What a fantastic day of celebration, sharing of cultures, respect, love and harmony at St Joseph’s School Charlton, last Wednesday March 19.

Year 6 leader, Sophie, articulated at the morning Mass of celebration, the fitting connection between the Feast Day of St Joseph the worker and of Harmony Week.

St Joseph’s Feast Day is a special day when we remember St Joseph, who was kind, caring, and always looked after his family. He showed us how important it is to help others, be welcoming, and make sure everyone feels safe and happy. St Joseph teaches us to be good friends and to include everyone, just like he did.

Harmony Day is another special day where we celebrate how different and unique everyone is. It’s all about showing kindness, respect, and making sure no one feels left out.

These two special occasions fit together because both St Joseph’s Feast Day and Harmony Week remind us how important it is to care for others, include everyone, and make sure everyone feels like they belong.

Happy St Joseph’s Day & Happy Harmony Week!

During Mass, specially commissioned crosses for the foyer and Multi-purpose Room were blessed by Fr Gerry Prunty. The crosses are beautifully hand-crafted in timber, paying homage to our patron Saint, carpenter Joseph.

Students, dressed in cultural dress or wearing a touch of orange (the colour for Harmony Week) enjoyed mixed-age activities and treats throughout the day – goody bags, a zooper-dooper, made reciprocal key chains for a friend, created colourful people silhouettes and learnt more about St Joseph.

The highlight of the day was the shared meal, lovingly prepared by our families associated with India, Croatia, Philippines, Vietnam, Timor-Leste, Egypt and Australia! We are so grateful to our families and staff who made the day so special. Students loved hearing about the different dishes and eagerly tried them all! We finished the day with full bellies, full hearts and a renewed understanding of belonging, welcome and harmony.

Mary Hogan – Principal