The Mass was hosted by Fr Emmanuel from the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal at St Mary’s Catholic School in Bishop’s Stortford. He showed the students the importance of the mass, our relationship with God and how St Francis could be a guide to total devotion to him. A choir and musicians from St Mary’s accompanied the liturgy with beautiful hymns throughout the Mass.

At the end of the Mass, Thomas Hutchinson, Assistant Headteacher (Catholic Life) of St Mary’s, thanked Fr Emmanuel and the Brother Paul for celebrating the Mass and for their spiritual guidance. He also encouraged the Chaplaincy team members to spread the gospel within their schools and communities, following the example of St Francis is caring for others. In the next few weeks our Chaplaincy teams will be launching the Year of St Francis in their own schools.

The Mass was a meaningful opportunity for pupils from across the Trust to come together in prayer and reflection as they begin this special year inspired by the life and values of St Francis.

About St Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy Trust (https://www.stfrancistrust.net)

St Francis of Assisi Catholic Academy Trust (St Francis Trust) is a multi-academy trust established in 2021. It currently serves nine Catholic schools – eight primary schools and one secondary school and which is growing to welcome two more Secondary schools and four more Primary schools over the next one to two years.

The Trust’s mission is to provide an outstanding Catholic education for all the children in our schools, helping them to grow in faith and reach their full potential. Guided by the values of St Francis, the Trust promotes academic excellence, spiritual development, and service to others.