Advent is a time of hope, peace, love and joy; a time for us to prepare for the coming of Christ. It is a time to reflect on our relationship with Christ. Pupils had the opportunity to reflect on the Word of the Lord and evaluate their lives according to Christ’s message. In preparation for Christmas, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, is available in the Churches with most making special arrangements for a Holy Hour and Confessions. 

St Matthew says: ‘Happy are those who are merciful to others; God will be merciful to them.’ The Word must be followed by action and again our pupils and parents excelled themselves in showing love for our neighbour by contributing generously to the various appeals. In Advent, in preparation for Christmas, the pupils collect items for Christmas Hampers. As usual, there has been a huge response to the appeal. The Hampers have been shared between our pupils and the Catholic Children’s Society. To find out more about the Society follow the link https://www.cathchild.org.uk/

We are sharing our gifts and talents by visiting St Vincent’s Nursing Home in Northwood to sing and play Christmas Carols and songs for the Residents and Volunteers. It is a very happy occasion and our efforts are very well received. The pupils enjoy and appreciate the sense of fulfilment from giving and sharing. They are a credit to their families and School.

We are pleased that Father Mario Lainez SDS, Salvatorian Father at St Joseph’s Parish and Father Tony Sammarco have enabled us to celebrate Mass on Tuesday mornings. Year 7 and Year 10 have celebrated their Masses and we will start the Year 11 cycle in January. During November, we prayed for the Holy Souls. Every pupil and member of Staff was given the opportunity to remember their loved ones and those who have died in service to their country. Names were recorded and displayed in the Chapel for remembrance at Mass during the Month of the Holy Souls.

The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions (RNDM), Founders of our school continue their mission to support children and women in deprived circumstances here and abroad. The Christmas Jumper Appeal is donated to the Sisters to continue their work.  For more information about RNDM and the opportunity to contribute see https://www.rndm.org/  

The blessings of Christmas be with you all this Christmas and in 2025.