GOD ALMIGHTY) CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP
The El Shaddai Prayer Group consists of 20-25 members, meeting every Tuesday afternoon,
1 – 2.30 in St Andrews Penola Hub, 33 Mortimer St. Werribee. We meet to praise and
worship the lord in song, learning and sharing our experiences of faith through the word of
God and each other, and work in our community according to the need.
The highlights of the group’s activities for 2015 were:
 Fr. Frank Buhagiar (Parish Priest), Fr. Benneth Osuagwu and Fr. Shymon
Thekkekalathungal (Assistant Priests) taught and supported us in our Spiritual Journey
and celebrated charismatic masses during the year
 On the 3rd of February, we started the year with a presentation mass: “Jesus Be Our
Light” (2015)
 Adoration of the blessed sacrament with Healing Prayer for our needs and for the
needs of others
 Lenten Programme theme: “Rich in Mercy”. Book of Archbishop Mark Coleridge,
prayers Kari Hatherell
 Organized morning tea after our Ecumenical walk of the Stations of the Cross on
Good Friday
 Personal Experiences shared of
o The Canonization of St. Joseph Vas by Pope Francis, from Ruki
Pandithakoralage
o Leadership at a Catholic School, from Royston Fernandes, School Captain of
Mary MacKillop College (2015)
 Participated in
o “Sharing the Joy of the Gospel” – From the book of Pope Francis
o “The Gifts of the Holy Spirit” - By Adrian Commadeur and Sr. Robinson
o “Awaken to the Grace Within” – A DVD course from Jan Heath, from
Queensland
 Retreat Day with Fr. Benneth with the theme “Call to Holiness, Fed and strengthen by
the Eucharist that gives us the fire to Evangalise”
 New life in spirit seminars with speakers from members of the C.C.R center of
Melbourne
 We celebrated an end of the year mass thanksgiving mass by Fr Shymon, finishing
with a film on the life of St Joseph Vas, patron of Sri Lanka
Would you like to come and see what this group is all about? You are all very welcome to
come and join us. We are a multicultural group, who all come together to praise the Lord
through the Holy Spirit. At the end of every session there is a Fellowship, and from there we
evangelise with our life, wherever the Lord calls us to our Brothers and Sisters in need. For
Prayer Support, Enquiries or a lift contact the core group members: Frances Bucci, John
Vella and Philomena Fernandes, via St Andrews Parish 9741 4144.
Thankyou all, may God Bless you and your families.
DIVINE MERCY PRAYER GROUP
We thank you Fr. Frank, Fr. Bennet and Fr. Shymon, for giving us this
opportunity to come together and pray the Divine Mercy chaplet. As we meet
every Friday, 9.30 at the Penola Hub, our group is growing stronger in presence
and spirit every day. In addition to this, every third Friday we visit the elderly at
the Mercy Place Nursing Home, to not only pray the divine mercy chaplet with
them, but to also spend some time with them. Familiar faces are seen every week,
however new faces have joined over the last year and have been greeted with a
warm welcome. In the future, we’re hoping to keep our meetings at the church
immediately following morning mass, with the priest/s taking part in the chaplet
also.
Thank you to everyone who came and celebrated the divine mercy feast on
Divine Mercy Sunday, it was a great turnout, and the night was a great success!
Philomen and the Divine Mercy Group
ITALIAN CHARISMATIC PRAYER GROUP
"GESU RISORTO"
The Italian Charismatic prayer group "Gesu` Risorto"
will celebrate 35 years of life this year, and has continued to meet in
the Penola Hub every Wednesday morning from 10am to 12.00pm.
The core group consists of a co-ordinator and 4 other persons.
The main focus of the prayer group is praise and worship, scripture
reading, reflection and sharing of Gods word.
PROGRAM FOR 2015
. Lenten program.
. Exposition and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament..
. Reflections on the scriptures, occasionally by visiting speakers from
the ICCR and other prayer groups and from DVD’s.
. 6 week reflection from the Pope Frances’ book
“La gioia del vangelo” (Joy of the gospel)
. 3 week teachings on DVD on topics from the gospel of John.
. Fellowship every last Wednesday of the month.
. Intercessory prayers for the needs of the community.
. Core group meeting once a month.
. Attend leaders days once a month at ICCR Centre in Northcote.
. Organize outings twice a year with community bus.
. Attend Italian Charismatic Renewal’s annual 4 day National
Conference in October.
. Organize nativity play at the end of the year.
CARMELA TRAMONTANA (CO-ORDINATOR)
ST. ANTHONY’S ITALIAN COMMUNITY
Our committee prepares for the celebration of three feast days annually:
St. Joseph’s Feast Day is celebrated in March, St. Anthony’s Feast Day is celebrated in
June and the Feast of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated in December.
Our celebrations include mass at St. Andrew’s Church and a procession around the
grounds (weather permitting). The celebration on St. Anthony’s Feast Day includes the
blessing of the bread.
These celebrations are part of our culture and we hope to keep this alive by continuing the
tradition of the celebrations. All who attend enjoy our celebration and get together to
share afternoon tea and contribute to the basket for the poor.
The Committee for this year includes Luisa, Santina, Vilma, Carmela, Rocco and Nancy.
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY
The St Vincent de Paul Society Werribee Conference which was founded on 4 July 1973
is a small group of volunteers who give their time to others in the community who are in
need.
We aim to serve the poor with love, respect, justice, hope and joy. We aspire to be
recognised as a caring charity offering “a hand up” to people in need. We do this by
respecting their dignity, sharing our hope and encouraging them to take control of their
own destiny.
We can manage five home visits a day and offer support by providing vouchers for food,
medicines and clothing, order furniture as well as support children with their educational
needs . We are able to stay with people until they are back on their feet; sometimes
referring them to other agencies as we are not trained for complex problems.
Conference members meet twice a month in the Penola Hub for prayer and discussion and
new members are always welcome.
.
Each year we ask the wider community for support at the Poor Man’s Mass and through
our Christmas appeal. Both are always a huge success which allows us to continue our
work in a generous manner.
The annual turnover for 2015 was approximately $105,500 consisting of 978 home visits
assisting 1623 adults and 1719 children.
We have 15 active members and 3 volunteers.
“Go and do likewise.
Love God and love your neighbour.
Take care of those in need.
Take a risk to offer help.
Even take care of those who belong to a different group from you’’
George Cairns
President Werribee Conference.
LITURGY PLANNING TEAM
Over the past year, the Liturgy Planning Team has continued to meet and support the
Priests in planning the many different masses throughout the year.
These included
 Christmas Penitential Service
 Lenten Penitential Service
 Holy Week
 Pentecost Mass
 Other Special Masses
The Theme for this year is “MERCY”
We have also welcome new members at the start of the year.
Liturgy Planning Team
ST. ANDREW’S ALTAR SOCIETY
The Society is probably better known as the Church Cleaning Group because that is their
main role in the Parish. The Parish supplies the cleaning needs and organises two special
collections each year to help cover the cost of flowers.
A small group of ladies take turns with the small item laundering (e.g. communion cloths)
and another group gives valuable assistance to the priests with the preparation of weekday
masses and other specialist jobs.
Many of the men and ladies on the rosters have been volunteers for decades and some are
forced to retire because of age or ill health. It is difficult attracting new volunteers. If
you have ever considered joining the group, please give it some more thought. The work
is not heavy and people are only called on to help once every few weeks. Times can be
negotiated to suit you. Many of the current volunteers work part time or some even full
time, but have rostered days off. We are very grateful to the men who assist with the
vacuuming because that is the most strenuous job.
If anyone is interested in finding out more about the rosters, please contact the Parish
Office on 9741 4144. Thank you.
ST. ANDREW’S PARISH MUSIC MINISTRY
The St. Andrew’s Music Ministry consists of groups of singers and musicians who are
dedicated to providing music and singing for the Sunday Eucharist and many other Parish
Celebrations.
The Music Ministry operates on a roster basis, attempting to cater for as many of the
masses each weekend as possible, as well as special celebrations.
The group coordinator’s role includes:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Formulating a roster.
Choosing appropriate music to match the readings of the day.
Ensuring that the music is ready each weekend.
Keeping track of copy-right issues.
Informing all members of upcoming events.
Organising and running regular practices.
Ensuring that copies of music and overheads are created as required.
We continue to provide the best service that we can to the Parish and are encouraged by
the generally positive response to our efforts. We are fortunate to have a number of
groups and individuals give of their time and talent on a regular basis and I would like to
thank them for their commitment.
St. Andrew’s Parish Choir practice is held in the church on the Tuesday evening before the
choir is scheduled to sing. For anyone interested in attending, the dates are available at the
Parish Office and are on the roster that is sent out to all Music Ministry members.
Additional practices for special celebrations, such as at Easter, Pentecost or Christmas are
also advertised. Anyone is welcome to join us, no experience necessary.
We are continually seeking more members of the Parish who can make a contribution to
the Music Ministry, no matter how small. Anyone who is interested in either joining a
choir or contributing independently can contact Birgit Minness on Ph. 9741 3943 or
[email protected] or at the Parish Office on Ph. 9741 4144. Thank you.
Birgit Minness
SARILING TINIG FILIPINO CHOIR
F – Filipinos coming from the three main islands of the Philippines:
Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao
I – Individuals with diverse talent, interest, age raging from 24 to 69
L – Loves music: to sing and to dance but, sometimes music doesn’t
love us
I – Interested in outings . . . June 3 – 5 2016, 16th Year Anniversary at
Daylesford
P – Practice is every third Saturday of the month and four o’clock pm
before the five pm Mass of the first Sunday of the month
I – Instant rehearsals we easily do for other institutions and Parish
Combined Choir, we join both
N – November Parish Fair . . . sell/buy tickets and entertain.
Christmas and Holy Week we decorate the church
O – Our main goal is to deliver and implement the words of GOD
thru songs and helping hands in our own little way
C – Christmas Carols we do in different nursing homes and every
Christmas eve
H – Happy heart, welcoming smiles and kind words are our rewards
O – Over the mountains, over the sea, we remain solid as one big
Family
I – Introducing the 27 members: Vic, Medy, Elman, Julie, Timmie,
Nick, Chit, Cynthia, Michael
R – Rose, Raffy, Joy, Roger, Josie, Edgar, Janet, Gerry, Cora, Sergs,
Clarece, Liz, Liezl, Nelly, Emily, Luchi, AJ and Vinna
STFC280416
COUPLES FOR CHRIST FOUNDATION FOR FAMILY AND LIFE
(CFC-FFL)
The CFC-FFL have continually been very active in its General Assemblies and
Cell Group prayer meetings. The faith community has been very much
occupied with various activities such as Christian Life Seminars, Special
Teaching nights and many other special events. We have been fortunate to
have been visited by international missionary figures, including the Country
Coordinators of China and Hong Kong, and the world-wide Servant General
Frank Padilla of the CFC-FFL of the Philippines.
In early April this year, the CFC-FFL Australia had its
annual conference attended by about 300 delegates from all
over the country and overseas. The conference
weekend was likewise attended by our very own
Fr Benneth Osuagwu, who officiated the
Eucharistic Exposition and Benediction. Bishop
Mark Edwards, OMI DD PhD, Auxiliary Bishop of
Melbourne, celebrated the mass. A few other clergy also
graced the occasion. There are plans to possibly introduce some new programs
intended to provide extended support the young and adult members of the
parish. CFC-FFL remains a strong faith group around the Parish.
ENSEMBLE OF FAITH CHOIR
Though the membership of the music group
have been quite dynamic, the choir continued
to be faithful in its mass music services in the
Parish for over a decade now. In the past
months, it has even been supporting the
Young Adults Group Music Group as well.
We anticipate to remain committed to serving
in the Parish for a very long haul.
SRI LANKAN COMMUNITY AND ST. JOSEPH VAZ CHOIR
On 14 January 2015 ST JOSEPH VAZ was canonised by Pope Francis at Colombo in Sri
Lanka. St Joseph Vaz was a native of Goa where he was born in 1651. Joseph was
ordained in 1676 and was devoted to the Blessed Virgin.
We are the Sri Lankan Community of St. Andrew’s Parish and have come together and
formed a choir in September, 2013 which was named “Joseph Vaz Choir”. We sing on the
4th Sunday of every month at the 5:00 pm mass. We practice on Wednesday before the 4th
Sunday at 7:45 pm.
During the past year we have strengthen the group and the community. The group has
participated in various activities in and out of the parish thereby getting to know other
communities.
We attended the feast of St Anthony in Lara organized by one of our members. This is an
annual event. The Mass is celebrated in English, Sinhala & Tamil languages brining
communities together. People from various parishes attend this celebration.
In the coming year we plan to have family outings and community gatherings.
In addition, we also organise the offertory which is a special moment in which several
gifts are offered. This includes flowers which are a testament to the beauty of nature. The
fruits basket, candles and other produce given to God in gesture of offering the best in
each of us, and expressing the pure devotion and love of God. We encourage all families
to take part.
We also have a fellowship after the mass and welcome everyone to join us to share some
food and get to know each other better, as this leads to serve the community and help each
other at all times, which we hope to continue in the years to come.
We also welcome any parishioner young and old, from any walk of life to come and join
hands with us to serve together, by way of doing the gospel readings, serving at the altar,
joining the choir, setting up and helping during and after the mass and any event which is
organised, which will make this community strong and better to serve our parish. We also
have members from Pakistan, India & Indonesia.
For further information of the group please contact one of the following; Shandina de
Zilva 0421 976 403, or Nimal Pandithakoralege 0417 374 593.
SOUTH SUDANESE COMMUNITY
The South Sudanese Parishioners and choir have been very active in the Parish
in 2015 to 2016. They were involved in many activities. As usual we have
choir singing every second Sunday. Every fourth Sunday we have South
Sudanese Mass at 2pm. Every Tuesday night, rosary by the women’s group
(Legion of Mary). Every Saturday we have Dinka school for school aged
children from 1pm to 4pm at St. Andrew’s School and the Basketball team for
the children every Friday and Saturday. Playgroup for the mothers and their
children is held in St. Andrew’s Room 3 every Thursday.
On the other hand we have lots of celebrations – Christmas celebration, Holy
Family Sunday, St. Bakhita and Daniel Comboni Feast days and Easter.
Last year we had a visit from Rome, a South Sudanese Priest who is studying
in Rome, Fr. Stephen. Thanks to Fr. Frank for his warm welcome to Fr.
Stephen who spent two beautiful and busy weeks with us. We also have a very
blessed spiritual retreat for the whole day in the Penola Hub.
We thank the Lord and Fr. Frank for having one of our catechists, William
Daw, accepted to study for the permanent Deaconate. That is a great
achievement for the Parish and South Sudanese Parishioners.
Not to forget, last year we had a large number of children baptised and
candidates who received their Reconciliation, First Communion and
Confirmation. We thank those who really work hard with the candidates, Fr.
Benneth, Fr. Shymon, Lou, Marthese, Sherry, Therese, Benita and others.
Lastly, I would like to thank Fr. Frank, Fr. Benneth, Fr. Shymon, Deacon
George and all the administrators plus pastoral leaders for all the great work
they are doing to keep our Parish active. Also to all Parishioners of different
communities in the Parish for their fruitful contributions. May God bless you
all and keep you safe in this Year of Mercy.
Thanks,
Matthew Majur and William Daw
TAMIL COMMUNITY AND CHOIR
Fr. Anthony Gnanapragasam the Tamil Chaplin for the Archdiocese of Melbourne
celebrates the Tamil Mass at the Penola Hub every third Sunday of the month at
5pm. The Tamil Community are very thankful for being welcome with open arms in
our Parish of St. Andrews. Fellowship follows after each mass. Our choir sings
cultural songs during the mass. Anyone is welcome to join us.
Contact person – John Krishnakumar 0435 903 186 and Meshewaran Kingsleypillai
0469610716
ST. ANDREW’S AMATEUR THEATRE COMPANY
The St Andrew’s Amateur Theatre Company was founded in 2009 and is supported
by the St Andrew’s Parish particularly our Parish Priest Fr. Frank Buhagiar, Fr.
Benneth Osuagwu and Fr. Shymon Thekkekalathungal. We provide a safe and
welcoming environment where the youth of our faith community can come together
to create entertaining productions.
In 2015 we were proud to present Hairspray. Hairspray was set in Baltimore,
Maryland in 1962, where a teenage girl called Tracy Turnblad had one dream: to
dance on the “Corny Collins Show”. Hairspray is the story of how Tracy
transformed from a nobody into a star overnight and how she used her newfound
fame to influence racial integration. This bright and energetic musical had a
beautiful message of acceptance and taught us to look past the colour of one’s skin
and fight for human rights.
It was wonderful to see so many talented young people in our parish come together
and showcase their talents for the community. Due to their dedication, support and
enthusiasm the show was a great success.
For further information please visit our website at:
http://www.standrewstheatrecompany.com
PEONIES CRAFT GROUP
We are proud of our craft group. Over the years we have all become close
friends. We are a multicultural group with members who are Scottish, Spanish,
Italian, Karin, Filipino, Chilean and Sri Lankan. Also a number of us moved
here from Tasmania, North Queensland and Canberra.
Currently we are undertaking a Prayer Shawl Ministry. This project was
introduced to us most recently and each of us will take part in knitting the
shawls. We will lovingly knit for those in need of comfort, a feeling of
wellbeing and a knowledge that a loving God is always with them. We knit for
all those known and unknown to us. Our parish will know who the people are
in need of the shawls.
Apart from that a number of us have undertaken a craft we learned in our youth
called ‘French Knitting’. We are doing this via a product purchased from
Spotlight, which enables us to make beanies for ourselves, relatives and
grandchildren. Another member is doing some embroidery for a special wall
hanging for the young kids who attend Liturgy Classes in the St Andrews
Parish.
Also, we are entitled to two day trips via a small council bus each year. For
our first trip we have booked to go down to Waurn Ponds in Geelong. Others
who have visited there have recommended it, so we feel it will be an enjoyable
day.
We always look forward to our weekly meetings, which are held on Thursday
mornings from 10 a.m. to 12.00 and we would appreciate any further members
who feel they’d like to join our group.
WERRIBEE SOUTH ROSARY GROUP
The Rosary Group gather together at St Mary’s Campus Werribee South, on the 3rd
Thursday of the month from 2.00 to 3.00 pm excluding school holidays.
 The Rosary Group is a faithful group who come together to say the Rosary.
 We pray and intercede for the many needs which arise in our parish, we specially
pray for the priests, sick people, those who are dying, for engaged couples and
whatever the need and situation is requested by different people which needs to be
covered in prayer.
 The Rosary group takes advantage of the Council bus trips offered to groups each
year.
 We gather for a Christmas outing together to share the love and joy of Christmas.
 We make regular visits to Point cook Manor Aged care facility to pray the rosary
with the residents.
Prayer is vital for our parish to continue to run smoothly, so we appeal to anyone who has
a spare hour once a month to join with us in prayer.
Please contact Sherry Vivera at Parish office for more
information.
CASEROLE BANK
Heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the Casserole Bank in 2015. There were over
160 meals provided for families throughout the year with 16 regular volunteers. We are
also very thankful to the year 12 students from MacKillop College who supplied many
meals for the Casserole Bank.
We are happy to accept casseroles, pasta, soups etc. with a list of ingredients attached.
Please use ice-cream containers or non-returnable containers. Anyone wishing to
contribute can leave casseroles at the Parish Office during office hours. For pick up or
enquiries please contact Parish Office on
9741 4144.
Louisa Sullivan, Sherry Vivera and Marthese Temming
MINISTRY OF PRAYER FOR ENGAGED COUPLES
The Ministry Of Prayer For The Engaged was set up so that prayers are offered
by a team of ‘prayers’ from the Parish, for those couples who are engaged to be
married. Members of the team are allocated couples approximately 3 months
prior to the couple’s planned wedding day. The Rosary Group has taken on the
role of praying for our engaged couples.
ENGAGED COUPLES MARRIAGE PREPARATION
FOCCUS has been used as an instrument for marriage preparation in St.
Andrew’s Parish for the past 30 years. At the present time we only have one
facilitator, a registered member of the Catholic Society for Marriage Education
(CSME). During 2015, 21 couples were married at St. Andrew’s Church, as
well as some couples getting married elsewhere; these couples were all
prepared by the St. Andrew’s facilitator.
The Church has a responsibility for marriage education and in helping couples
live out the sacrament. FOCCUS assists by giving couples an opportunity to
explore their strengths and weaknesses in a relationship, and the areas they
wish to develop further. It is a comprehensive way of stimulating and helping
people to grow.
Whatever is discussed between the facilitator and the couple is essentially
CONFIDENTIAL. If there is a need to seek help on the part of the facilitator,
then this should be discussed with the couple and their wishes taken into
account and respected. At all times the couple’s dignity, freedom and respect is
maintained, allowing them the choice to share as much or as little of their story
as they desire.
As part of its work in the Melbourne Archdiocese in the field of Marriage
Education, CatholicCare Family Services is responsible for maintaining the
integrity of the FOCCUS instrument and for adequately training facilitators.
Karen Michelon
Coordinator
YOUNG ADULTS GROUP
We have been blessed with another successful year in the parish under the
guidance of Fr. Benneth. Firstly, we would like to acknowledge the hard work
and efforts of Dillon Palmer and Alexandra Lawes for their leadership in the
2015 year. We start 2016 with a new leadership group, but with the hope of
growing spiritually, cultivating our membership and continuing to contribute to
the parish.
Our highlights in the past year include:
- Our monthly mass on the 2nd Sunday of each month at 5pm
- Car wash drive held in November in support of the St. Andrew’s Parish
Fair
- Our 3rd year at the “Chocolate Toss” booth at the Parish Fair
- Sending a delegation to the Australian Catholic Youth Festival in
Adelaide
- Providing music at the Carols and Christmas Midnight Mass in
conjunction with “Ensemble of Faith” Parish Group
- Hosting some games (and participating too!) at the Parish Picnic in
March
- Good Friday Stations of the Cross Mercy play “By His Mercy”- lead by
Elizabeth and with the participation of our parish kids
We would also like to acknowledge Jim Lizardo, who has been generously
supporting our activities, from Christmas through to Easter.
For those aged 18-35 who would like to join us, we meet at the Penola Hub at
6.30pm every second Friday. Please join in our activities which include
Adoration, Praise and Worship, Bible reflections and social events like Pizza
Nights and Bowling. Thank you and God Bless!
ALTAR SERVERS
The Parish Altar Servers have continued over the year to support the Parish in
all aspects of liturgy. Our servers have also played part in services in our
schools, as well as in other schools. We continue to welcome more servers to
join our guild. Over the past year also we have had a number of severs who
have reached year seven inducted into the Australian Branch of the Guild of St.
Stephen at St. Patrick Cathedral.
Here are some of the many things that the servers take part in:
 Sunday masses
 Christmas masses
 Holy Week Liturgies
 Supporting the schools in their masses
 Confirmations
 Funerals
 Pentecost Mass
 Training Sessions
 Other special masses
We have been always encouraging students in the schools, those who have
made their first communion to take an active role in the parish as an Altar
Server. We also had a ‘Pizza Night’ for all the active Altar Server in our Parish
and this will continue as well for year 2016.
Fr. Shymon
Assistant Priest
KNIGHTS OF THE SOUTHERN CROSS (VIC)
2015-2016 has been a busy year for the KSC
The Order is advancing steadily with the State Project that refocuses on
relevance in our Parishes, through becoming more closely involved and
working with the Parish Clergy.
It was a great honour for me, at the Archbishop’s Dinner, to present
Archbishop Hart with a cheque for $80,000 for the Priests’ Support and
Education Fund, bringing the total over seventeen years to $1,000,000. This
has enabled Seminarians to take on specialist studies, here and overseas, as
well as supporting Priests who take on more training.
Other fundraising enables donations to St. Vincent de Paul, Scholarships to our
Regional Colleges, and a variety of other worthy causes.
Support of petitions supporting changes to the abortion laws, protests regarding
same sex “marriage” legislation, have been organised during the past year.
There are many more legislative issues of which the Knights are organising to
influence the outcomes.
Refugees and asylum seekers are receiving support in many areas, and plans
are being developed to broaden this activity.
There is a great number of challenges to our Christian values that Parishes need
to be organised to meet, or combat. It is in this area the Knights are becoming
more active in Parishes, as the expansion plans progress.
It is my hope to form a St. Andrew’s Branch of the Knights, to become a part
of the broader body, and more effective in Parish functions, involving men of
our Parish.
John Hennessy, State Chairman,
Knights of the Southern Cross (Vic).
ST. ANDREW’S TENNIS CLUB
The St. Andrews Tennis Club continues to deliver great friendship and physical exercise
for all club members. During the past 12 months the club has conducted coaching and
competitions for our juniors and seniors with the addition of ‘Open Senior Week, during
October for the past two years.
The courts are used every day of the week by our schools and club members.
We the committee have continued to maintain the clubhouse and grounds with renovation.
Social Open Days are conducted twice a year with The Edith Grinham Cup Open run
every April.
New memebers are welcome to come and join in with any of our events that are run every
day and Wednesday night
Joe Micallef
President of St. Andrew’s Tennis Club on behalf of the hard working Committee.
ST. ANDREW’S PLAYGROUP & ACTIVITY GROUPS
St. Andrew Playgroup and Activity Group are held on Tuesday in two sessions at the
Penola Hub.
The first one, Playgroup, between the hours of 9am – 11am, followed by the second
session 12noon – 2pm for Activity Group.
The morning session Playgroup is full up with 25 children attending and the after lunch
Activity Group has 20 registered children.
Playgroup could take a few more as 3 to 5 children do not always show up on the day due
to various factors – ie. child or family member sick or Mum has to work, etc. etc.
Children must be 3 years old to participate in Activity Group after first attending previous
St. Andrews playgroup session. Parent/s are require to attend to assist, when & where they
can for playgroup session only.
Last year we had a family Christmas party for the children. It was attended by not only the
parents but also grandparents & friends of the family. This was held on the first Sunday in
December. This was a great success – a wonderful time was had by all.
Many thanks to Fr. Frank for letting us use the Penola Hub and for also joining us at the
church. The children were dressed in nativity costumes and Christmas carols were sung by
the children participating in the church together with their families.
The Playgroup keeps it’s fees low to assist those families in the community that may be
disadvantage by not being able to afford some of the larger costs charged by most
playgroup in the municipality.
It therefore, usually has one or two fund-raiser during the year to help raise the necessary
monies required to buy new toys & funds required for the annual Christmas Party food,
drink & most of all – Santa’s toys for the children.
St. Andrews Playgroup & Activity group has entered into its 38 th year of operation and we
hope that it will be here for many years to come.
On a personal note, I would like to thank all the helpers, mums and dads and even the
grandparents that help assist to make Playgroup so much fun and a very special thank you
to Elly Keck for assisting me over the years in Activity Group.
On a sad note, I have announced to Fr. Frank that I will retire at the end of this year, and
hopefully someone will take up the reins where I have left off.
Rosie Dunne
Co-ordinator St. Andrew's Playgroups & Activity Groups