Aluredian
31
Chapel
by
Father Mark
The chapel choir had a
highly successful tour of
Barcelona during the
Michaelmas half-term
holiday
encountered in ancient imagery and the work of
the young. The wings curve forward with ribs
reminiscent of a boat structure. The ship has
always been a symbol of the Christian Church
and the angel is situated in the nave, from the
Latin navis - a ship. The arms taper upwards
as if poised for flight, and the body form thrusts
out from the Chapel wall, momentarily held in
time and space; a reminder that by faith we
are connected to eternity.
When St Francis spoke of "brother Sun and
sister Moon", he was expressing a wider
metaphysical truth - that we are all linked to
the natural order. That is why we have a
Harvest Festival and a special Eucharist to give
thanks for our pets and pray for an end to
animal cruelty. The donations for Harvest went
to The Open Door Project in Taunton.
This year Confirmation was conducted by
Bishop Bill Ind, former Bishop of Truro. Bishop
Bill very kindly came to our rescue at less than
24-hours' notice when our Provost, Bishop
John Kirkham, was taken ill. There were 26
candidates - the most I have ever prepared in
19 years as a school chaplain!
My thanks to our Provost, Bishop John, who
has retired. Bishop John has been a great
source of support to me and the Headmaster
and the whole school community, and we
wish him and Hester a very happy and restful
retirement. I also thank Mr Albery,
Mr Campbell and the choir for all their work
week by week. It is much appreciated and
enhances our worship greatly. My thanks also
to the members of staff who have so willingly
assisted with the chalice, the Headmaster,
Mrs McSwiggan, Mrs Chadwick, Mr McKegney,
Mr Smith, Mr Lang, Mrs Butler and Tom
Farrow (the first 6th former to join the team).
Thanks also to Mr Holmes for preparing the
choir made up of parents, staff and pupils, for
the termly Sung Evensong, which is well
attended, and gives us a chance to worship
using the beautiful Book of Common Prayer.
During the year the Oasis group which meets
after prep on Tuesday evenings has continued
to be a highlight of the week. There have been
growing numbers and moving devotions by a
wide range of volunteers. Hot chocolate,
doughnuts and a chat always follow.