EDUCATION IN FAITH

Religious Education at St Mary of the Cross Catholic Primary School

As a Catholic school, St Mary of the Cross is dedicated to promoting and living out the values of the Gospel. We model Mary MacKillop’s servant leadership, to nurture compassionate and respectful individuals who translate their beliefs into action.

Religious Education Program

The Religious Education program is guided by the Religious Education Frameworks (currently under review by Melbourne Archdiocese of Catholic Schools) and supported by Pedagogy of Encounter. The program is designed to nurture each child’s relationship with God and recognises the family as the primary educator in faith, building on the unique experiences each child brings. Classroom teachers, in collaboration with the Religious Education Leader, plan units of work that deepen students’ knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith.

Prayer and Liturgy

Prayer and liturgy are central to the Religious Education program at St Mary of the Cross Catholic Primary School. All members of the school community regularly engage in prayer and liturgical celebrations. The whole school gathers to celebrate Mass on significant feast days throughout the year, and each year level is scheduled to attend Mass at least twice per term.

Each learning community begins the day with Christian Meditation and Daily Prayer to establish a reflective and prayerful tone. Prayer also forms part of the daily routine through lunch and afternoon dismissal prayers, promoting ongoing reflection and connection with God.

Liturgies and prayer services are thoughtfully planned in alignment with the liturgical calendar, feast days, school events, and Religious Education learning units. Students are encouraged to actively participate and lead prayer during assemblies, classroom celebrations, and Community Masses.

All learning areas include a dedicated prayer space, complete with Bibles, religious icons, and sacred objects. Prayerful displays throughout classrooms and shared spaces further reflect the spiritual life of the school community.