TODAY was a very special day for St Chrysostom’s School
and for St Chrysostom’s Church.
Bishop Mark visited the school and was expertly shown round by four Y6 boys. Everyone was so welcoming. He visited the classrooms, talked with lots of people, watched dads and lads playing football, and mums and daughters playing rounders. Then he, and Fr Ian, had a Cook’s Choice school dinner – fish cakes, carrots and potatoes, and a lovely dessert. Everyone at the meal table was very interested in Bishop Mark’s badges of office – his cross, his ring and his hat – and also in what Football team he supported. Bishop Mark asked Y6 children what they will remember most about the school and they said, “Miss Michael and the teachers.”
Bishop Mark and Fr Ian led the children to Church.
Bishop Mark was thrilled by the excellent atmosphere in the school and later congratulated Miss Michael, the school headteacher, on such a wonderful school.
Just after 1pm Bishop Mark and Fr Ian led the juniors down to Church to a marvellous school confirmation service. Six children were baptised, twelve children from school were confirmed, and three more from other schools (who worship regularly at St Chrysostom’s) were confirmed too. The children were fantastic and it was a moving service. Tracy, our curate, said she was moved to tears in more than one place. Local councillor Rabnawaz Akbar said what a wonderful event it had been. Many parents attended and said how special it had been for them. Lots of photos were taken.
Miss Michael said of the day: I will always remember today’s service and how full of wonder it was. In particular I will remember Bishop Mark’s visit to school with Fr Ian. It was a truly special experience for children, staff and families. Thank you.
Those who were confirmed, with Bishop Mark.
At the end of the service Bishop Mark invited everyone to ‘raise the roof’ with the words ‘Thanks be to God’.
Well the roof of church is still on, but the sound of everyone’s thanks was certainly loud.
Thanks be to God, indeed.
(Click on the photos to see a larger version)
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