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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Samaritans Awareness Day

24th July 2023Mrs D Curtis
Samaritans Awareness Day emphasizes the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan, a story of compassion and charity. In this narrative, a Samaritan, despite belonging to a different religious and ethnic group, exemplifies the true essence of love and selflessness by aiding a stranger in need. This day serves as a reminder of the universal call to love our neighbours as ourselves, transcending societal boundaries and differences. Inspired by the Good Samaritan’s actions, we are encouraged to practice acts of mercy and show empathy towards those facing hardships or marginalisation in society. By embracing the spirit of Samaritans Awareness Day, we can strengthen our commitment to building a more compassionate and inclusive world, in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely, who conduct their affairs with justice. – Psalm 112:5

Rosary Rally for the Month of May

13th June 2023Mrs D Curtis

On Wednesday 3rd of May, we began our “Rosary Rally” for the month of May. This began with a meeting of the academy Chaplaincy Group who made a floral crown for the statue of Our Lady in the Peace Garden. We processed around the garden and crowned Our Lady as Queen of the May, singing hymns and praying a litany to her. From that day, and every lunchtime, we prayed a decade of the Rosary in many of the different languages spoken by our students and their families, or which are taught by our wonderful Modern Foreign Languages department (thank you Miss Rainey for giving us names of students and languages they speak). The languages we prayed in were:

  • English
  • Spanish
  • French
  • Italian
  • Polish
  • Slovak
  • Czech
  • Yoruba
  • Igbo
  • Punjabi
  • Malayalam
  • We finished in Latin, the universal language of the Church.

We had hoped to finish by half term but two bank holidays and strike days meant we had to extend May into the first week of the new half-term. We would like to thank all those students who came to pray the Rosary, to lead it in a different language, but especially Alan Kalinowski, Anshdeep Singh Kaur (who came every single day), and Treasure Solanke
who were the bedrock of this period of prayer.

We would like to remind all our students and staff that the chapel is always open and all are welcome to come and pray, sit in silence, or have a chat about faith and life in general. We have our voluntary Mass each Monday during tutor time, and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament each Friday lunchtime.

We look forward to seeing you.

Rev and Molly

Photo: Rev McKearney, Alan Kalinowski, Treasure Solanke, Anshdeep Singh Kaur, and Miss Kerrin