Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the liturgical Church season known as Lent. During the next 40 days we will be journeying together as a Catholic community to prepare our hearts and lives for the new hope that we are promised at Easter. 

Lent is a time for examining our hearts and being willing to make changes by being better people. We can do this by: Praying, Fasting and Almsgiving. 

Praying, Fasting and Almsgiving are the cornerstones of Lent, and Jesus tells us within today’s Gospel reading that they should not be done merely for personal gain or status. Rather, when we take the time to pray, fast and give to others, it should be done in consideration of the good of others and in honouring God. 

When we go to pray, find a quiet place where you can be one with God.  

Fasting gives us the opportunity to sacrifice something that will help us to cleanse ourselves of clutter. 

Giving alms challenges us to give to those who are most vulnerable without acknowledgment. 

As part of our wider Catholic community we support Caritas Australia to challenge ourselves to aspire to be more, to be a voice for the voiceless, and support the needs of those locally and within a global family.  

Each Homeroom has a Project Compassion box and all staff and students are encouraged to be generous in their giving to support the projects and communities that Caritas Australia works with. This work enables communities to live sustainably. 

When we as a College partake in Project Compassion, we are bringing to life the College values of â€˜Promoting justice and service to others’ and â€˜Respecting the dignity of each person.’ 

May we the AvÐÔ°® Christi community make Jesus real by putting our faith into action during this Lenten season as we give generously.