Saint James The Apostle Feast Day

25th July 2023Mrs D Curtis
Saint James the Apostle, also known as James the Greater, holds a significant place in the Christian tradition. He was one of the twelve apostles chosen by Jesus to be part of his inner circle. Throughout his life, Saint James displayed great zeal and dedication in spreading the teachings of Christ. He witnessed important events such as the Transfiguration and the Agony in the Garden. James was the first apostle to be martyred for his faith, being beheaded by the order of King Herod Agrippa I. His martyrdom occurred around 44 CE, making him an early Christian martyr. He is often depicted with a pilgrim’s staff and a scallop shell, symbolising his role as the patron saint of pilgrims. Saint James remains a revered figure, inspiring believers to remain steadfast in their faith and mission, even in the face of adversity.

 

If any of you lack wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. – James 1:5-6

 

Saint James – Pray for us

Memorial of Saint Kenelm

17th July 2023Mrs D Curtis
Saint Kenelm, also known as King Kenelm, was a young Anglo-Saxon king who lived in the 9th century. Despite his tender age, he displayed remarkable piety and wisdom. As a devout Christian, he ruled with justice and compassion, prioritizing the welfare of his people. Saint Kenelm’s unwavering faith and virtuous character stirred admiration among his subjects. Sadly, his reign was cut short when he was tragically martyred at the hands of his ambitious relatives. Despite his untimely death, Saint Kenelm’s legacy endured, inspiring generations to embrace the values of faith, humility, and dedication to God. He serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, one’s commitment to Christ can shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on the world.
Saint Kenelm – Pray for us
When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers – Proverbs 21:15

ECO Week Success

14th July 2023Mrs D Curtis

St Edmund’s Catholic Academy is committed to become a LiveSimply award community in response to Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si to protect the world entrusted to us by God. By embracing sustainability, the academy is taking an active role in creating a better future for the environment.

The ECO Week sustainability events for Year 7, 8, and 9 students that took place earlier this week demonstrate the dedication to raising awareness and promoting sustainable practices among its students. The various activities and competitions, such as the video-making competition, movie night, science club, and raffle, provide engaging opportunities for students to learn about environmental issues and solutions.

The decision to donate the profits made during ECO Week to environmental charities or to fund the school’s own sustainability initiatives is commendable. It not only supports important causes but also reinforces the school’s commitment to taking concrete action toward sustainability.

By fostering collaboration between students,staff and stakeholders, St Edmund’s is building a community that prioritises sustainable choices and decisions. This collective effort ensures that sustainability becomes an integral part of the academy’s agenda and empowers students to make a positive impact on the environment.

Overall, St Edmund’s Catholic Academy’s initiatives and activities during ECO Week reflect their dedication to environmental stewardship and their commitment to creating a sustainable future. By engaging students and promoting sustainability, the academy is instilling important values and fostering a sense of responsibility towards the planet.

 

 

Photo: Leah Esson and Alaha Bahadon (Science Club)

 

Photo: Ashpriya Basi and Kyle Luis (Lead Prefects)

Memorial of Saint Camillus de Lellis

14th July 2023Mrs D Curtis
Saint Camillus de Lellis, born in 1550, was an Italian priest and the founder of the Order of the Ministers of the Sick, known as the Camillians. His life was marked by personal struggles and profound conversion. After a turbulent youth filled with military service and a gambling addiction, Camillus experienced a spiritual awakening and dedicated his life to the service of the sick and dying. He established hospitals and organised teams of nurses and caregivers to tend to the needs of those afflicted with illness. Saint Camillus emphasised the importance of compassion, selflessness, and respect for the dignity of every human being, regardless of their social status or condition. Today, he is revered as the patron saint of the sick, nurses, and hospitals, and his legacy continues to inspire people around the world to serve those in need with love and devotion.
 Saint Camillus de Lellis – Pray for us
Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God. – Romans 15:7

Memorial of Saint Maria Goretti

6th July 2023Mrs D Curtis
Saint Maria Goretti, a young and courageous martyr, is an exemplar of purity, forgiveness, and holiness. Born in Italy in 1890, she faced great challenges at a young age. When confronted by a violent attacker who sought to violate her chastity, Maria chose to protect her purity and defended her virtue, even at the cost of her life. Despite the severity of her wounds, Maria displayed remarkable forgiveness and love by forgiving her assailant and praying for his conversion. Her unwavering faith, virtuous example, and martyrdom have inspired countless individuals worldwide. Saint Maria Goretti is revered as the patroness of purity, youth, and forgiveness, reminding us of the transformative power of love and the importance of upholding the sanctity of human life.
Saint Maria Goretti – Pray for us
Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many. – Hebrews 12:14-15

Catholic Clock Competition Winners

5th July 2023Mrs D Curtis
Design and Technology Department –  Catholic Clock Design Competition.

 

Over the last few weeks, Mr. Deeming has been running a competition for years 7 and 8 to produce a clock design based on one of two catholic events; the Epiphany and St Francis’ Feast.  Students had to choose one of these events and design a clock face using associated imagery and symbols. They were given a selection of materials and processes they could use to make their design a reality and were also given limits on shape and size.
 
There were over a hundred entries and the standard of work was exceptional which made picking winners very difficult.

 

After careful consultation with all ADT staff, the winning entries are in Year 7- Imogen Allmark and in Year 8- Lyla Trubshaw.

 

Runners-up are Natalia Jefimiuk, Roxana Zielonka, Princess Konadu Banna, Amelie Chew, and CH.

 

The two winning designs have been made into physical products and will go on display in the ADT department.

 

Well done to all those students who entered.

 

Photo Left to Right: Lyla Trubshaw and Imogen Allmark

 

Memorial of Saint Modwen

5th July 2023Mrs D Curtis
Saint Modwen, also known as Saint Modwenna, was a devout woman who dedicated her life to serving God and others. Born in the 6th century, she embraced a life of prayer, solitude, and asceticism, living as a hermitess in Wales. Saint Modwen was known for her deep spirituality and her ability to heal both physical and spiritual ailments. She was renowned for her compassion and care for the sick, and many sought her intercession for healing. Saint Modwen’s life exemplified a deep trust in God and a selfless devotion to the well-being of others. Her legacy of faith, humility, and healing continues to inspire believers today, as she is venerated as a patroness of healing, hospitality, and spiritual growth.
Saint Modwen – Pray for us
The LORD sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness. – Psalm 41:3

Memorial of the First Martyrs

30th June 2023Mrs D Curtis
The First Martyrs of the Church of Rome were Christians martyred in the city of Rome during Nero’s persecution. The event is recorded by both Tacitus and Pope Clement I, among others. In July of 64CE, Rome was devastated by fire. Largely made up of wooden tenements, a fire was a frequent occurrence in the city. Rumour blamed the tragedy on the unpopular emperor Nero, who wanted to enlarge his palace. He accused the Christians. According to the historian Tacitus, many Christians were put to death “not so much of the crime of firing the city, as of hatred against mankind”. This feast commemorates those unknown and unnamed men and women who were cruelly tortured and executed. For every person the Romans killed, at least two would be converted. This is why Christianity was able to rise so steadily during the first four centuries of the common era.
We pray in solidarity for all those who have gone before us as witnesses of Jesus Christ. May they rest in peace. Amen.
If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. – 1 Peter 4:14-16

Feast Day of Saint John Fisher

22nd June 2023Mrs D Curtis
Saint John Fisher, an eminent English bishop, and theologian, is revered for his staunch defence of Catholicism during the tumultuous times of the Protestant Reformation. Born in 1469, Fisher became known for his exceptional intellect and devotion to scholarship. He served as the Bishop of Rochester and as Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, where he made significant contributions to academia. However, Fisher’s true significance lies in his unwavering commitment to the Catholic Church and his refusal to acknowledge King Henry VIII’s break with Rome. Despite intense pressure and threats, Fisher steadfastly defended the Pope’s authority and the Catholic doctrines. For his steadfastness, Fisher was imprisoned and later executed in 1535. Saint John Fisher is remembered as a courageous defender of faith and principles, and his martyrdom serves as a powerful example of fidelity to one’s beliefs, even in the face of persecution.
Saint John Fisher – Pray for us
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain. – 1 Corinthians 15:58

Feast Day of Saint Thomas More

22nd June 2023Mrs D Curtis
Saint Thomas More, a renowned English statesman and lawyer, is remembered as a man of unwavering integrity and scholar, diplomat, and eventually, as Lord Chancellor of England. Despite his remarkable career, More’s most enduring legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to his beliefs. When King Henry VIII sought to obtain an annulment of marriage, More refused to support the king’s actions, leading to his resignation and subsequent imprisonment.
Even in the face of great adversity, More remained resolute in his loyalty to the Catholic Church, refusing to compromise his principles. His steadfastness ultimately led to his execution in 1535. Today, Saint Thomas More is revered as a martyr for religious freedom and serves as an inspiration for those who strive to uphold their convictions in the face of adversity.
Saint Thomas More – Pray for us
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. – Galatians 5:13