St. Thomas Becket “Ave Mater Angha” the motto of St. Thomas Becket and the City of Canterbury. It translates as “Hail, Mother of England.” From this we take inspiration from St. Thomas’ life and martyrdom to guide us in our development.
St. Thomas Becket as the Archbishop of Canterbury clashed with King Henry II over the right of the church being infringed upon by the crown. St Thomas was martyred by knights of the king whilst praying in the cathedral. The site of this martyrdom has become an important shrine for pilgrims from across the globe. This pilgrimage was immortalised in Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. From St. Thomas’ sacrifice, we in the house take leave by his example, where we all strive to be integral and endeavour for what is right and just in all of our actions in life, in spite of fear and consequence. Our house crest is the coat of arms of the city The Site of St. Thomas' Martyrdom in Canterbury Cathedral
of Canterbury, often used to represent St. Thomas.
5
