School Chaplain

It is a great delight to be part of the St Joseph’s School community once again.

From its very beginnings, St Joseph’s has been built on the commitment and generosity of parishioners, and the continuing bond between the parish and the school remains something both valuable and vital. That partnership has an important role to play in supporting family life and in promoting the holistic development of every child.

I remember with great affection the way in which the school has always sought to set high and worthwhile standards, particularly in faith formation, while giving each child the encouragement and opportunities they need to discover and develop their own unique gifts.

Over the years, I have seen shy children flourish through opportunities for public speaking, school presentations and, perhaps most beautifully of all, leading the congregation in prayer. There is something particularly special about hearing a child proclaim Sacred Scripture to the parish community. It is a wonderful reminder that the encouragement and formation offered by the school can bear abundant fruit.

This same commitment can be seen across the curriculum. It has been a joy to witness the dedication and skill of the staff as they contribute to this increasingly holistic approach to education, and to see the enthusiasm with which they accompany the children in their learning and development.

It is hard to believe that I first came to St Joseph’s 24 years ago, serving as chaplain and as part of the Governors’ team for six years. Fifteen years ago, I moved on, and since then my ministry has taken me through retreat work, parish ministry and the experience of living simply within my own religious community. Those years have taken me to Ireland and then, once again, back to the UK.

Since returning, I have already enjoyed my first celebration with the children and look forward to offering whatever pastoral support I can to the life of this vibrant school community. I am sure that St Joseph’s will continue to be a place of many beautiful encounters—with God, with one another, and with every person who comes through its doors.

Please know that I will be keeping all those involved in the life of our school in my prayers: the children, their families, the staff and governors, and all who contribute to making St Joseph’s such a special community.

And when you get the opportunity, I would be grateful if you could remember me in your prayers too.