Gambia Week - Day 1

Today, we pray for our staff and students who tomorrow will make their long journey to our link school in The Gambia. We are all on a journey though and already today we have made the journey here to school. As we begin our day, let us remember that Jesus is with us in every step we take.

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord

your God will be with you wherever you go."

Josuha 1:9

St Anne Line House Mass

Today saw the students of St Anne Line house at The English Martyrs School celebrate their annual mass. Students and teachers participated in the mass along with members of St Patricks and St Teresa's parish who had come along to share the celebration with us.

During the week the students had also been collecting 50p donations so that we could all contribute something to the Apostleship of the Sea, a group of people who look after the sailors who come into ports such as ours here in Hartlepool. This is something that affects each and every one of us as 90% of the world trade is transported over seas.

Well done to everyone involved in the mass today and particular congratulations to the older students who were singing their hearts out right through!

Candlemas BBQ 2012

A fire in the garden, a candlelit procession and Mass by candlelight with uplifting new music- what more could you want to celebrate this great feast day? Well, how about a delicious BBQ, brownies and custard, a funky sock competition and the excellent company of the Catholic community of Hartlepool?

This was the second event planned by the newly formed Youth Ministry Coordination Team Youth Section and they've only been going 6 weeks! Their enthusiasm is truly inspirational. Thanks to everyone involved; you know who you are!

Fancy a BBQ?

Last year people thought we were barking mad having a BBQ in the middle of Winter, this year that status has been downgraded to slightly bonkers! It's fair to say that last year was an amazing success and we never imagined so many people would turn out to celebrate Candlemas day in a way that none of us had experienced before so this year we're hoping for even more of you to come along and share in the fun. The whole event will once again take part at St Marys Church on the Headland starting at 5:30pm on Thursday 2nd February. Why not come along check it out yourselves?

Team Gambia 2012

Just under one week to go now until our Year 11 students head off to Africa once more and back to our partner school in Darsilami. The students and staff taking part this year are getting very excited about the trip and fundraising has been ongoing throughout the year. The team have hosted events such as a sponsored bike ride (see story in the Hartlepool Mail), a fashion show and most recently a race night. All of these events have not only helped to raise funds but also allow the students to develop a real team spirit which is obvious for everyone to see.

While the group are out in The Gambia the rest of us back here in Hartlepool will be starting each day with a prayer matching that which will be said by the team in Africa. This is just one way in which each and every one of us in our school community can contribute to what will hopefully be another amazing experience for all involved. Look out on the blog for some special updates on this throughout the week.

New Year

On Wednesday night, St. Cuthbert's youth group opened its doors to all-comers to celebrate the New Year! Around 50 children enjoyed musical chairs, British bulldog and eating chocolate amongst lots of other party food. The leaders were exhausted but that's what youth ministry is all about!