The Religious Life of the House Life in the House is underpinned by the Catholic and Benedictine ethos of the school, and serves to support the spiritual, moral and intellectual development of students as set out in the school’s mission statement. The Rule of St Benedict has provided the inspiration for many schools over the centuries and at Ampleforth we aim to share in that same tradition of, ‘establishing a school for the Lord’s Service’ (RSB Pro45) ‘Respecting other Christian traditions, and the consciences of all, we seek to live out our faith in our daily life together, in such a way as to promote the good of each individual and wellbeing of our community as a whole: it is, we believe, the normal, daily rhythm of our life together in all its variety that provides the basis for personal growth and good behaviour.’ (From the school planner).
Since the Rule and the Gospel guide inform life in the school, an acquaintance with these will in turn enhance life for those in the House. Of prime importance, therefore, are Morning and Evening Prayer, as well as regular Masses in the House, the annual retreats, opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation together with other religious events. As a House we also support the school’s charity, FACE-FAW and students are invited to be involved in pastoral activities and retreats for students from other schools. On Sunday morning the house gathers at 09:30 for a brief check-in before all walking down together to the Abbey Church for Mass at 10:00. Please do invite your parents to come and sit with us at Mass if they are visiting. Sunday Lunch is taken together as a House and prep on this day is from 17:00 till 19:00.
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