World Theatre Day provides us with a unique opportunity to reflect on the transformative power of storytelling and the arts. As we celebrate the richness of theatrical expression, we recognise parallels with our own faith tradition and the profound impact of storytelling in conveying spiritual truths and fostering community.

From passion plays to liturgical dramas, the Catholic Church has a long history of utilising theatrical expression to convey sacred narratives and engage worshippers in spiritual reflection. Through rituals, sacraments, and visual symbolism, Catholics experience the transformative power of storytelling as they journey through the liturgical year and encounter the mysteries of faith.

Theatre, like Catholicism, has the ability to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in a shared experience of storytelling and performance. Both traditions emphasise the importance of empathy, compassion and understanding in building communities of solidarity and love.

World Theatre Day provides an opportunity to celebrate the arts as a reflection of the divine creativity inherent in humanity. Just as God is the ultimate storyteller, weaving narratives of love, redemption and hope, theatre artists harness their creativity to illuminate the human experience and inspire audiences to ponder life’s deepest questions.

Through the power of storytelling theatre has the capacity to raise awareness about social issues, promote empathy and inspire action for positive change. From Shakespearean tragedies to contemporary dramas, theatrical productions challenge audiences to confront injustice, oppression and inequality, echoing the prophetic call of Catholic social teaching to uphold the dignity of every person.

As we commemorate World Theatre Day, let us embrace the power of storytelling as a means of encountering the divine and fostering communion with one another. By celebrating the arts, promoting social justice, and engaging in dialogue with theatre artists and enthusiasts, we can continue to enrich our faith journey and build bridges of understanding and solidarity in the world.

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end. – Ecclesiastes 3:11

Holi, the vibrant Hindu festival of colours, offers us a unique opportunity to reflect on the themes of joy, renewal and unity. As we immerse ourselves in the colourful celebrations of Holi, we discover connections with our own faith tradition and a shared commitment to embracing diversity while fostering unity in our communities.

Rooted in Hindu mythology and tradition, Holi celebrates the victory of good over evil and the arrival of spring. During this joyous festival, participants come together to smear each other with colourful powders, dance, sing and share sweets, symbolising the triumph of love and the renewal of life.

From a Catholic perspective, the themes of love, joy and renewal inherent in Holi resonate deeply. Just as Holi celebrates the triumph of love and the renewal of life, Catholics rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which brings new life and hope to the world. Both traditions emphasise the importance of love, forgiveness and unity in building vibrant and inclusive communities.

Holi provides a platform for Hindus to showcase their rich cultural heritage and traditions, fostering a sense of unity and belonging within the community. Similarly, Catholics celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions within the universal Church, recognising that each cultural expression enriches our shared faith experience. Through dialogue and mutual respect, we can learn from one another and grow in solidarity as members of the global human family.

In the spirit of ecumenism and interfaith dialogue, Catholics can use Holi as an opportunity to deepen their understanding of Hinduism and build bridges of friendship with Hindu brothers and sisters. By participating in respectful dialogue and learning about each other’s beliefs and practices, we can promote mutual respect, understanding and cooperation, contributing to a more harmonious and inclusive society.

As we reflect on Holi from a Catholic perspective, we are reminded of the shared values of love, joy and unity. By embracing these principles and fostering interfaith understanding, we can work together towards a world where all people are respected, valued and embraced as beloved children of God. Through dialogue, collaboration and mutual respect, we can build bridges of peace and unity, realizing the vision of a more just and compassionate society.

then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. – Philippians 2:2

Hola Mohalla, a vibrant Sikh festival celebrated with grandeur and enthusiasm, offers a unique opportunity for us to reflect on the values of community, service and spiritual devotion. As we delve into the rich tapestry of this festival, we discover parallels with our own faith traditions and a shared commitment to embracing diversity while fostering unity.

Rooted in the Sikh faith, Hola Mohalla commemorates the establishment of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh Ji and celebrates the spirit of martial valour, courage and solidarity. During this festival, Sikhs engage in various activities such as martial arts demonstrations, processions and community service, embodying the principles of seva (selfless service) and unity.

From a Catholic perspective, the themes of service, solidarity and communal celebration resonate deeply. Just as Sikhs gather to serve their community and strengthen bonds during Hola Mohalla, Catholics are called to serve others with love and compassion, following the example of Jesus Christ. Both traditions emphasise the importance of unity in diversity, recognising the inherent dignity of every individual as a beloved child of God.

Hola Mohalla provides a platform for Sikh to showcase their rich cultural heritage and traditions, fostering a sense of pride and belonging within the community. Similarly, Catholics celebrate the diverse cultures and traditions within the universal Church, recognising that each cultural expression enriches our shared faith experience. Through dialogue and mutual respect, we can learn from one another and grow in solidarity as members of the global human family.

In the spirit of ecumenism and interfaith dialogue, Catholics can use Hola Mohalla as an opportunity to deepen their understanding of Sikhism and build bridges of friendship with Sikh brothers and sisters. By engaging in respectful dialogue and learning about each other’s beliefs and practices, we can promote mutual respect, understanding and cooperation, contributing to a more harmonious and inclusive society.

As we reflect on Hola Mohalla from a Catholic perspective, we are reminded of the shared values of service, solidarity and celebration of diversity. By embracing these principles and fostering interfaith understanding, we can work together towards a world where all people are respected, valued and embraced as beloved children of God. Through dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect, we can build bridges of peace and unity, realising the vision of a more just and compassionate society.

Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves. – Romans 12:10

We’re thrilled to announce a resounding victory for the St Edmund’s Year 9 Football Team! After a remarkable display of skill and determination, our boys have emerged triumphant, winning the league title unbeaten after five exhilarating games.

From the opening whistle to the final whistle of the season, our boys have showcased exceptional talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship on the field. Their unwavering commitment to excellence has been evident in every match, as they faced off against formidable opponents with courage and determination.

But the journey doesn’t end there. With their unbeaten league triumph under their belts, our Year 9 Football Team now sets their sights on another challenge: the cup competition. With the league title secured, the boys are hungry for more success and are determined to continue their winning streak as they vie for cup glory.

As we look ahead to the next chapter of their football journey, we’re filled with excitement and anticipation for what’s to come. After the Easter break, our boys will take to the field once again, this time in a semi-final showdown that could see them inching closer to clinching the coveted cup title.

To all the people involved in the Year 9 Football Team – players, teachers, and supporters alike – we extend our heartfelt congratulations. Your dedication, hard work, and passion for the game have propelled you to this momentous achievement, and we couldn’t be prouder of your success.

As you prepare for the upcoming semi-final, know that the entire St Edmund’s community stands behind you, cheering you on every step of the way. Your talent and perseverance inspire us all, and we have every confidence that you’ll continue to make us proud with your outstanding performance on the field.

So here’s to our unbeaten league champions, the St Edmund’s Year 9 Football Team! May your determination and teamwork carry you to even greater heights as you chase cup glory. We’ll be eagerly awaiting your next match, ready to support you as you continue to shine on the football pitch.

Team: Arthur S, Jonah B, Armin B, Montgomery B, Adam A, Esandju A, Frankie L-B, Michael E-O, Theo B, Kacper Z, Ethan A, Philip O O, Bradly B and three other students.

This term, the St Edmund’s school community rallied behind our table tennis enthusiasts as they embarked on a series of thrilling competitions. With teams competing across multiple categories, our students showcased exceptional skill, determination and sportsmanship in the face of formidable opponents.

In the City Championships, our teams (year 7/8 boys, year 7/8 girls and year 9/10 boys) emerged as fierce contenders, ready to take in the challenge. Despite facing stiff competition, every team represented St Edmund’s with pride and determination, demonstrating unwavering commitment on the table.

it’s with great pride that we announce the remarkable achievements of our table tennis teams. The year 7/8 boys and girls teams both displayed exceptional talent and teamwork, securing second place in their respective categories. Additionally, the year 9/10 boys A team mirrored this success, claiming second place in their division as well.

This outstanding performance is a testament to the dedication and hard work of every students involved in the competitions. From countless hours of practice to moments of intense focus during matches, our table tennis players have shown what it means to strive for excellence and push the limits of their abilities.

To all those who contributed to our teams’ success – players, teachers, supporters – we extend our heartfelt congratulations. Your dedication, resilience and sportsmanship have made us proud and showcased the best of St Edmund’s spirit.

As we celebrate these achievements, let us also recognise the invaluable lessons learned through sportsmanship and competition. Beyond victories and defeats, these experiences teach us the importance of teamwork, perseverance and the pursuit of excellence – qualities that will serve our students well both on and off the table.

Well done to all those involved in this term’s table tennis competitions. your achievements inspire us all and remind us of the incredible potential that lies within each of our students. Here’s to continued success and many more triumphs in the future!

Team: Katie M, Prabhnoor K S, Sara R, Kyela-Shae M, Amira M, Kornelia K and two other students

Team: Hassaan S, Lovraj S S, Cayden R, Geno M, Rio-Aston D, Enzo M, Ralph O’C, Daniel M, Mohammad A, Anagh K, Jan T and Thomas D

Team: Daniel D, Michael O O, Ethan D, Armin B, Chimka I, Philip O O, Marco T and one other student