Friday 9th November 2018

This Sunday's Gospel, reminds us that even the smallest of good deeds, done with love, does not escape Jesus' attention. The widow's gift was so little, that in some ways, it would hardly make a difference.  But Jesus reminds us that the amount we give is not as important as the love with which we give a gift.  God wants us to trust and depend on him, and to share our gifts of time and talents to help others.  When used well, our gifts help us to find our purpose in life and to improve the lives of those around us.

Thank you to Mrs Riley, the school staff and children of Year 2 for sharing their wonderful, thoughtful and respectful assembly earlier today. It was a very moving and reflective opportunity for us all to think about the millions of people who sacrificed their lives so that there could be peace in the world.  Unfortunately, we know that this was not the war to end wars, and violence and conflict between nations continues today.  The display boards of photographs of family members from our community will be moved to the chapel in Our Lady and All Saints for the Masses this coming weekend.  Mrs Riley will also lay a wreath on behalf of our school community at the service at Mary Steven's Park too.  We pray to God and remember all who have died in conflict, especially the 17 former pupils of St. Joseph's School, who died in the Great War.  The memorial plaque is now in the school hall and is a fitting tribute to the local men who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Please support one of the Masses at OLAS this weekend or attend the service at Mary Steven's Park on Sunday morning.  We will remember them. 

This coming Monday is the beginning of National Anti-Bullying Week.  The theme for this year is 'Choose Respect'.  Through the Gospel Assembly on Monday, the children will learn about the meaning of the word 'respect' and also that they have the choice to make decisions about how to be respectfu to each other.  This is also one of our School Rights - The right to be treated with respect, which forms the basis around our Behaviour and Anti-bullying policies.  The children will also have the opportunity to explore this theme further with their teachers during PSHE lessons and circle time during the course of the week.  Wednesday is 'Odd Socks Day' which celebrates the uniqueness of every person made in the image and likeness of God.  If you would like more information about this year's theme please look at the following website: https://www.anti-bullyingalliance.org.uk/anti-bullying-week-2018/

A reminder that children can bring in tracksuit bottoms for outdoor PE sessions and can also wear their jumpers over their PE t-shirts too until the end of Spring term 1.  This also applies for sportskits for sessions with school staff and external providers before and after school.

Many thanks to the members of the PTA, parents and children who supported the PTA disco on Friday 26th October.  A total of £426 has been raised to help support the chidren here at St. Joseph's.  The next PTA meeting will take place on Thursday 15th November at The Wagon and Horse starting at 7.30pm.  All welcome to attend. 

On Monday 12th November we will be celebrating the 25th Anniversary of National School Meals Week. There will be a change to this week's menu. Please refer to menu below. On Monday we will be celebrating Armistice Day so please wear a poppy in remembrance. Tuesday is Superhero Day and you can wear your superhero cape for lunch. On Wednesday we will be wishing Prince Charles a happy birthday. School dinners are free for children in Reception class and Key Stage 1. Dinners cost £2.30 per day for children in Key Stage 2.

Pupils at St. Joseph's growing to be faith-filled in their beliefs and hopeful for the future.

Dear Lord Jesus, thank you for the many gifts you have given us.  Please help us to be generous and cheerful in all we do for you and for each other.  Amen.

In the Service of Peace: That the language of love and dialogue may always prevail over the language of conflict.