Diwali

12th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Diwali, the Festival of Lights, is a celebration of great significance to many of our Sikh and Hindu brothers and sisters and holds a universal message that resonates with Catholic values. Diwali can be seen as a festival that symbolises the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Just as we celebrate Christmas as the birth of Jesus, Sikhs and Hindus celebrate Diwali as the victory of light and righteousness. It reminds us of the importance of dispelling ignorance, hatred, and negativity in our lives and society, and replacing them with love, knowledge, and compassion. It is an opportunity to come together with people of different faiths, emphasising our shared commitment to promoting peace, joy, and unity. As Catholics, we appreciate the diversity of the world’s religious traditions and can find common ground in the universal themes of love, hope, and the eternal battle between good and evil, as beautifully illustrated in the Festival of Diwali.

Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. – Isaiah 60:3

Remembrance Day

11th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Remembrance Day, observed in many countries to honour the fallen soldiers and civilians who have made sacrifices during times of conflict, holds a profound place in our hearts as it echoes the values of peace, compassion, and solidarity deeply embedded in our faith. This solemn day serves as a reminder of the essential role of forgiveness and reconciliation in the pursuit of peace. It calls us to pray for the souls of those who have died in service, as well as for the healing of those who have been affected by the wounds of war. In our faith, we find strength in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who blessed the peacemakers and encouraged us to love our enemies. As we remember the sacrifices made on Remembrance Day, we are urged to work tirelessly towards a world free from the scourge of war, where justice and harmony prevail, drawing inspiration from our Catholic principles of forgiveness, mercy, and unity.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod  and staff, they comfort me. – Psalm 23:4

Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

9th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

The Lateran Basilica, also known as the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, stands as a remarkable testament to centuries of devotion and faith. Its dedication is a profound and enduring symbol of the enduring connection between the Christian faithful and their spiritual heritage. Originally consecrated in the 4th century by Pope Sylvester I, the Lateran Basilica has undergone numerous renovations and transformations over the centuries. Its dedication reaffirms the significance of this sacred space as the “Mother and Head of All Churches in the City and the World,” a title bestowed upon it by virtue of its status as the Cathedral of the Bishop of Rome and, consequently, the highest-ranking church in the Catholic Church. The unwavering reverence bestowed upon this basilica serves as a reminder of the unbroken tradition of Christianity and its central place in the hearts of believers for over a millennium.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. – Hebrews 12:1-2

Social Media Kindness Day

9th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Social Media Kindness Day embodies the spirit of charity and compassion that lies at the core of Christian teachings. In a world where digital communication has become an integral part of our lives, this observance encourages us to apply the principles of love and empathy in our online interactions. It reminds us of the importance of treating others with respect, dignity, and understanding, regardless of differences or disagreements. Social media platforms can be powerful tools for spreading love and goodwill, but they can also be sources of division and negativity. On this day, we are called to be mindful of the words we use, the images we share, and the attitudes we project on social media. By practicing kindness and fostering a sense of unity in the virtual realm, we can exemplify the teachings of Christ and contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate digital community.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. – Ephesians 4:32

Saint Charles Borromeo Feast Day

4th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Saint Charles Borromeo’s Feast Day, celebrated on November 4th, pays tribute to a revered figure in the Catholic Church known for his dedication to the reform and renewal of the Church during the Counter-Reformation. As an influential cardinal and Archbishop of Milan, Saint Charles Borromeo tirelessly worked to address corruption, promote education, and support the spiritual well-being of his flock. His legacy is marked by his deep faith, selfless service, and commitment to the less fortunate. On this special day, we commemorate the life of Saint Charles Borromeo, seeking inspiration from his unwavering devotion to the Church and the welfare of its people, and striving to emulate his virtues in their own lives.

The righteous person is rescued from trouble, and it falls on the wicked instead. – Proverbs 11:8

Saint Hubert’s Feast Day

3rd November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Saint Hubert’s Feast Day, celebrated on November 3rd, honors the patron saint of hunters, forest workers, and those who seek protection against animal diseases. Saint Hubert’s life is celebrated for his profound spiritual transformation, which occurred when he encountered a magnificent stag bearing a radiant cross between its antlers while on a hunting expedition. This divine encounter led him to dedicate his life to faith and later become the Bishop of Liège. On this day, we come together to seek his intercession for guidance, protection, and a harmonious relationship with nature. It’s a day for reflection on the balance between human stewardship of the environment and the awe-inspiring wonders of the natural world, symbolized by the sacred stag.

Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice. – Psalm 112:5

All Souls’ Day

2nd November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

All Souls’ Day, observed on November 2nd, is a day of profound significance in the Christian calendar, particularly within the Catholic tradition. It is a day dedicated to remembering and praying for the souls of departed loved ones, recognizing the belief in the purification of souls on their journey to eternal life. We commemorate the faithful departed with special Masses and prayers, asking for God’s mercy and salvation for those who have passed away. This solemn occasion underscores the interconnectedness between the living and the deceased, emphasizing the enduring bond of love and the hope of eventual reunion in the presence of God. All Souls’ Day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of faith, remembrance, and the eternal nature of the human soul.

The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. – Psalm 23:1-2

International Stress Awareness Day

1st November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

International Stress Awareness Day, observed with great significance by our community, is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of inner peace and spiritual resilience. In the Catholic tradition, stress is acknowledged as a common human experience, and this day encourages us to turn to our faith for solace and guidance. It is a time to remember the teachings of Christ, who said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” By focusing on prayer, meditation, and seeking support from our faith community, we can find strength and serenity in times of stress, knowing that we are not alone on our journey towards a more peaceful and balanced life.

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. – matthew 6:34

All Saints’ Day

1st November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

All Saints’ Day, celebrated on November 1st, is a solemn and revered occasion in many Christian traditions. On this day, believers around the world commemorate the lives and virtues of all the saints, known and unknown, who have dedicated themselves to their faith. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of goodness and the eternal bond between the living and the departed. Communities come together to honor the saints, offer prayers, and reflect on the exemplary lives they led. All Saints’ Day is a time to draw inspiration from these holy figures and strive to live a life of piety and compassion, guided by their remarkable examples.

The LORD will rescue his servants; no one who takes refuge in him will be condemned – Psalm 34:22

Charities 2023/24

24th October 2023Mrs D Curtis

The voting process is now finished, and students have determined the charities they wish to support this academic year. Compton Care, Breast Cancer Awareness, and Save the Children will be the beneficiaries of the fundraising efforts undertaken by the students during this year. Notably, students are already devising strategies to surpass the previous year’s fundraising total of £3,072.