Archbishop Malcolm visits Twelve Apostles RC Primary School

Archbishop Malcolm visited Twelve Apostles Catholic Primary School in Leigh in February. The school was delighted that His Grace had accepted their invitation. Archbishop Malcolm joined the school community for prayer and liturgy led by headteacher of Twelve Apostles, Mrs Newton. The parish priest, Father Kieran O’Grady, and some of the school governors were also present for this special occasion. The school council had the opportunity to share some of the fundraising events for CAFOD, including planning an afternoon tea for parents/carers and collecting food for local food banks.

As part of Mental Health Week, the children had been exploring how to connect with the local community and walked to send cards to residents of a local elderly people’s home and immediate neighbours. They talked about future plans to take part in the CAFOD Lenten walk.

The children were enthusiastic when talking about prayer and liturgy and how parents were invited to stay and pray with different classes. They particularly enjoyed taking part in prayer and liturgy in the outdoors. They also shared work in their RE books.

Archbishop Malcolm then spent time in each class talking to the children, answering their questions and telling his own anecdotal stories. Children then had the opportunity to hold the archbishop’s crozier and wear his mitre. Each class had prepared a welcome and thank you card for His Grace with some individual messages.

Mrs Newton said that Archbishop Malcom had an excellent rapport with the children and was so personable. He took time to speak to the staff and had a genuine interest. She said: “This was such a joyous and momentous occasion and one that will be etched into our memories for a long time to come.”