Chaplaincy thoughts for the week: 17 May 2024

As always, it was a pleasure to accompany a group of Year 9 students on this occasion to St Cassian’s Centre, Kintbury for a residential retreat. The additional joy this time round was the revelation of the Northern Lights which, in such a remote and light pollution free area, made for a spectacular display. Unfortunately for everyone, I was the only one up and out when the lights showed themselves (leading to a mix of jealousy and mild anger for not alerting the entire house…at midnight!). 

We were blessed to share the experience with three other schools: St Simon Stock in Maidstone, Bishop Challinor, in Basingstoke and Coloma Convent School in Croydon. Such a big group, full of individuals, meant we were able to see in full effect the power of the Kintbury experience with our students embracing the programme and growing throughout the four days. Many of the students shared with me some comments and feedback that they wished to go in the newsletter: 

The Kintbury experience was one of the best things I've done. I have made new friends, some from this school, some from different ones, the activities was fun, the night prayers was cool and the lunch prayers were songs that was fun and exiting. The quiz night got everyone involved singing dancing. I was so happy it actually made me be closer to God and closer to friends from St Gregory’s. I would go again - it's a 10/10 and the group activities were really fun. We had good times and when leaving it was sad. 

- Hamish 

Kintbury was so fun! I didn’t want to leave. The volunteers were so friendly and fun to talk to and the other schools were fun to meet. I loved waking up and being able to meet outside with my friends! Kintbury will always have a special place in my heart as it has made me a more positive person. Kintbury is the gift you didn’t know you needed! I can't wait to go again!! 

- Chloe 

 

I found it really fun. It was especially fun when we were able to share activities with the other schools 

- Rock 

As we approach the end of Eastertide, with the birthday of the Church at Pentecost this weekend, let us pray for the same renewal of spirit and fire of love that our young people experienced at St Cassian’s to invigorate us: 

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. 

Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created, and you shall renew the face of the earth. 

Let us pray. 

O God, who have taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that in the same Spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Mr Robinson

Lay Chaplain