Courage: We are challenged to be authentic and respond to the Holy Spirit by being advocates for truth and justice.

This term, we focus on the St Brigid’s school value of Courage. At Confirmation, we believe that the Holy Spirit in each of us is strengthened, after first coming to us at the Sacrament of Baptism.  We ask for his presence within us in order to live as Jesus showed us. As Christians, we all know how difficult it can be at times to stand for justice and morality in a world that constantly challenges these ideals.

Our students will be reminded, this term, that a person who stands up for what is right, even at the risk of being ridiculed or isolated, demonstrates courage in the sight of our God. It takes great strength and personal conviction to speak up for justice against the bully or those seeking to harm our world through greed or striving for power. 

Pope Francis, speaking about Christian courage, said: Let us also remember Peter: three times he denied Jesus, precisely when he should have been closest to him; and when he hits rock bottom he meets the gaze of Jesus who patiently, wordlessly, says to him: "Peter, don’t be afraid of your weakness, trust in me". Peter understands. He feels the loving gaze of Jesus, and he weeps. His courage comes through the love of Jesus himself, and the presence of his Holy Spirit within. 

Even our children require courage as they go about their daily lives. Their prayer for this term might be:

Jesus, when the time comes for me to be brave, help me remember you are always with me. Give me a courageous heart — a faithful heart that does the right thing, even if it's afraid.