# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Raising Fathers 2023 - Catholic Weekly Ad 180mmx128mm v1.0

# data[].attributes.body
Up & Down

Another cup challenge and perfect for larger groups! Divide the group into two teams:

one will be team UP who try to turn all the cups facing up

the other team DOWN who try to turn the cups facing down

Set a timer. When it stops, the team with the most cups facing their way wins.

Beware – this one is high energy!

# data[].attributes.body
All the feast days of Mary mark the great mysteries of her life and her part in the work of redemption.

The Assumption completes God's work in her since it was not fitting that the flesh that had given life to God himself should ever undergo corruption. The Assumption is God's crowning of His work as Mary ends her earthly life and enters eternity. The feast turns our eyes in that direction, where we will follow when our earthly life is over.

# data[].attributes.body
We will be starting SPaR sessions in Term 3 Week 7

# data[].attributes.body
On the 6th of August, we celebrate the feast of Transfiguration of the Lord.

All three of the Synoptic Gospels record the event of the Lord’s Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1–8, Mark 9:2–8, Luke 9:28–36).

Before the Transfiguration of the Lord, Jesus had began revealing to His disciples His impending fate—His journey to Jerusalem to suffer and die.

This is the context of the Feast of the Transfiguration we celebrate today. First, Jesus proclaimed the triumph of His Church over evil. Second, He informed them that this victory would be achieved through His own suffering and death. Although the first message is encouraging, the second one is challenging to accept. According to the Gospels, Jesus allowed His disciples about a week to grapple with these teachings, a period that must have been tough for them.

Understanding their struggle, Jesus took His three closest companions, Peter, James, and John, up a high mountain. There He was transfigured before them, radiating pure white light, conversing with Moses and Elijah, and being affirmed in His identity by the Father.

This event was likely meant to reinforce His disciples’ faith after a week of pondering Jesus’ foretold suffering and death, along with His exhortation that they must follow Him. The Transfiguration affirmed Jesus’ divinity and His relationship with the revered figures of Moses and Elijah. Furthermore, the Father in Heaven confirmed Jesus as His divine Son with whom He was well pleased.

After the Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus, these three Apostles shared their experience of the Transfiguration, fortifying others in the faith. This story is still shared today to strengthen us as we bear our own crosses.

# data[].attributes.body
Stack Attack – With only 36 plastic cups, see how fast you can stack all of the cups into a pyramid and then unstack them, making a single column again.

I wonder who will be the fastest family member?

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rasIvjB5xVY

# data[].attributes.body
St. Joachim is the father of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. Although he is not mentioned in the Bible, his story appears in the apocryphal Gospel of James.

St. Joachim and his wife, St. Anne, prayed fervently for many years that they would be blessed with a child in spite of their advancing age. According to tradition, an angel appeared to St. Joachim in a vision one day when he was away from home. The angel promised that the holy couple’s prayers would be answered. When St. Joachim returned home, his wife told him that an angel had also appeared to her to bestow the same good news.

St. Joachim is the patron saint of fathers, grandfathers, grandparents, linen traders, cabinet makers and married couples. He is often pictured in art as an older man with St. Anne and the Virgin Mary at his side. He also is often shown holding a scroll or book to represent linen makers or with doves to represent peace. His name in Hebrew means “God prepares.”

# data[].attributes.body
Tradition holds that St. Anne, or Ann, is the mother of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus. There is no mention of Anne in the bible. Non-biblical books from the early Christian centuries acknowledge Mary’s parents as Joachim and Anne. These sources claim that Joachim and Anne were childless for many years of their marriage. The angel Gabriel appeared to them separately and declared that they would in fact bear a child who must be dedicated to God. Hence, Anne became the mother of our Blessed Virgin Mary.

Made universal by Pope Gregory XIII, the church celebrates her feast day along with Joachim, on July 26th. St. Anne, Hebrew for Hannah, meaning “grace”, eventually became the patron saint of married women and childless couples

St. Anne is often depicted as a seated woman with a book upon her lap and the child Mary leaning against her, eager to learn. This image tells us what we know of St. Anne, as well as the reason St. Anne is honored to this day. St. Anne had a unique position in which God entrusted to her the task of bringing up Our Lady in a holy and virtuous way. While teaching Mary to cook, take care of her home, and look after her family and neighbors, St. Anne modeled for the Virgin Mary a life of prayer, love, and humility. In doing so, St. Anne prepared Our Lady to receive Our Lord not only into her heart, but into her very body, becoming the Mother of God.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeERW29GBh8

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Songs and stories with kindergarten teacher, Deb

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Kids bedtime stories: The Very Clever Bear. By Nick Bland. Read aloud by Kindergarten Teacher, Deb.

# data[].attributes.body
Put your art skills (or lack of them) to the test with a drawing game. Take turns putting on a blindfold. Grab paper and a pencil, and draw different prompts, like “a dog” or “your favorite food.” Then, when everyone has taken a turn, compare your drawings to see whose artwork best matched the prompt or led to the funniest results.

# data[].attributes.body
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is a FREE book gifting program devoted to inspiring a love of reading in the hearts of children everywhere.

Children that are eligible and registered for the program will receive a free, high-quality, age-appropriate book in the mail each month from birth to age five.

Who is eligible?

Children born from 1 January 2021 and living in the Cumberland Local Government Area are eligible.

Register a child for this free book gifting program.
https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/imagination-library

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Dolly Parton Imagination Library | Cumberland City Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In partnership with United Way, NSW Health and proudly funded by NSW Government, babies born in 2021, 2022 and 2023 have the opportunity to receive a free book every month from birth to 5 years.

# data[].attributes.body
When: Saturday 19 August to Sunday 27 August, 9am to 5pm

Where: Auburn Botanic Gardens - located corner of Chisholm and Chiswick Roads in Auburn

More Information: https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/sydneycherryblossomfestival?utm_source=banner&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=cherry

# data[].attributes.body
Apostle of the Apostles" is the title given Mary Magdalene by St Thomas Aquinas. Her name comes from her home town of Magdala, a fishing village on the western shore of Lake Tiberias. St Luke the Evangelist tells us, in Chapter 8 of his Gospel, how Jesus went from town to town announcing the Good News of the Kingdom of God, and how the Twelve Apostles were with Him together with some women who had been healed of evil spirits or infirmities, and were serving them. Among these was a certain "Mary, called the Magdalene, from whom seven demons came out."

Mary Magdalene appears in the Gospels in the most dramatic moment of Jesus' life, when she accompanies Him to Calvary and, along with other women, observes Him from afar. She is still there when Joseph of Arimathea places the body of Jesus in the tomb, which is closed with a stone. And on the morning of the first day of the week, she returns to the tomb, finds the stone rolled away, and runs to warn Peter and John. They in turn hurry to the empty tomb and discover that the body of the Lord is missing.

Mary Magdalene is the first among the women following Jesus to proclaim Him as having overcome death. She is the first to announce the joyful message of Easter. But she also proved she was among those who loved Him most when she stood at the foot of the Cross on Mount Calvary together with Mary, His Mother, and the disciple, St. John. She did not deny him or run away in fear as the other disciples did, but remained close to Him every moment, up to and including the tomb.

# data[].attributes.body
Have a go at some speed challenge games as a family.
Here are some suggestions. I wonder why will win in your family?

1. Penny Run – Set up some tape on the floor, 3 metres apart. See how fast you can get a penny from one end to the other with only blowing through a straw. For smaller kids, set up a shorter start and finish line on the table and see how many pom-poms they can get across in one minute.

2. Stack Attack – With only 36 plastic cups, see how fast you can stack all of the cups into a pyramid and then unstack them, making a single column again.

3. Suck It Up – You’ll need straws, goldfish, and two plates. Players have one minute to see how many fish they can transfer from one plate to another with the suction from the straw and no hands.

4. Roll-On, Buddy – Try to roll a potato, sweet potato or onion across the floor from one side of the room to the other…using only your nose.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9mryuEKkKc

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
'The Rainbow Fish' read by Ernest Borgnine

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k9AC_pGINIY

# data[].attributes.body
NAIDOC Week is an opportunity to celebrate the significance of our Aboriginal heritage and the important contribution that the Aboriginal population make in our community and across our vibrant City.

Here are the details of local NAIDOC events during the school Holidays which are free

NAIDOC Family Fun Day- Bankstown
BBQ | ​When: 10am-3pm, Saturday 1 July Where: Bankstown City Gardens Restwell Street, Bankstown NSW 2200
No registration required, simply show up!
More info: https://www.cbcity.nsw.gov.au/community/cultural-services/aboriginal-torres-strait-islanders/naidoc-week-family-fun-day-2023

NAIDOC- Family Fun Day- Fairfield
When: Tuesday 4 July, 11am - 3pm
Where: Gate 6, Event Square, The Fairfield Showground - 443 Smithfield Rd Prairiewood
What: Featuring children's activities, stallholders, BBQ, performers, arts and crafts and information displays.
More Info:  https://www.fairfieldcity.nsw.gov.au/Eventbrite/2023-NAIDOC-Family-Fun-Day-633041573387

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
council’s flagship naidoc family fun day event celebrating aboriginal and torres strait islander culture

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Council's flagship NAIDOC Family Fun Day event celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture, heritage and history!

# data[].attributes.body
The image of Our Lady of Perpetual Help is an icon, painted on wood, and seems to have originated around the thirteenth century. The icon depicts our Blessed Mother Mary, under the title “Mother of God,” holding the Child Jesus.

The Archangels Michael and Gabriel, hovering in the upper corners, hold the instruments of the Passion– St. Michael (in the left corner) holds the spear, the wine-soaked sponge, and the crown of thorns, and St. Gabriel (in the right corner) holds the cross and the nails.

The intent of the artist was to portray the Child Jesus contemplating the vision of His future Passion.  The anguish He feels is shown by the loss of one of His sandals.  Nevertheless, the icon also conveys the triumph of Christ over sin and death, symbolised by the golden background (a sign of the glory of the resurrection) and the manner in which the angels hold the instruments, i.e. like trophies gathered up from Calvary on Easter morning.

In a very beautiful way, the Child Jesus grasps the hand of the Blessed Mother.  He seeks comfort from His mother, as He sees the instruments of His passion.  The position of Mary’s hands– both holding the Child Jesus (who seems like a small adult) and presenting Him to us– convey the reality of our Lord’s incarnation, that He is true God who became also true man.

In iconography, Mary here is represented as the one who guides us to the Redeemer.  She also is our Help, who intercedes on our behalf with her Son.  The star painted on Mary’s veil, centered on her forehead, highlights her role in the plan of salvation as both the Mother of God and our Mother

# data[].attributes.body
Another creative indoor activity for all family members is making origami. This paper folding art has been around for centuries.
You can find some great videos here to get you started
https://mumslittleexplorers.com/easy-origami-for-kids-instructions/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
From flowers to boas, hearts, frogs, and much more, origami is a great way to keep kids occupied and having fun at home. Here you can find a range of easy origami for kids with step by step instructions to help you bring their creations to life.

Easy Origami for Kids with Step by Step Instructions

Looking for fun things to do at home with kids? Why not try the century old paper folding art origami! Origami is fun for any age, and it is especially fun for kids when they can do it on their own.

These simple origami activities below are perfect for primary school kids, but if you have younger children that can follow instructions well, you can also help them along.

Older kids will also have fun with it too, and even parents. It is such a great way to get creative and have fun for any age.

What is Origami?

Origami is the art of folding paper into shapes and figures. History suggests that it originated in China however became popular in Japan In Japanese. "ori" means folding and "gami" means paper.

Origami is a great hobby for all ages. It can range from basic origami for kids and beginners, to more complex and realistic models that you couldn't think were even possible.

From hats and boats, to flowers, animals, and more origami can keep you busy for hours on end.

What you need for Origami?

To start with you will need some paper.

While it is recommended that you use origami paper, don't stress if you don't have any or you are unable to find it. You can use any paper really as long as it is thin enough to fold.

Some origami activities will need different shapes so you may need some scissors too. But most origami for kids use a simple square.

Get creative with these videos of easy origami for kids with step by step instructions. Let us know your favourite in the comments or tag @mumslittleexplorers in your social posts!

10 Easy Origami for Kids and Beginners

Find here 10 simple and easy origami for kids and beginners to get you started with this fun paper art. Good luck, we would love to see what you make!

1. Easy Origami Flower

Here is an easy origami flower for kids to make with step by step instructions.

Stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours. Use different colours to make a whole bunch of flowers for special events like Mother's Day 🙂

2. Easy Origami Heart

Here is an easy origami heart for kids to make with step by step instructions.

This is also a great valentines day activity for kids. Stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours. Let us know how you go.

3. Easy Origami Bird

Here is an easy origami bird for kids to make with step by step instructions. The origami bird is simple enough for most kids to do alone, but some young ones may need a little help.

Stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours. Make a few in different colours and make the birds flock together.

4. Easy Origami Frog

Here is an easy origami frog for kids to make with step by step instructions. Use green paper for best results but if you don't have any green don't worry, any colour will do.

Stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours. Let us see your origami frog jump along!

5. Easy Origami Fish

Here is an easy origami fish for kids to make with step by step instructions. You can make origami fish for kids in any colour you want, they all look great.

Stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours. Use paper with different designs for coloured fish.

6. Easy Origami Star

Here is an easy origami star for kids to make with step by step instructions. Origami stars can also be made in different colours.

Stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours. Make lots of origami stars to bright up your sky!

7. Easy Origami Boat

Here is an easy origami boat for kids to make with step by step instructions. Origami boats can be made in any colour.

Stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours. See if your origami boat can float in the water!

8. Easy Origami Dog

Here is an easy origami dog for kids to make with step by step instructions. Use a marker to mark the eyes and nose.

Make sure to stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours. Use markers to draw the eyes and nose.

9. Easy Origami Rabbit

Here is an easy origami rabbit for kids to make with step by step instructions.

This is a great Easter activity. Stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours.

10. Easy Origami Box with Lid

Here is an easy origami box with a lid for kids to make with step by step instructions. Your origami box can be used to store special things.

Stop the video after each fold to follow along and make yours.

Kids Activities to do at Home

Origami is a fun and fairly easy activity that kids can do, that parents can also join in too. This paper folding art makes a great hobby for all ages. Hopefully you were able to use our easy origami for kids videos with step by step instructions to make some origami with your kids

If you are looking for more fun ways to keep the kids entertained, make sure to check out our long list of 50 Things to do at home with kids! You are sure to find some great ideas.

Read next:

Follow Mum's Little Explorers on FACEBOOK for more inspiration!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Easy Origami For Kids - Step By Step Instructions Video

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
From flowers to boats, hearts, frogs, and much more, find a range of easy origami for kids with step by step instructions.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8OB7--e_jw

# data[].attributes.body
Here is a great song to sing together that reminds us how to safely buckle into the car
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2K34ctfdHBU

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Buckle Up and Be Safe! Road Safety with Transport for NSW | The Wiggles

# data[].attributes.headline
New Podcast from the Archdiocese of Sydney 

# data[].attributes.subject
New Podcast from the Archdiocese of Sydney 

# data[].attributes.body
Whether learning more about the writers of the Gospels, the unique personal stories of the saints, or the beauty of ecumenism and interfaith dialogue, each podcast is presented in an engaging,
accessible way relevant to the needs of school communities.

Here is the Spotify list to access it https://open.spotify.com/show/6VlI8DSYzxqqKq0iF406lM?si=c892f8e240ff470d

More information can be found here https://www.catholicweekly.com.au/category/podcasts/sydney-catholic-schools/

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
RE Search Episode 9: Jesus The True Vine

# data[].attributes.body
Saint John the Baptist is remembered as a prophet, the forerunner of Christ and the man who baptized Jesus. He was known for calling people to turn away from sin, and first recognizing Jesus for who he was. Scholars believe that Saint John was born approximately six months before the birth of Christ.

The saint lived as a hermit for many years in the desert of Judea. He began to publicly breach on the banks of the Jordan River at the age of 30. He educated large crowds in regards to the need for baptism and forgiveness to redeem one’s sins. One day while baptizing and preaching John encountered Jesus who came to be Baptized. John at first refused saying he was unworthy but relented. Following the Baptism of Jesus by John a voice was heard from the heavens proclaiming “this is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased.”

# data[].attributes.body
Have fun and teach about aerodynamics! Each person folds their own paper plane design and then you compete to see whose plane can go the farthest.

Tell us how far you managed to throw yours!

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSRWqo_ZmJg

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Magical Little Minds - Read Along Storytime

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Kids Book Read Aloud Story 📚Pig the Pug by Aaron Blabey 🐾

# data[].attributes.body
Praying together as a family and keeping a family prayer journal is a great way for all members to see the personal and powerful hand of God.  Praying in a round-robin style is great for those just starting out.  In round-robin prayers, one person starts off the topic by praying one brief sentence.  Each member then adds a brief sentence about what is on their heart regarding that topic.

Write your family prayer in the prayer journal and upload your prayer to share with our community.

# data[].attributes.body
The human heart has long been a symbol of love. At one time, it was viewed as the source of all human activity—intellectual and emotional. It has also metaphorically symbolised the centre of things, such as the heart of a relationship or the heart of a city. It could also represent the character of a person, such as describing someone as having a good heart.

Devotion to the Sacred Heart is devotion to Jesus and his love. It is a sign or a symbol of both the divine and human love that Jesus has for his Father and for us. It also symbolises the interior life of Jesus which led to his willingness to lay down his life for us.

It is the feast of the love of the God-man who was born, rose, and lives forever.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.sydneycatholic.org/casys/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Walk-with-Christ-2023-Trifold-v2.0s.pdf

# data[].attributes.body
This weeks challenge is a whole family game of Balloon Tennis.
Create an open space in your home and you have a court! All you’ll need is a balloon and some creativity for a net (think pillows, chairs, etc.).

Upload a picture of your home made tennis court to share with us all!

# data[].attributes.body
St. Norbert of Xanten is the patron saint of priests and peace. This designation stems from his life as a priest, his commitment to fostering peace and reconciliation, and his deep devotion to God.

St. Norbert was a priest who lived in the 12th century, and he is known for his dedication to his faith and his commitment to serving God. He was a strong advocate for peace and reconciliation, and he worked tirelessly to bring people together and to foster understanding and harmony. He was also known for his deep devotion to God, and for his commitment to living a life of holiness and piety.

In recognition of his dedication to his faith, his commitment to fostering peace and reconciliation, and his deep devotion to God, St. Norbert was made the patron saint of priests and peace. Those who venerate him believe that he provides a special grace and protection to priests and to all those who work to promote peace and understanding.

Prayer to St. Norbert of Xanten

Dear St. Norbert of Xanten, you were known for your deep faith, your love of God, and your commitment to spreading the gospel. I turn to you today, asking for your intercession and guidance as I seek to grow in my own faith.

Help me to deepen my relationship with God and to live a life that brings glory to His name. May I always be guided by His light, and may I have the courage to share the good news of the gospel with others. Amen.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btFCtMhF3iI

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Very Hungry Caterpillar - Read Aloud Picture Book | Brightly Storytime

# data[].attributes.headline
National Reconciliation Week- Week 6 Challenge

# data[].attributes.subject
National Reconciliation Week- Week 6 Challenge

# data[].attributes.body
This week is National Reconciliation Week.  National Reconciliation Week (NRW) is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia.
Here are some activities you may like to enjoy as a family.

1. Make an artwork together as a family. I have attached a suggested artwork you could make together.
If you make an artwork, please share it as a comment so we can all see it!

2. Start your day with an acknowledgement of Country as family. Here is one made by Sydney Catholic Schools.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1ce-O2AIqg

3. Enjoy reading a dream time story together.

Here are some you can listen to

Tiddlick the Frog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0y3Ta5xcKV4

The Platypus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDl5QwAR8DI

The Goanna: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWvoTZxvEs8

# data[].attributes.headline
Casting Crowns- Praise you in this Storm

# data[].attributes.subject
Casting Crowns- Praise you in this Storm

# data[].attributes.body
This is one of my favourite Christian bands called Casting Crowns. This song is called praise you in this storm.

If you are in the midst of having a challenging time, may this song lift your spirits and encourage you during this time.

Psalm 121:1-2: "I lift my eyes up to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of Heaven and Earth"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Casting Crowns - Praise You In This Storm (Live from YouTube Space New York)

# data[].attributes.headline
Maximus Men's Ministry- Weekly Gathering 

# data[].attributes.subject
Maximus Men's Ministry- Weekly Gathering 

# data[].attributes.body
Maximus Men's Ministry has been created by and for men through Sydney Catholic Diocese. Each week they have a gathering for Men weekly on Monday nights.

Meeting weekly every Monday with Fr. Joseph Gedeon all men are welcome to join us.
Contact: 02 9709 3223
Email: admin@stjerome.org.au
https://www.facebook.com/stjpunchbowl

Time
(Monday) 6.00pm – 8.30pm
6.00pm – Adoration and Confession available
7.00pm – Holy Mass followed by talk in the Parish Hall

Location
St Jerome Catholic Church
2 Turner St, Punchbowl NSW 2196

# data[].attributes.body
Mary Help of Christians is the Patroness Saint of Australia and we celebrated her feast day on May 24th.  Mary Help of Christians is one of the many names used to refer to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Mary is a helper because of closeness to Jesus and because she is able to intervene on behalf of us through prayer.

Here is a prayer we can say together

Almighty God, deepen in our hearts

our love of Mary Help of Christians.

Through her prayers and under her protection,

may the light of Christ shine over our land.

May Australia be granted harmony, justice and peace.

Grant wisdom to our leaders and integrity to our citizens.

Bless especially the men and women

of the Australian Defence Force and their families.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord.

Amen.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHSsCWbT0Hc

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Reading Wombat Divine book by Mem Fox - Children Story Time - Learn to read Homeschool

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQghTKAkjg8

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Macca's Makeover | Story Time for Kids with One More Book

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vrs32_7rQlE

# data[].attributes.body
Come and join us at playgroup each week on Monday and Thursdays! We would love to see you there!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Mini HEARTS PLAYGROUP flyer with Christine and Sam 