College Staff principally are present to educate the student body whereas the Chaplain is present to care for the soul of the Staff and students. I achieve this in a variety of ways, in public and in private.
In the former case I guide the liturgical life of the school. There are assemblies to prepare, the Eucharist to lead and the Sacraments to promote.
In the latter instance I am available to Staff or student (of any Faith or none) who
seeks counsel. All that is discussed remains confidential unless permission is given to take any matter further.
I provide back-up to the Religious Education classes in all three Departments (College, Charlton and Nursery). The Sacrament of Reconciliation ('Confession') is perhaps my most important pastoral service.
As Chaplain I form a link with local parishes and the Diocese by ensuring students are kept in touch with matters that could interest them.The Sacrament of Confirmation is specifically prepared within the local communities.
The Chapel is an integrated part of the College. It is always open and provides a private space before and after school; break and lunch times. Charlton House has a 'Quiet Room' where Staff can spend time with a class away from any distractions.
Prayer books and leaflets are available along with a Petitions' Box into which requests can be made for prayers. As Chaplain I present these during the daily Mass in the Brothers' Oratory at 0715.
At St. Mary's the Chaplain is able to call upon many others for support.
The Brothers of Christian Instruction reside on the campus with one (Brother James) also on the Staff. Form Tutors and Key Stage Staff Leaders are ever present to ensure no pupil goes without pastoral care.
During the Summer holidays there is an opportunity for pupils aged 11 to 16 to become involved in a Christian Boys' Camp inspired by the Patron Saint of young people, St. John Bosco.
Fr Michael Peters
