A Word from Cassie Dixon
Core Teacher, Year 8
Students in Year 7 and 8 had a wonderful time last week at Cru Camp Lake Macquarie. Although the camp was originally planned for early Term 2, it was a tremendous blessing to be able to spend three days with the campers as they took to the water, faced their fears, and spent time learning about the character of God.
It was full of fun and sharing great experiences with friends. My favourite things about camp were sailing, rock climbing and the lake walk. First of all, sailing felt like I was like a bird flying over the top of the water. Second of all, rock climbing – my heart was pounding so much that it felt like I was bungy jumping out of a plane cause I made it that high! Third of all, the lake walk was amazing as we learnt about all those old things that had been dissolved and taken away through erosion. Also, I loved how we could talk and learn more about our class and school mates.
Georgia
Despite a couple of ‘accidents’ which caused some of the canoes to capsize, great fun was had as students went sailing, canoeing and fishing. These activities were new and exciting for many of the students, and proved to be very popular.
My favourite part of camp was sailing. It was a great feeling, being out on the lake with my friends with no distractions of technology.
Matilda
After these activities (which some might say they sailed through), students faced the challenge of the 12 metre rock climbing and abseiling walls. While some students had a strong grasp of these tasks and took to them easily, others struggled to overcome their fears. It was heartwarming to be surrounded by the cheers of the students on the ground as they encouraged their peers.
The Cru leaders were able to use activities like this to challenge how we think about our relationship with God and to increase our understanding of His character. In the same way that we create our own goals based on our own abilities, we should not be tempted to compare our God-given journey with the journey of others. As the harnesses and ropes kept us safe, God is even more trustworthy and will always be with us to catch us when we fall. What a wonderful reminder as we enter the Christmas season and contemplate the depth of God’s love for us and the lengths to which He will go for our salvation.
The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand.
Psalm 37:23-24
Reminders
- Scholastic BookClub is still happening! You can peruse the catalogue and order your books online by using this link: scholastic.com.au/loop until Monday 9 August. Books can be delivered to your house (for a fee), or sent to school for free. We will contact you when they arrive, and you can collect them by parking at the gate and calling the Office.
- Parents are reminded to read the Google Meet Guidelines for Appropriate Use. In particular, please note that for privacy and protection reasons, no images of other students or their work should be captured or shared outside Google Classroom. Students (and parents) must not take photos, screenshots or record the meeting.
- In light of current conditions, all off-site events/excursions on our calendar in August have been cancelled or postponed. The Book Week Parade (26 Aug) and Healthy Harold incursion (30 Aug – 1 Sept) may still be able to proceed pending the lifting of restrictions. We will continue to keep you updated as the situation changes, and look forward to seeing you all again soon.
- Unfortunately, the Bible Society Masterclass for Year 9 – 11 will not go ahead. We look forward to participating in this valuable event next year.
- Sadly, the 5/6 Canberra Snowy Camp also cannot proceed. Remember to check the Event Updates on the School@Home webpage for all the latest changes.
Prayer & Praise
- Give thanks to God for His provision and protection. Give thanks for His authority and sovereignty over all things.
- Pray for our world, as many other countries suffer greatly under the weight of the pandemic. Pray for our country, our leaders and our people. Pray for peace and hope as we wait to be released from this trial. Pray for Christians around the world, that we would speak and act with faith, hope and love. Petition the Lord with repentance for mercy, healing and protection for all nations and people.
- Pray for the Walker family, with mother Christine undergoing Chemotherapy. Pray for peace, confidence, provision, unity and healing.
- Continue to pray for the Miller family and for Josh. Give thanks for his progress. Pray for wisdom and healing as he continues his journey.
- Give thanks for all our families and staff as they teach through School@Home. Pray for protection over our community; that the Lord would be our unity, encouragement and peace and that we would communicate that to each other, holding each other up.
Everyone is welcome to attend our next prayer meeting which will be held online on Wednesday 18 August, 7 – 7:30pm. Please join us!
Secondary Sausage Sizzle Tomorrow!
Tomorrow, students will be holding a sausage sizzle for Secondary students and staff (sorry Primary students!).
Sausage sandwiches will be $3 and drinks will be $2. Come to the Food Technology room at lunch time to purchase.
For all students, Zooper Doopers will be sold at the Hall during recess and lunch for $1. Don’t forget to also wear non-uniform and bring a gold coin!
All money raised will be donated to Compassion and Operation Christmas Child. Thank you all very much for your support.