Bishop Declan visited St Joseph Primary School in Burnham-on-Sea on Friday 31st March to bless the ‘Prayer Garden.’ The school were joined by many people who are a valuable part of the school community including the Dunstan Catholic Education Trust CEO Mrs Taylor and Director Mrs Christie, Mrs Powell one of the school governors, representatives from the Friends of St Joseph’s and members of the parish.
The prayer garden was originally designed in memory of Father Barry, one of the previous parish priests at Burnham-on-Sea. Theo and Gracie from Year 6 wrote some of the letters that were sent to charities to raise money for the garden and to invite Bishop Declan. They said that during the blessing representatives from each class put flowers down next to the newly painted statue of Mary. The flowers, such as Lilies were chosen because they are symbols of Mary. Despite the heavy rain, Theo and Gracie said it was really special Bishop Declan came to the blessing because he is so important.
“We are thankful because he blessed our garden. It made the day unforgettable.”
Bishop Declan also enjoyed a tour of the school and a celebratory cup of tea and cake after the blessing.
On 24th March, St Joseph’s Catholic College Chaplaincy pupils were invited to join the Reconciliation service which was led by Holy Family, Swindon Chaplaincy Leads. Both Chaplaincy Lead Teams then prayed together carrying out a Stations of the Cross walk around the school hall and the Sanctuary Garden. Over the next couple of hours, both teams talked about their roles within their schools and gave each other advice. Holy Family presented St Joseph Chaplaincy Leads with a Hannah Dunnet picture for their Chapel and a small thank you gift for each of the Leads. All agreed that the meeting had been beneficial. All Chaplaincy Leads would like to do joint future activities in the future. Special thanks to staff Mrs Hatherall, Mrs Payne and Mrs Aspell for supporting this to happen.
