Fostering a Connected Faith Community at St Patrick’s Primary School, Macksville

The St Patrick’s Primary School, Macksville, community came together for night fun and games at their first Family, Faith & Fun night. (2 August 2022)

A wonderful community celebration of faith and fun was held at St Patrick’s Primary School, Macksville, for their first Family, Faith & Fun night organised by the Catholic Schools Office Family Partnership team. The night was filled with anticipation as the school community had missed the opportunity to come together and connect socially. 

The night was a huge success. The room was filled with chatter and laughter as the students, families, and staff enjoyed the evening. Families and staff relished this opportunity with the pandemic and natural disasters, having prevented the school community from coming together. 

‘It was lovely to interact and build those relationships within our school community in such a fun and informal way. It was refreshing to gather together and build our relationship with others and praise God too!’ said Monique Soutter, Assistant Principal - Mission.

The feedback from parents reflected how much they appreciated this fantastic opportunity. 

‘It was great to spend time with my family and see other families enjoying themselves too.’

‘We enjoyed all parts of the evening. I really enjoyed the faith component, and how the story was told with the visual aids, my kids told me that they remember the stories more when they are told this way.’

‘It was a very casual and relaxed evening, and the opportunity to talk to teachers and staff in an informal setting was lovely!’

The evening started with staff, students and parents praying together, followed by a shared meal and three rounds of fun activities that focused on getting to know each other and Jesus. The games were a big hit with the students.

‘It was cool going to school at night with Dad and playing with my friends. I liked the pizza and making the sheep the best,’ said Kindergarten student Matilda.

This will be the first of many evenings the school plans on hosting to foster the school and family partnership.