WORDS THAT SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES

On Tuesday 11th August, I attended the Installation of the new Archbishop of Hobart, Tony Ireland, at St Mary’s Cathedral in Hobart. What follows is just one small section of his Homily during the Mass. It is the part that most resonated with me. Indeed, it nearly brought me to tears — not because it was particularly profound, moving, or inspiring, but because it was so human, humble, and healing.

So for the Newsletter Reflection this week, I offer not my own thoughts, but the words of His Grace, Archbishop Tony Ireland, verbatim. His words speak for themselves.

From the Homily of His Grace, Archbishop Tony Ireland, Tuesday 11th August at St Mary's Cathedral

This moment is not new. It is ancient and richly graced.

Alongside Adelaide, the Archdiocese of Hobart was established in 1842, carved out from Sydney's early Church. Memo to Archbishop Fisher and Bishop Meagher, Sydney became a Metropolitan sea because of Hobart and Adelaide.

From convict chaplaincies to schools and parishes scattered across this island, Tasmania's Catholic story has been one of quiet fidelity, courageous perseverance, and grace upon grace.

To stand here is to stand in the footprints of missionaries, religious laity and families, often poor, often struggling but always faithful. We honour this history today with sacred objects that span our story.

We will use at Mass the chalice of Bishop Wilson, the first Bishop of Hobart. I am wearing the pectoral cross of Archbishop Hayden, and I'm carrying today the silver crosier of Archbishop Young. And whilst we cherish our past, we must also lean into the question: ‘How will we be faithful in our own God-given time?’

The Word of God that we've just heard offers us an answer. In the First Reading from the Book of Wisdom, we hear of those who admire the cosmos, yet failed to know its creator: “If they were capable of acquiring enough knowledge to investigate the world, how have they been so slow to find its master?”

On the Mornington Peninsula, where I served until just recently, there’s a plaque that reads — and it paraphrases that Book of Wisdom — and it says, “If you enjoy the view, praise the God who made it.”

How desperately our world needs that message. We live in an age of AI and unprecedented brilliance, yet one tarnished by spiritual famine. Even here at the ends of the Earth, faith is often misunderstood, misrepresented or forgotten. Ours is a task of reawakening awe, rekindling wonder, and restoring the sacred. This is the mission.

Again, Pope Francis, quoting Pope John Paul II, in his Apostolic Exhortation to us in this part of the world, Ecclesia in Oceania, wrote this:

“All renewal in the Church must have mission as its go, if it is not to fall prey to a kind of ecclesial introversion. That is the church for which we must strive: outward facing, radiant with joy, walking with those at the margins; the unbaptised, the searching, the hurt, and the forgotten.”

St Peter spoke to us tenderly through the Second Reading: “Bow down then before the power of God. Unload your worries onto Him, since He's looking after you.”

None of us — Bishop, Priest, or faithful — bears the weight alone. God is our caretaker. Our task is humble service, secured in trust. St Peter’s words reach from their time into this moment: “The God of all grace will comfort, strengthen and support you… us.”

Dear Parents and Carers,

SALUTATION

Grace to you and peace.

WITNESSING A HISTORIC MOMENT IN THE CHURCH OF TASMANIA

This past Tuesday, 12 August, I had the privilege of representing St Thomas More’s Catholic School at the Installation Ceremony of Archbishop Anthony (Tony) Ireland at St Mary’s Cathedral, Hobart. I was joined by our proud student representative, Samuel Mannion (Grade 5), as we took part in a truly historic moment for the Catholic Church in Tasmania.

The Cathedral was filled to capacity, with every Catholic school in the state represented by its Principal and a student. The sense of unity, faith, and shared purpose was palpable as our Catholic education community gathered to witness Archbishop Tony formally begin his ministry as shepherd of the Archdiocese of Hobart.

It was also personally moving for me to share the occasion with my son, James Douglas (Grade 6), who was selected by Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School to attend on their behalf. To stand together in the Cathedral for such a significant milestone in our faith journey is a memory I will treasure.

Archbishop Tony’s humility, gentleness, and evident depth of thought were clear throughout the ceremony. His reputation as a man of service was matched by his long-standing commitment to Catholic education. As a tenured and active member of the National Catholic Education Commission, he brings with him a deep investment in the mission of our schools and the formation of our students. This day was not simply a formal beginning, but a powerful reminder of the faith, mission, and ministry that unite our schools and parishes. We look forward to welcoming him to St Thomas More’s in the years ahead as he continues to inspire and guide our community.

PREPS AT THE TOWN LIBRARY!

This past Monday, 11 August, our Prep students set off on an exciting city adventure, visiting some of Launceston’s most iconic spaces. Their first stop was the Town Library, where they were warmly welcomed by the Librarian, enjoyed a guided introduction to the library, and listened to a special story. Students were then given time to explore the children’s section and discover the many resources available to them.

With the weather on our side, the Preps ventured into Civic Square, taking time to sketch the surrounding buildings and public spaces, capturing the unique shapes and colours of the cityscape. The exploration continued with a walk to City Park, where students delighted in the gardens, open spaces, and the chance to connect with nature in the heart of the city.

The excursion was more than just a fun day out; it was an opportunity for our youngest learners to engage with their community, practise observation skills, and experience the joy of exploring new environments.

A big thank you to the parent helpers and staff who accompanied the students, making this memorable day possible. Our Preps returned to school tired, happy, and with sketchbooks full of creativity.

KINDER IN THE DARK - A NIGHT TO REMEMBER

Kinder in the Dark is back! In the many Kinder tours that I have led in the past four years with new and prospective families, we are joined by two current Grade 6 students who provide the student perspective, and are the real leaders of those tours.

When we come to the coupe de grace – the Kinder classroom – at the end of the tour, I always ask our Grade 6 students to share with the family their favourite memory of Kinder. And the most popular answer, by far, is Kinder in the Dark!

This week, our Kinder classrooms were transformed into a place of wonder and quiet enchantment as we welcomed families for Kinder in the Dark – on Tuesday 11th August for Kinder Thomas and Wednesday 12th August for Kinder More. In the soft glow of torches and the comfort of pyjamas, the familiar rooms became something altogether different – an adventure waiting to happen. And it wasn’t just the children who came dressed for bedtime… parents also arrived in pyjamas, proving once and for all that comfort beats fashion every time – although there was some fierce competition for “Best Slippers”.

Children led their parents through treasure hunts to find their visual diaries, proudly turning the pages of a year’s worth of drawings and creations. They showed off their favourite corners of the classroom, shared in simple craft activities, and played gentle games in the twilight of the Kinder garden. Later, everyone gathered on the floor for a slideshow of Kinder moments, a bedtime story, and a quiet night-time prayer – the perfect ending to an evening brimming with connection, curiosity, and the kind of joy that only comes when you see the world through a child’s eyes.

Our heartfelt thanks go to our wonderful Kinder teachers, Mrs Wood and Mrs Edwards, whose creativity and care turn this annual tradition into something truly unforgettable.

I was fortunate to attend part of the Kinder More evening, and it is easy to see why our Grade 6 students, without hesitation, name Kinder in the Dark as their most special, precious, and cherished memory from Kinder. Some moments stay with you forever – and this is one of them.

FINAL GREETING

May the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

God bless,

Mr Casimir Douglas

Principal

On Wednesday, Grade 5/6 students were treated to an online workshop with renowned  Australian author Tristan Bancks. Tristan’s books such as Scar Town, Cop & Robber, The Fall, Detention, Two Wolves and the Tom Weekly series are very popular in the STM Library and are enjoyed by children and teens all around the world. Many of his books have won or been shortlisted for various awards including CBCA Book of the Year Awards, the Prime Minister’s Literary Awards, YABBA, KOALA and the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards.  

Tristan spoke to students about his writing process, how he researches and organises his stories and how he finds the inspiration for his excellent stories.  He showed us various book trailers for his novels and explained how he uses music and technology to foster his creativity.  This was an excellent opportunity for our students to connect with a favourite author and many have been inspired to include some of Tristan’s tips in their own writing. 

Rebecca Thomas

Librarian

Dear Parents and Carers,

Please note, if your child/ren will be absent from school for a period longer than two weeks (10 days) you will need to complete a Request for Student Absence form. This can also be found on the school website under the 'Our School' and 'Forms' tabs. You will need to forward this to the office, the Principal can then approve the leave. 

Also as a reminder, if your child/ren will be absent from school you are able to complete this absence on your Compass app under 'Attendance'.

These lost items have been found and brought in to the office. If they are yours please feel free to come and collect.

Looking for a joyful, educational start for your little one? Our Joeys Playgroup at St Thomas More’s Catholic School is the place to be!

✅ FREE sessions for children aged birth to 4!
✅ Fun, learning & play in a school environment!
✅ Run by experienced, accredited educators
✅ Tuesdays 9:00am - 10:30am during term time!

Come along to Josephite Hall and watch your child’s curiosity and confidence grow! Plus, connect with other local families and share in the joy of learning together!

No bookings required — just turn up & have fun!

St Thomas More’s Catholic School
Every Tuesday (School Term)