Friday 10th January 2020

I do hope that all our children and their families enjoyed a wonderful Christmas break.  Each New Year brings with it the possibility of making a new resolution - a new year resolution regarding how we live our lives for the better. Our new virtues for this half term, compassionate and loving, are a great starting point in how we should interact with one another in our daily lives. St John Henry Newman said: 'To live is to change, and to be perfect is to have changed often.' However, we might resolve to pray more, read the scriptures more and love our neighbour more. Archbishop Bernard's Pastoral Letter dated 28/29th December 2019 also reminds us about how St. Joseph listened and immediately responded to the angel's message, translating his belief into action to ensure the safety of the Holy Family: 'As we look ahead to a new year we can make it our resolution to bring all our decisions to prayer and to reflect on them through the Scriptures.  This is the Year of the Word, which we are celebrating under the title The God Who Speaks.  The story of St. Joseph is a powerful illustration of God's desire to speak his love and truth into our lives, if only we will listen.'

A reminder of the procedure if the school was to close in advance of the school day.  The Principal will make the decision to close the school and a text message will be sent to parents by 7am on the day of the closure. A message will also be added to the home page of the school website.  The Principal will also contact the Local Authority and local radio stations to advise of the school closure.  Please ensure that the school office has your latest mobile contact number if this has changed recently.

Cross Country training for this year's Stourbridge League will begin on Tuesday 14th January at 12.20pm. This will also incorporate an athletics trial for the sportshall competition later on in the month. Please ensure that your child brings to school a separate sports kit including plenty of layers.  Training sessions will normally take place on a Monday. The first round of this year's competition will take place at St. Joseph's School on Wednesday 5th February starting at 4pm.  If any parents are able to marshal then please leave your name with the school office.  Thank you.

Dear Lord Jesus, as we start this new year, please help us to grow in wisdom and to be wise enough to guide others to you. Amen.

Pupils at St. Joseph's are growing to be: compassionate towards others, near and far, especially the less fortunate; and loving by their actions and forgiving words.

Promotion of World Peace: We pray that Christians, followers of other religions, and all people of goodwill may promote peace and justice in the world.