YEAR ONE CHAMPION:

Tommy the Turtle-

Preferential Treatment for the

Poor and Vulnerable

This Catholic Church teaches that caring for the poor and vulnerable is essential to our faith. Jesus calls us to place their needs before our own and to treat them with dignity and compassion. Each day, we are faced with choices large and small that either lift others up or add to their struggles.

One person can dramatically affect the lives of others. Catholic Social Teaching reminds us to embrace everyone, especially those most in need: the hungry, the homeless, the lonely, the sick, or those who feel excluded. We are called to treat each person with love, just as God loves us.

The Gospel of Matthew reminds us of Jesus' thoughts on the Catholic Social Teaching of Preferential Treatment of the Poor and Vulnerable through the following scripture passage: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40)

Some of the examples Year 1 gave as to what they can do to promote

the Preferential Treatment of the Poor and Vulnerable just like Tommy teaches them:

At school, we can live this out by:

• Supporting food and clothing drives for families in need.

• Participating in initiatives such as St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal or Caritas Project Compassion. Also our Fun Fair at the end of this term and other Mission Efforts.

• Reaching out in friendship to classmates who may feel left out or need encouragement.

• Using our voices to advocate for fairness and kindness in our community.

At home, we can live this out by:

• Donating toys, clothes, or food to those who have less. No is the perfect time to do this in preparation for our Fun Fair.

• Choosing to share rather than waste food or resources.

• Offering prayers as a family for people experiencing hardship.

• Welcoming and including others in acts of hospitality, such as inviting a neighbour in need to share a meal.

The principles of Catholic Social Teaching help us turn this love into action. They serve as a guide for the Church today and as a beacon of hope for society. By putting the needs of the poor and vulnerable first, we walk the path of justice and holiness that Jesus calls us to follow.

TIME FOR A CLEAN OUT AT HOME!

Do you have any children’s books, games or toys taking up space at home that aren’t needed anymore? St Benedict’s are holding a “Fun Fair” on Friday 26th September, the last day of term, and are asking for donations of these items. We just ask that they be in good condition. There’s not much fun in playing a game with broken pieces or reading a book with missing pages. Items can be brought into school from Monday 15/9/25 - 25/9/25. Tommy the Turtle would love your help!

St Benedict’s Mini Vinnies and Mrs March thank you for your support

FAMILY PARISH MASS

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those families who came along last Saturday Night to join in the Parish Family Mass at Our Lady of Good Counsel West Wallsend. I am sure it has been a while since this beautiful old Church has seen so many young families in attendance. The hospitality was super delicious and I would like to thank th parishioners for working so hard to make us all feel welcome. I do know that the students who attended the Children's Liturgy really enjoyed themselves and the opportunity to hear the Word of God and to talk about it in a way they could understand.