Founded 1642
New Hall School The Best Start in Life
New Hall Times The Newsletter of the Old Fishes’ Association, Chelmsford
Autumn 2013
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Celebrating 370 Years of Community and School Launch of Fishy Tales l Community News
Contents 3 From The Prioress
14 370th Launch
5 From The Principal
1 8 370th Events From The Past Year
8 Community News
2 4 Westminster Cathedral Mass
1 1 Other News 12 Fishy Tales
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bove is the front of the card which people received at Westminster Cathedral on their way home. As you see, it features the logo for the year, the butterfly and “Thank you for joining us to celebrate our 370th”. Firstly, it has been wonderful to meet up, hear about, and be in contact with so many Old Fishes and to put correct and up-to-date information into both the Old Fishes and the Community’s databases. This is an on-going job and if you are reading this and we do not have your current contact details PLEASE get in touch.
FROM THE PRIORESS
370th W
e are almost at the end of the year of celebration, each facet of which has been made possible with the help and enthusiasm of many people - Old Fishes, present and former staff have featured highly in our Fishy Tales and the Events of the Year Teams. The Launch of the Year, on 7 October, took place on a lovely, sunny afternoon and the whole event was wonderful. S.M.Thérèse, the oldest member of the Community, alongside the youngest member of the school launched the year by releasing our 370th balloons. This was followed by the Launch of the Book - Fishy Tales with the reading of some amusing and poignant extracts, and the Launch of the Touring Exhibition of our past and our life today. After a delicious old-fashioned tea and a moving Evening Prayer, there was a surprise for all as we made a candlelit path at the
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FROM THE PRIORESS
front of the house leading out to a large double cross made by the Estate staff‌then a goodbye drink with an impressive PowerPoint of photos of many generations. A Celebration of the Eucharist is the most wonderful way of bringing together past, present and future. At Westminster we linked one with another and with the generations who have gone before us. We remembered them and each one who has been a part of the story since 1642 and those currently a part of the school at New Hall and part of today’s life with the Community. We give thanks for all that has been - for all that is - and for our unknown future. We particularly chose Eastertide for this celebration so that the Cathedral would resound with that special Easter joy and hope which characterises our Spirituality and our Ethos. We remembered with great joy the wonderful Easters we experienced together over many years; the memories in Fishy Tales are a particular reminder of those days of travelling together to Easter. Gathering in Berkshire in May we remembered in particular those wonderful years at Goodings and Denford. An important feature of this year of celebration was to tell you how we as Women of the Gospel are searching for new and inclusive ways of being a Community with Resurrection Hope. As we assembled the touring
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exhibition in the areas in which we now live, and in other places, we came to realise anew just how fascinating the story of our forebears is: their many trials, tribulations and adventures would make a great film. A film about women inspired by the Women who were the first to run from the empty tomb to proclaim the Good News that Jesus is Risen from the Dead. Through the centuries these women have looked to the signs of the times and responded with great generosity to the needs of their day. This has led us to continue the story today in our three locations of Melbourne in Chelmsford, Greenstead in Colchester and East London. We are well placed to meet the needs of each other and those around us and to create a community of love filled with hope. At the time of writing this, our concluding celebration is on the horizon, a Thanksgiving Service in Chelmsford Cathedral. It would be wonderful to celebrate with you in person but, as that is not possible for everyone, please do let us know where you are and how you are! Below is the reverse of the card people received at Westminster; we were all invited to pray the final prayer together.
FROM THE Principal
From The Principal W
e were delighted to see many Old Fishes at the Westminster Cathedral Mass in April, to celebrate the 370th year since the Foundation of the Community and School. The Mass was attended by hundreds of current and former students and staff, members of the Religious Community and friends of the Community and School. Music was provided by both the Senior and Preparatory School choirs. It was a wonderful occasion that allowed everyone to celebrate the rich history of the school.
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his year is also significant for the school in that the very first cohort to join the Boys’ Division in 2006 have now reached Year 13. The school roll of 1,200 students is the greatest ever, with equal numbers of boys and girls. This has been an exciting chapter
of expansion and development for the school, with significant investment in the curriculum, staffing, co-curriculum and facilities. We hope you will take a look at the website and visit us on an Open Morning, to catch up on the latest news and projects.
Messing Primary School Sponsorship I n 2012, New Hall took the initiative to become the first independent school in the country to agree to sponsor a state primary school which is seeking to become an Academy under the new Government scheme. Our Governing Body decided to respond positively to this request for assistance from the Department for Education and the Governing Body of Messing Primary School. In the spirit of the founding
Religious Community, who were pioneers in education, we have welcomed this opportunity to create a new type of educational partnership in order to share our educational expertise and experience with a school in need in our local community, for the benefit of children’s learning. Messing Primary School, 15 miles north east of Chelmsford, is a rural village school, with a small number of pupils and staff; there are currently less than 40 pupils on roll. Through our partnership, the pupils at Messing are benefiting from the wealth of experience of dedicated subject-specialist teachers from New Hall School, such as in Music and PE. Other New Hall staff have joined with Messing pupils on special projects and helped put on performances for parents and the community. Pupils from Messing Primary can use the outstanding facilities on offer at New Hall, including our 25-metre indoor swimming pool where they can receive swimming lessons, free of charge, from the dedicated swimming coaches at New Hall.
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FROM THE PRINCIPAL
New Hall features on Outstanding the Chelmsford City Examination Results Monopoly board! I I n recognition of Chelmsford’s new city status, we now have our own unique edition of Chelmsford Monopoly. New Hall School was voted by the public to be represented on the board game, as one of the favourite city landmarks. The heritage of the former Tudor palace at New Hall is celebrated on the board, with a picture of the main building. If you wish to buy this Monopoly edition, it can be purchased from Amazon or any major toy shop.
n 2012, A Level students celebrated 50% A*/A grades and 76% A*-B grades. A record 25 students achieved 3, 4 or 5 A*/A grades at A Level, with 100% success rate overall. One of our Year 11 students received the highest AS Level dance theory result in England. A record number of students took GCSE examinations in 2012 and they celebrated 80% of A*-B grades and 47% of A*/A grades. The highest performer achieved 11 A*s and 1 A.
Sports Development O
ur sports teams have had an outstanding year of success; I hope that you will take a look at the details which are available on the school website. This year brought national success in rugby with a Year 11 student being selected for the U16 England team. The U12 7s rugby team have won 19 out of their 20 games this season, winning 2 cups. The U15 team played in the last 32 of the Daily Mail Cup which is the furthest position the school has achieved in rugby to date. New Hall has produced 19 county rugby players from U13-U18 and 6 of our players have represented the Saracens Elite player group. In addition, 3 students have represented the Midlands U13 Independent School Team and 1 student went on to represent the Independent School U13 England team. Another 2 New Hall students played in the London SE England U16 Team.
Queen’s Garden Party M
rs Joy Hopkinson, the Deputy Principal, and I had the pleasure of attending HM The Queen’s Garden Party this summer at Buckingham Palace. Invitations had been arranged by staff as a thank you for service to New Hall over a combined total of 38 years! In particular, we wished to express our thanks to Joy for all she has given to the school in her many varied and senior roles over the years; she steps down from her leadership role at the end of this academic year in order to take on the full time role of Chaplaincy Co-ordinator at New Hall. We are delighted that she will continue to be part of our staff team and look forward to implementing the many creative ideas that she has for the development of the Chaplaincy at New Hall.
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In athletics - A Year 9 girl came 2nd and a Year 8 boy came 3rd in the U15 3000m Essex County Athletics in May 2012. The same students came 5th and 3rd in the National Finals Preparatory Schools competition in 1500m in July 2012. Another Year 8 boy came 1st in the 70m hurdles at Bedford Regional Championship and qualified to compete in the Nationals at Birmingham. A Year 7 student is participating in the forthcoming Essex County Championships in the 1200m, high jump and shot put. In February she jumped 1.47 at a masterclass which would place her 2nd in the UK so far this season.
In cricket - 21 boys have played for the county in Essex CCC squads and New Hall students have represented Essex in the U13 National Cricket Cup for the second consecutive year.
to represent the county this year. The U16 hockey team brought home the prestigious Essex Cup in March and the U14XI hockey team won the Essex Plate competition.
In netball
- A number of New Hall students have been involved in the England Talent Netball pathway this year and have been playing in either regional, county or satellite squads. New Hall’s U13 team were runners up in their district tournament.
In swimming - New Hall students were selected for the inter-divisional team English School Championships in June. One student who came 8th nationally in 2012 in the 100m breast stroke, has qualified so far in 3 events for the nationals and has 1 time for the British Championships. A number of students have been selected to represent Essex, have broken county records and have won Top Girl and Top Boy at the County Championships this year. 2 of these students have national times for 2013, winning a number of gold medals.
In cross country - One student qualified to represent Essex at the U15 nationals in March, coming 3rd. The same student was the winner of the district Cross Country competition. Another student achieved 2nd place in the U13 Essex Cross Country League, 3rd in the Essex Cross Country Relay Championships and 3rd in the East Anglian Preparatory Schools Cross Country Championships. Three Year 7 students qualified to represent the Southern Counties in Cross Country; 1 was 2nd place out of 287 competitors for Year 7 girls, the others were placed 13th and 18th out of 290 competitors for Year 7 boys.
In tennis - The Year 8 and under boys were National Semi-Finalists. Year 8 and under girls were National Quarter Finalists. A number of students have represented the county and also a number of our players have retained their ranking inside the top 24 in the country. The New Hall U13 and U15 boys are playing in the county championship finals in mid-June.
In equestrian - This year, the New Hall team have been crowned Essex Champions at the New Hall Inter-School Dressage Competition and overall individual champions in the Open Class at the National Schools’ Equestrian Association Championship Finals.
The team also had great success at the New Hall Show Jumping Competition in May. One student spent the summer competing for Great Britain in the Pony European Eventing Championships, achieving Team Bronze. There are also a number of the New Hall equestrian teams that have qualified at events throughout this academic year for the prestigious NSEA championship taking place in October.
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
In hockey - 11 New Hall girls have been selected
In golf - The New Hall team continue to flourish and won both the Schools’ Cup Competition and the Junior Schools’ Tournament in October. One student was awarded a Young Sport Star Award at the Essex Sport Awards for her golfing talent.
Good Schools Guide and a Request For Your Help! U rgent request for help - Entry into Good Schools Guide.
As you may recall from previous newsletters, we are very much hoping to secure a place in a future edition of the Good Schools Guide and we have been recently told that New Hall is under consideration for entry. The only way we can be successful in this is by current, past or prospective parents providing personal recommendations, by letter or email, as evidence of the school’s excellence. If you or your parents would like to write in with your views about why New Hall is such a great school, please contact: Ralph Lucas, Editor 3 Craven Mews, London SW11 5PW Tel: 0207 801 0191 Fax: 0870 052 4067 Email: goodschoolsguide@gmail.com Website: www.goodschoolsguide.co.uk For the second year running, we were delighted that New Hall School was featured in the September issue of the Tatler Good Schools Guide. The magazine personally chose the school to be among a select few from across the country for their prestigious annual publication.
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Community News Three African Sisters living with us
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he Community has been greatly enriched by the presence of three of our African Sisters living with us for an extended period of time. S.Agnès from Rwanda and, S. Véronique and S. Thérèse from the Democratic Republic of Congo. They are with us to gain experience of our life lived in another culture and also to learn English. They have met many of our friends and have visited New Hall on numerous occasions.
(Above) S. Véronique and S. Agnes (Left) S. Thérèse at the 370th Launch
Development of Companions and extended Lay groups to reflect on issues of spirituality and the Church in our times
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hen we left New Hall, we developed a way forward for some Lay people who wanted to grow together with us in spirituality and friendship. That group has grown and developed over the years and we have together met and reflected with some eminent theologians on the key spiritual and ecclesial questions of our time. Lea Verstricht from Belgium, Susie Brouard from Cafod UK and Lieve Troch from Holland led some days of reflection with us developing the theme of our 2011 General Chapter - ‘Weaving threads of Solidarity amongst ourselves; within the world and with the planet’. We were immensely fortunate to spend an afternoon with the Tablet Journalist and University of Roehampton
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professor of Theology, Tina Beattie who spoke to us of what it means to be ‘Living Easter’ in today’s church and world.
ome members of the Community have celebrated significant milestones in the last year. S.Catherine and S.Mary Stephen have celebrated Diamond Jubilees and S.M.Gabriel, S. Stephanie and S. Margaret Mary have celebrated Golden Jubilees: with family, Community and friends.
Parish and neighbourhood
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very member of the Community is still actively involved in the parish and/or neighbourhood apostolic work. The range remains varied and impressive: delivering regular Scripture classes; Street Pastoring; working at the Night Shelter; Teaching in a prison; Chaplaincy work in schools and Essex University; visiting people in their homes; youth work; support for young mums; spiritual direction; parish ministries... and the list goes on.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Jubilees and other celebrations S
S. Catherine and S.Mary Stephen
S. M. Gabriel, S. Stephanie and S. Margaret Mary
Meeting the needs of those near and far
Members of the worldwide Association with Bishop Thomas at Westminster Cathedral
Association links and visits
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he past year has also been a year of regular interchange between ourselves and our Communities abroad. There have been ‘Work’ meetings in Holland and ‘Weaving Days’ in Belgium; friendly visits to Zaragoza; and official visits to Africa. Also we have tried to keep up regular exchanges through emails, phone calls and our shared reflections.
Sisters from different Priories at an Association gathering
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Our continued links with New Hall
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he Prep is twinned with a Primary School near Bukavu and the Senior School is supporting a Literacy Centre in Masaka. We are pleased that New Hall Prep and Senior Schools continue to work so hard to support our Communities in D R Congo and Rwanda. Our 370th Celebrations have put us in very fruitful contact with pupils in both the Senior and the Prep Schools and we have enjoyed collaborating with staff on joint ventures such as the Launch of the year; the FaurÊ Requiem; the Visual Arts event. We have taken the Community’s new exhibition of our past and present to both schools during the year and have enjoyed showing staff and pupils around. Our regular contacts with the school continue through the Governing Body; NHVS; the Theology Department and we are always pleased to meet pupils and to share something of the founding spiritual ethos of the school with them.
The Literacy Centre, Masaka
At the Prayer Tree - S. Stephanie with New Hall pupils
S. Angela with New Hall pupils at the Touring Exhibition
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Rwanda fundraising event - New Hall pupils with S. Agnes
Staff News Mrs Hopkinson At the end of the 2012-13 academic year we thank Mrs Hopkinson for her 27 years of unstinting service to New Hall in teaching, leadership and management roles, whilst welcoming her to her new role this September, as she becomes our full-time Chaplaincy Co-ordinator. The students describe Mrs Hopkinson as ‘the real McCoy’ and ‘always there for you’. Thank you, Joy, for all you have given so generously to New Hall. We are delighted you are continuing on our team and know that the New Hall Chaplaincy will continue to flourish under your care.
NEWS
Other News Mrs Harris Mrs Harris, Head of English, has given 23 years of service to the school and will be remembered by her students, present and past, as an extraordinarily passionate and dedicated teacher, who brought out the best in them and inspired a love of literature. Under her leadership, the English Department produced some fantastic results and inspired many students to go on and read English at University.
Obituary Jane Florence Mary Barea (née Cockshutt)
J
Joy Hopkinson at the Palace
Mrs Walker The pupils will remember Mrs Walker as an extremely creative practitioner in the classroom, her colleagues will remember Moira as a staunch supporter of what is right and you could always rely on her to bring clarity, and a good dose of humour to any situation. Recently, Mrs Walker’s close ties with the school’s founding community led her on a much longed for visit to the Holy Land. Latterly at New Hall she held the post of Deputy Head of Sixth Form - the only woman in a male dominated Sixth Form Management team. Moira was regularly the one to be turned to in times of crisis, not least as she always had an assembly planned! Moira has given tremendous service to New Hall over the past 10 years and we all wish her a relaxing retirement.
ane was born in 1940 and was educated at Goodings and New Hall at the end of the 40`s and into the 50`s before entering the Community in 1958 where she was known to students and Old Fishes as Sr. Mary James. She was Professed in October 1963 and trained at Digby Stuart College, before teaching Home Economics and being House Mistress of Pole House. After leaving the Community in 1974, among other schools she taught at Cardinal Wiseman School in London where she met and married her beloved husband Frank of more than 25 years. Jane fought cancer for more than ten years with great determination and courage but sadly died on 14th September 2011, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. As we approach the second anniversary of Jane`s death our thoughts and prayers are with her husband Frank, her sister Rosemary and family and with all whose lives were touched by hers. May she rest in peace. (With apologies - this article was regretfully omitted from our last issue.)
Deaths We are also sad to announce the deaths of two former long-serving teachers
Marjorie Jones
Pat Western
Died 6th June 2012
Died 22nd June 2013
“May they rest in peace.”
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FISHY TALES
S
Fishy
omeone came up with the bright idea of marking this 370th year with a book of living memories from New Hall and thus it was that ‘the Book Group’, met for the first time in 2010. Historical books had been written about New Hall, there were several letters in the archives with memories of the school but there had never been a book of living memories published.
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e were all thrilled at the response. So many funny, moving, perceptive memories soon gave even those of us not part of the school a real flavour of life and changing times of each decade at New Hall. We wanted everyone to share the height and depth of the experiences contained in these individual memories. The book was launched on 7th October 2012, at the beginning of the 370th celebratory year. No new parent at the school should be without a copy, not to mention every Old Fish! The Community and the Book Group would like to thank all of you who contributed, all of you who have enjoyed reading. We send sincere apologies to a few whose contributions were left out, to the few words changed which may have not been to your liking (we did our best). We hope, like us, you find it a fascinating and entertaining read. Thank you for sharing in the creation of this wonderful legacy.
How to buy the book You can buy the book directly, or online. £15 (plus £3.50 P&P) From the Community (cash, cheque or online) www.canonesses.co.uk - 01206-867296 From New Hall School library (cash or cheque - collect from New Hall) library@newhallschool.co.uk - 01245-467588 From Waterstones, Chelmsford 0843 290 8223
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Tales An extract from Rachel Kellett at the launch of Fishy Tales
D
eciding by committee is not always easy, and much discussion was aired about the front cover. Having finally decided on an image of the Avenue, we were challenged by our excellent editing and design team of Rosy and Antony Gray, who disagreed saying we must have the iconic building of New Hall for the front cover. And you know what, all of us came out of our prams, and affirmed our decision. (Antony came to agree with us). Because it’s not about a building it’s about the people. Because the Avenue was the most overriding memory, the one that so many people began or ended with. The Avenue was the memory that existed through the time from 1930 to today. It was the journey down this avenue for the first or the last time, that was the prevailing memory. It is the wardrobe doors of Nania, into the different life. Those silent, sentient trees, winter and summer, that caught - and catch still - in their interwoven branches all our wishes, hopes and fears, spoken and unspoken over the years. It was the journey, not the arrival. And that is what this book is about - our various journeys.
FISHY TALES
Some Extracts From Fishy Tales 3 1
2
4 5
7 6
1 Fishes after a tennis match in 1950s 2 Fishes up tree with SM Christopher 3 The opening of the tennis courts - 1950’s
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4 Exhibition Day 1988 5 Veronica Capps in Cabaret at the New Hall Ball - 1970 6 Housework!
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7 Virginia Maskell at the New Hall Pageant - 1964 8 The Community launching their album Eternal Light - 2001 9 VE Day celebrations
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THE 370TH LAUNCH
The 370th Launch
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n Sunday, 7th October 2012 the Community launched the 370th celebratory year, opened their new Exhibition and launched a book of living memories of New Hall, Fishy Tales - all in one afternoon!
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he Community were particularly delighted to see so many people gathered together to open the celebrations - over 300 Old Fishes, Community, staff and friends.
The oldest member of the Community and youngest member of the school launch the 370th year “
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hank you for the invite to attend. I was delighted to see so many members of the Community, and catch up with old friends. It really was a blast from the past, and a wonderful experience for my second son who was amazed by the experience, the building and the nuns! It would be great to have the chance to see everyone again, and hopefully I will be able to achieve that sooner rather than later.”
Nina Gumoes (née Firth)
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The Launch
Recollections from Claire Merry (Old Fish 1980s, NH parent, member of the Events Group)
B
eing asked to organise the launch party to start the 370th celebrations was a little daunting to say the least!! I thought I was being very organised as I quickly drew up a plan for the afternoon which in turn was approved by the Community, much to my relief. For the finale we wanted something spectacular. The suggestions came fast and furious from fireworks, light shows, doves (tricky when being released in the dark), pigeons, Chinese lanterns (downright dangerous when the site is a Grade 1 listed building!). Finally and very near to the event, S. Moira came up with an inspirational and memorable idea of the Community’s cross lit up on the other side of the ha-ha . It was agreed that there would be a path of light from the Chapel doors leading towards the cross. Eventually it was decided that candles in glass jars would be perfect. Personally I thought it was amazing ending to a fabulous afternoon. There were almost daily emails with Pauline, S. Moira and S. Teresa, as numbers kept increasing and increasing, but everyone was driven by the vision that they had in their mind and wanted to ensure that the day went perfectly.
Sticky willies and toenail buns
bviously the day ended in the Chapel and in true New Hall style the service was perfect and very moving. What really struck me was the love and fond memories that everyone had for New Hall and the Community. It will remain with me forever how these very special ladies, in their determined way all rallied to together to make the launch party be filled with love, laughter and warmth. It’s a day I won’t forget and I am sure many others who attended feel the same.
“
I
certainly enjoyed the day very much it was wonderful to get to visit New Hall and reconnect with the nuns. So many have gone on to a Higher Place, that only gives away my age! Meeting up with my past was fun; I only wish I could find out what happened to some more people who were at New Hall at the same time. The day was beautiful and both Francis and myself enjoyed the day very much.”
THE 370TH LAUNCH
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Jenny Holford (née Wolff)
The launch of Fishy Tales, Living Memories of New Hall 1930 - 2012 Rachel Kellett (Book Group)
The chapel doors opened to reveal the huge backlit double cross, made by the Estate staff as a surprise for the Community - a breathtaking and emotional end to a happy day
S. Mary Magdalene officially opens the Community’s touring Exhibition
The path of light
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THE 370TH LAUNCH
“
I
t was so good to come back to school and see loads of colleagues both past and present. In many ways even after leaving 12 years ago it was just like I was still there! Also good to see some of my old pupils such as Sam Benton, Libby Nunn, Jacqui Heuer looking not a day older but with their small children with them... Very strange! The biggest change and shock really (apart from the boys!) was seeing the new buildings, including the Maths Dept, PE 1... Where did the wall bars go? And PE 2! Oh how I would have liked that floor when I taught 300 pupils aerobics in there! I loved it, of course. Loved seeing my friends in the Community, and I really look forward to seeing you all again in Westminster Cathedral.”
Tea and speeches
Elaine Coulthard (former member of staff)
The Exhibition
An account written by S. Mary Magdalene (current Archivist, Member of the Community and Old Fish 1940s)
A
fter some discussion we decided to celebrate our 370th anniversary of Foundation in 2013 rather than wait another 5 years until the 375th. An Archive Exhibition seemed an excellent project in order to present our long history and its continuation today. Like Topsy, the idea grew and grew. From the modest idea of a home produced mobile exhibition it has grown into what you see today, a professionally produced depiction of our past and our present. The ideas came from everywhere, from one of our Priories in Belgium came the idea to exhibit all the portraits we have of the Community, some from 17/18 century. The idea of a ‘tent’ as a foyer, came from several venues and it houses a triptych describing the core of our Spirituality and has choral music from the Community’s life of prayer, the portraits are hung all around this ‘core’. The idea, shared with two professionals, produced the
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wonderful panels depicting our whole history clearly and vividly. Three electronic displays of past events in the School and up to date Community enterprises are counter balanced by the show cases with artefacts from our sojourn in Liège 370 years ago. The millennium brought many changes in our way of life but none in our spirituality and ideals. The exhibition is aimed at giving people an idea of how great the changes are, and yet how much the same our work for God and the gospel have remained. The early history of the Community was full of new thoughts and aims. It was important that girls should be encouraged to achieve an education so a school was built which flourished. And it was also important that women wanting to embrace the Religious life should have the opportunity to do so. Later on, the imminent arrival of the French army decided our flight from our loved home and with
THE 370TH LAUNCH
overwhelming vicissitudes we made the perilous journey to England. Catholics were still looked upon as subversive creatures and Nuns even more so. Despite this, our Community never lost their enthusiasm and ideal of education and their inspiration is now continued in a flourishing School for girls and boys at New Hall. This endeavour is now left in safe hands and the Community have dispersed to continue their work in God’s service according to their various abilities, these are admirably depicted in aforesaid panels. The exhibition takes us from the origin of our Order in 12th Century, at the time of the Crusades, through to the establishment of the female branch in 1480. The English branch was founded in 1642 by the dynamic but humble and retiring Susan Hawley, and the origin of the popular and successful School was due to Christina Dennett, also a humble and retiring but a visionary and an indefatigable worker. All this is depicted in pictures and with artefacts taken from our long history, a Chalice gift of our Foundress and her little book explaining the Order, a 16th Century Choir book, a 17th century Account book, and other artefacts which are all part of our history.
The Prayer Tree - Moira Rickford (former member of staff)
The exhibition ends with visitors being invited to place a message on our prayer tree and in turn are offered a message to take away with them.
Panels – Life at New Hall
Postscript The final panel of the exhibition, with the help of the ‘family tree’ and photographs, demonstrates how the support of and the bond with the wider community of worldwide Canonesses provides a link between the Houses and a continuity worldwide.
Tented area telling the story of the spirituality of the Order and portraits of the Community
Panels about the Community’s Life Today
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370TH EVENTS FROM THE PAST YEAR
370th Events
From The Past Year
Eucharist remembering the Dead 3rd November 2012
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n 3rd November 2012, Community, friends and Old Fishes gathered for the annual Mass for the Dead at New Hall, praying in thanksgiving for their lives. Mass was said by Fr Leslie Knight a former chaplain at the school. For this 370th year, we opened a book of remembrance for family and friends, which has travelled with the Community to various events throughout the year. If you would like any names to be added to the book please let us know. contact-us@canonesses.co.uk.
One of the pilgrims reflects; our fellow Pilgrims were an amazing collection of nationalities. Argentina, Austria, France, Holland, Italy and Malta were all represented not forgetting our home grown English, Scots and Irish. Ages ranged from Francoise who celebrated 85 years while we were by the Sea of Galilee with cake and fireworks and Anya age 16, who was thoughtful and caring of those around her. What a wonderful gathering of interesting people of varying backgrounds, knowledge, diverse opinions and stimulating discussions. ‘The Moiras’ were great guides, encouraging excellent reflections. Each stage of the pilgrimage was more moving than the last, insights and concerns were revealed, shared and recognised as our own.
Pilgrimage to the Holy Land February 2013
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e thought that a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in this anniversary year would be an entirely appropriate way of recognising the origins of our Order at the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. And so it was that a pilgrimage was organised and led by S. Moira and Moira Walker (friend and former teacher at New Hall) in February 2013. By all accounts it was a thoroughly amazing experience for all.
“If you ever get the chance to visit Jerusalem, don’t even think about it just go. The Pilgrimage, in February 2013, was an amazing event for all who journeyed to the Holy Land.” Moira Walker
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Each Basilica and Church was more amazing and beautiful than the last. I have been changed by the Holy Land, by companionship, by shared scripture, joyful singing and new friends. The Holy Spirit will help us on our pilgrimage through life. We only have to ask. (To read more and see more pictures - visit our website).
8th March 2013
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n Friday 8th March, the founding religious community, the Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre, hosted a special art and archive exhibition in the Preparatory School Hall. The exhibition was a celebration of the Canonesses’ past, at New Hall and their present day work in the local community. During lessons on Friday, pupils from the Preparatory School had the opportunity to view the exhibition and talk to the members of the community. All of the pupils were very enthusiastic and intrigued by the pieces of history on display, such as an old hymn book that was much larger than the ones we use today, and a video of pupils in lessons at New Hall many years ago. Pupils were also invited to contribute to one of the pieces of artwork by writing a prayer on a piece of paper and adding it to a prayer tree.
present pupils, friends and music lovers from among our present contacts under the baton of Andrew Fardell, musical director at New Hall School. It was enjoyable musically but also an opportunity for singers from different areas, choirs and eras of the school to get together. After rehearsing the work during the afternoon we performed it in the evening to a sizeable audience. Members of the audience remarked on the quality of the music, especially given that the choir had only come together during the afternoon. Many others were delighted to be back in the newly refurbished Chapel, other newcomers were overwhelmed by the beautiful, historical chapel.
370TH EVENTS FROM THE PAST YEAR
Touring Exhibition comes to New Hall
Living Easter 27th April 2013
P 370th Musical Event 9th March 2013
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usic has always played an important part in the life of the Community and school. It was therefore fitting to hold a Musical Event as part of the celebrations. This took the form of a workshop followed by an evening performance of the Fauré Requiem. The choir, about 60 strong, was made up from the Community, present and past staff, Old Fishes,
rof Tina Beattie of the University of Roehampton, London, led an afternoon exploring Resurrection Spirituality which was attended by some 80 people Community, Companions, other Religious, Old Fishes, friends and contacts from a wide area. The event took place at New Hall Preparatory School which provided a wonderful space for interaction between the discussion groups following Tina’s talk. Focussing on Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the Risen Christ, Tina asked what this encounter might mean for people today, and how reflection on the women at the tomb can help us to explore the significance of women in the story of Christ.
Reflections of one of the participants
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unday 14th April was a beautiful spring day. The sun was shining and a gentle breeze touched us.
On this special day approximately 80 people made their way to New Hall to hear Professor Tina Beattie explore the spirituality of Easter and the Resurrection. The words from John 20 Verse 11 (Christ appears to Mary Magdalene after the Resurrection) were the theme of the afternoon, and Tina Beattie gently and creatively brought a world of thought into our lives. She encouraged us to explore these verses, and also the nature of the relationship between Mary
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370TH EVENTS FROM THE PAST YEAR
Magdalene and Christ. This prompted wonderful and insightful discussion in our groups. Jesus chose a woman to be the first person he spoke to after the Resurrection, he bade her not to cry or cling, but to go and tell His brothers about His transformation. A breath of fresh air blew through the gathering on Sunday and touched us. Perhaps we should go forth and tell some of our brothers in the Church, with love, to stop clinging and go forth with joy to a new Resurrection.
Reunion at St Cassian’s, Kintbury 18th May 2013 - Veronica Slater (née Ogden) - New Hall 1968-77
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fter seemingly endless rain, we were blessed with a lovely sunny day for our get together at St Cassian’s, Kintbury, as part of the Community’s 370th anniversary celebrations. Berkshire makes sense as a location for school reunions, as the junior part of the school was in the county from 1947 to 1967, and the De La Salle Brothers of St Cassian’s had links with the Community at Denford Park, just a few miles away. While I was there ahead of time, sorting final logistics and making sure white wine was chilled (!) the main
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event began at 11.30 am with coffee on arrival, after which we had Mass in the Chapel, celebrated by Fr Keven Delaney, who had said Mass at our very first Kintbury gathering a few years ago. In his homily he said that we were there because of love and friendship, two things to be very much celebrated and grateful for. How true! While we were at Mass, my daughter and son, who I’d volunteered as helpers, set out the lunch contributions that people had kindly brought, and on our return to the dining room, we were greeted with a spectacular buffet: a feast for the eye as well as for the stomach! Arabella and Hugh tended table and bar, while Hugh was also charged with taking photos of the occasion, and they did a magnificent job with the washing up afterwards. There were some 40 of us gathered, including 8 members of The Community, and it was, by all accounts, a very happy and successful day, with plenty of conversation and laughter, as people caught up with those they’d not seen for a while and shared many memories. Even if we weren’t all contemporaries, we had a common bond, and stories across generations are always so interesting! Despite my best efforts, we were not able to visit Denford Park, now a private residence and stud owned by a Middle Eastern prince, as he was in residence. However, The Community
370TH EVENTS FROM THE PAST YEAR
had brought with them a film made when it was ‘our’ school, which was particularly fascinating viewing for those of us who didn’t go there, and one Old Fish commented that it was “very amusing watching how I spent my prep school days, picking potatoes and snowdrops! They were very happy days.” I don’t know if we will have another reunion in Berkshire, but it would be lovely to think we might. St Cassian’s is a wonderful setting - and very evocative of New Hall with its red brickwork, tall chimneys and cedar trees. We are always made so welcome there, and I would like to say a sincere thank you to Brother Gus, Janey, Shelagh and Guy, for whom nothing was too much trouble. I shall be ever grateful to the nuns for their continued friendship and for the amazing sense of community that exists among Old Fishes, even if we weren’t all at school at the same time. Last, but by no means least, thank you to everyone who came: without you the day couldn’t have happened let alone been the success it was.
back to New Hall many Old Fishes -Sioban Coppinger, Sarah Stokes (née Brown), Mary Anstee-Parry (née Anstee), Sue Coffey, Cindy Buxton, Molly Clare O’Donnell, Brenda Gosling (née Ludlow), who ran workshops and talks alongside current teachers and friends of the Community.
370th Celebration of the Visual Arts New Hall 30th June 2013
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n 30th June, the Community and School hosted an exhibition and series of workshops at New Hall to celebrate our rich heritage in the Visual Arts.
Old Fishes, teachers and other friends came together for one day only to lead workshops, give talks, exhibit and sell their work.
Amongst other Old Fishes exhibiting were Anya Hindmarch, Sheelah Mee (née Lanigan O’Keeffe), Alexandra Walker, Roz Griffiths (née McCarthy), Ciaran Tyler (née Madden), Louise Simson, Ann Downey, Lesley Faux, Jane Liddle (née Davies), Nancy Coulson (mother of Old Fish Stella Arden née Coulson), Liz Schwier (former teacher), S. Mary Stephen, S. Mary Magdalene and many others.
Evening Prayer Bradwell 7th July 2013
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he Community and friends celebrated a 370th anniversary liturgy at the picturesque and tranquil location of St Peter’s Bradwell.
The workshops and talks ranged from sculpture and drawing, to photography and various specialist crafts. There was also a painting masterclass run alongside for current pupils of the school. We were thrilled to welcome
The Community gathered with many Companions and friends on a sunny Sunday afternoon to enjoy a walk by the sea, followed by a picnic, prior to Evening Prayer in the ancient St Peter’s Chapel. The liturgy was a service of thanksgiving for the rich blessings that the Community has received over these 370 years.
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Fun Week
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s well as being part of the programme for the 370th celebrations, Fun Week 2013 was also momentous in that it was the 10th Fun Week on the Melbourne estates. The week is Community-initiated and then run by a large and enthusiastic team of young helpers and adults, many of whom are Old Fishes or parents of Old Fishes. The week provides 7 full days of activities for local children from the estate, most of whom don’t go on holiday and don’t have the means for days out. There was dance, drama, cookery, sport, drumming, singing - and a LOT of fun for the 100+ children who came every day.
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Exhibition on tour
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orn out of discussions of how to illustrate the history and life of the Community today we came up with the idea of a travelling exhibition. That ambition has been realised and the exhibition came on tour with us to all our 3 living areas, and more! More importantly we have been delighted to welcome many Old Fishes and friends en route. The exhibition tour began at New Hall (it has had several return trips there too) and has travelled to Brentwood Cathedral, Colchester, London, a small part of it to Kintbury and by the time of reading this, it will have had its last outing during this celebratory year to Melbourne, Chelmsford. The Melbourne celebration also marks 10 years of a Community presence on the Melbourne estates and in the Blessed Sacrament Parish. The exhibition has only been possible due to the help of a dedicated team of volunteers to whom we owe a debt of gratitude.
“I’d just like to say that David and I have had the best time helping put the exhibitions up and although I work for the Community the panels really brought the history of the Community to life for me.” Jo Thompson
Special thanks to all our helpers
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he different projects of this anniversary year have been made possible by a generous and creative group of friends, Old Fishes and Community. Each has given tirelessly of their time and skills to make all the projects work in such a professional and seamless way.
Working together has also been a wonderful experience of reconnection and community and we thank each person for their unique and generous contribution.
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Westminster Cathedral Mass Saturday 27th April 2013 - Clarinda Cuppage ver two years ago and Claire van Helfteren
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the newly assembled 370th anniversary events committee met to brainstorm ideas for ways to fittingly celebrate the Community’s major anniversary year.
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ometime that evening the words ‘Surely a Mass at Westminster Cathedral would be appropriate.’ were uttered. All the ideas were collated, and cannily, Teresa allocated organising the events to the ‘bright sparks’ that came up with them - thus began the planning for many events including Westminster Mass which was to be a collaboration between Community and School. Like all these 370th anniversary events, stressful in the planning, eager in anticipation, nervous of the response, the Mass turned out to be a joyous and delightful event. Approximately one thousand friends of the Community and School attended - a true testament to how the Community has touched so many lives from different generations. Celebrated by The Bishop of Brentwood, Bishop Thomas McMahon, with Fr John Armitage preaching with other priests who have been part of the life of the Community and school concelebrating. The Mass, for us, truly reflected the Community as Easter people, living a life of love and hope, echoed by the wonderful sound of the school choir and the chance to sing familiar hymns, including St Francis’s prayer for peace. For many Old Fishes the Community’s move from New Hall was like a parent leaving the family home, traumatic and unsettling.
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This Mass would surely have given Old Fishes a true understanding of the Community’s move into new areas reaching out to people beyond the bounds of New Hall and education. Following Mass a good number of Old Fishes bridging many generations met at 51 Buckingham Gate to reminisce and catch up. It was lovely to see so many former staff and pupils laughing and chatting with the Community. Many Old Fishes left wanting more! Please see the website for more details of other events planned and how to keep in touch: www.canonesses.co.uk Many thanks to everyone who contributed to making the day so memorable.
WESTMINSTER
Westminster Worship, Welcome, Way Eucharist, Energising Solemn, Singing, Students Thanksgiving, Testimony, Truth Memorable, Music, Ministers Inclusive, Innovative, Impressive New Testament, Neighbours Spirit, Serving, Sharing Treasures, Today, Tomorrow Excitement, Enthusiasm Resurrection, Remembrance, Relatives
Cathedral Chalice, Community, Companions Association, Arches, Appreciation Teaching, Travels Hawley, Hospitality, Humanity Encounters, Enriching, Ecumenical Declaration, Diversity Religious, Reflection, Real Alleluia Life By S. Mary Gabriel
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”
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or me it was such a wonderful experience to see so many Old Fishes return for a special occasion, including my Mum and Auntie! It made me realise what a special place New Hall is, and a place that can’t be forgotten.”
Fleur Langford
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” thought it was lovely except for the weather! Standing outside, catching up with the Nuns and past (and present staff) was a joyful time even though it was mighty chilly. The service was beautiful and I especially liked the procession with the ‘artefacts’ and learning more about the history of the Order. The Order of Service with the timeline along the bottom was a great idea.”
Melanie Bruce ”
T
he intense diary of celebrations for our 370th Anniversary of our Foundation is strongly marking for me the speed of time passing, the transience of time; within that, the importance of each person and value of every life in our past - of which only fractional eruptions are known; the precious opportunities in our gatherings in this year to acknowledge with delight and admiration people related in so many different ways with each other in recent history and this present time, rejoicing in the courage of each life lived and being lived; and in that joy and gratitude looking with interest, hope and absolute confidence towards the future however that may be for us in the continuing truth, fidelity and loving purposes of our God of and beyond all time.”
S. Stephanie
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”
he Mass at Westminster Cathedral was very inspiring. We have shared the joy of life past and present and the works of service of the Community. For many people it was another occasion to be reunited; an occasion to pray together and to meet with family; with the wider Association; an occasion for the Sisters to think about the future. God bless all of you for your contribution towards making all these events a success.”
S. Véronique (visiting from the Congo)
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”
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hank you for inviting me to share in your 370th celebrations. The bond that unites everyone who has had contact with you, especially at New Hall, was almost tangible.
I
” was so pleased to have been part of your 370th Anniversary celebrations. It was all beautifully done with wonderful singing. Mgr Armitage hit the right note and brought out your charism splendidly. How good to see a link with the past in the person of Lord Petre.”
The Liturgy was well paced, with time for solemnity, joy, and time for reflection. The highlight for me was the Offertory Procession with its quiet dignity reminding us we are all part of a bigger picture.”
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”
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”
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e would like to thank the Community and the team of helpers for the splendid and outstanding celebration. It had everything we associate with New Hall - beautiful music, solemnity mixed with joy, energy, a sense of history and a confident look into the future. The Order of Service was a joy in itself!”
hank you so much for all you did to make Saturday a wonderful day for so many people. I shall never forget it. I felt so very privileged to have been a Fish at New Hall. The things I remember about the day were you asking us to introduce ourselves to someone sitting near. I met Sister Ann’s relations who live very near us. And most of all to see dear John, your loyal server of many years leading the procession down that long aisle.”
T
T
hank you so much for such a wonderful day on 27th April - the organisation was SUPERB, everything went off so smoothly. We loved meeting up with those we had not met for ‘many a year’, listening to the music, the readers, watching the Offertory Procession, seeing the Prep School taking part - all magnificent. Thank you for inviting us.”
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sincere thank you for a magnificent celebration at Westminster, for your 370th anniversary. I am sure you must be thrilled with the attendance. For myself, I feel both proud and privileged that for 20+ years of my life I have been able to contribute in a small part to your history.
WESTMINSTER
A selection of the messages received following the Thanksgiving Service
hank you so much for inviting me to join in the Celebration Mass yesterday. It was lovely to see you all as ever welcoming attention to detail and a really worthy gathering of people from every area of your lives - well done to the team!
The choir were brilliant - lovely to hear the male voices to produce a truly superb sound - sung prayerfully. The afternoon was a true reunion of past and present. THANK YOU ALL. “
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It was good to meet so many people, even if only for a short time. I feel a celebration of this nature is a bit like a foretaste of heaven, when the reunion with those we have known in life will be endless.“
”
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e very much enjoyed the service at Westminster Cathedral on Saturday, what a great gathering! It was good to meet with many old colleagues, friends and students from many years. What a pity we could not talk to everyone but nevertheless, it was a delightful occasion.”
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”
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wanted to say a very big thank you for the most wonderful Mass last Saturday. The music was heavenly.”
A
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great honour to be asked to read from the extant diary about the foundation of the Order of the Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre, in front of nearly a thousand people. Gosh! (And I am Anglican!).”
”
T
hanks for my ticket to Westminster Cathedral on 27th April, it was for me a memorable occasion. What a lot of work went into that lovely Mass. God bless and thank you so much.”
”
T
hank you for inviting me, and to be accompanied by my wife, to the wonderful Mass on Saturday which we thoroughly enjoyed. I have always considered myself to be one of New Hall’s oldest Old Boys even if I only attended the Kindergarten class at Newnham before you returned home to New Hall.“
”
I
t was a great privilege to join with you in your celebration last Saturday in the splendid setting of Westminster Cathedral. What a remarkable achievement it has been over the past 370 years, and the multi generational and ethnicity of the huge congregation bore witness to the wonderful dedication of you all and your predecessors, and the marvellous example your lives have been to generations of girls. The Mass had all the hallmarks of your involvement carried out (almost choreographed) with precision with extremely high quality music. During the service I recalled all the many dear nuns who had helped or influenced me - and my mother and my daughter - over the years, and gave thanks that we were all so fortunate to have been fishes at New Hall.”
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T
”
his Mass brings many people from different cities and different countries! It was a real communion of various ages too. Our students at New Hall School sing very well. The homily of Fr John explains the history of Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre. Everyone loves it. In short, it was a major celebration of 370 years of Foundation. It was truly inspiring for me and for a lot of people I think. So, congratulations and big thanks to you all who prepared this ceremony, so beautifully.”
At the informal gathering later:
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”
ne of my lasting memories is of Stephanie surrounded by her beloved and animated and now grown up Campions (Berdie, Sonja, Anne, etc).”
WESTMINSTER
Homily 370th Anniversary
Canonesses Of The Holy Sepulchre Homily by Monsignor John Armitage Westminster Cathedral 27th April 2013 When you look up in the Cathedral what do you see? • The most predominant feature is the cross.
Jesus, but they had struggled to understand their full meaning.
But there is something behind the cross?
•
• It is the mosaic of the resurrected Christ. We should not be surprised by this, for this reflects a reality in our lives, • Because in life very often our experience of the cross is sometimes stronger than that of the resurrection!
The gospel tells us the story of the Women arriving at the tomb ... ...the angels say to the bewildered women, “why look among the dead for one who is alive? He is not here, he is risen!” •
There is often confusion among the followers of Jesus, in his post Resurrection appearances. When the women return, the apostles thought their story “seemed like pure nonsense” and Peter himself runs to the tomb, and leaves amazed, pondering at what had happened. • In
his time with them they had heard the words of
They were overwhelmed by Good Friday, and they continued to “look among the dead..”
This impact on the followers of Jesus ... ...is clearly shown in one of the most powerful post Resurrection stories, - The road to Emmaus. •
The disciples are crushed by the experience of Good Friday. They cannot believe the story of the women. • They
are downcast, even the words of Jesus, as he walked along the road with them, did not lead them to lift up their heads. • But something happened at the crossroads, this stranger, who they have so far ignored, is going forward on his own, •
The night is falling, and it is dangerous, so they say to him “stay with us”. • St Gregory the Great’s commentary on this story says. “In his teaching, as he walked alongside them.. their eyes were not opened, but it was in carrying out his teaching, that they saw the light.” • It
was this act of love, that opened their eyes, and they recognised The Lord Jesus, the one who had risen from the dead.
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Do not look among the dead •
Do not look amongst your fears, your despair, your lack of love and faith, for one who is alive! •
They broke bread, and He explains the scriptures to them, and this happened because they had acted out of love. •
They came to understand because, of their charity towards a stranger. •
From this Eucharistic act of sharing the word and the bread, their eyes were opened.
This is why today we celebrate this Eucharist... ...our act of thanksgiving, within the Holy sacrifice of the Mass, • That our eyes may be opened to the ONE who is no longer dead but alive!
370 years ago a group of English women... ...living in difficult times, were inspired by the faith and courage of Susan Hawley. •
of the Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre has been weaknesses and frailties, the service of love, will always lead us to the experience of The Lord in the Eucharist. •
Like the Women of the gospel, the Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre have felt their hearts burning within them as they shared the bread of life and have the scriptures explained to them. Our celebration today is not about 370 years of buildings, as fine and inspiring as those buildings may be, but today we celebrate the human stories of these women, who, inspired by the Resurrection of Jesus, have dedicated their lives in the service of God’s people. • At some stage in each of our lives, through an encounter with the risen one, our “hearts have burned within us” and from that fire we develop a great desire and a longing to respond to this encounter.
In his poem “The Secret of the Sea” Longfellow tells us of a man “whose soul was full of longing” for the sea. It goes...
On the 8th October 1642, the day she was professed, Susan Hawley, together with three others, arrived in Liège to found a convent of Canonesses of the Holy Sepulchre, continuing a line of religious life founded by the Canons of the Holy Sepulchre, in the Holy Land in 1114.
“Now...he heard the ancient helmsman Chant a song so wild and clear, Till his soul was full of longing, And he cried, with impulse strong,-“Helmsman! for the love of heaven, Teach me, too, that wondrous song!” “Wouldst thou,”--so the helmsman answered, “Learn the secret of the sea? Only those who brave its dangers comprehend its mystery!”
• The Community was founded so that English girls could have the education they could not have in England, and that Catholic women would be able to join a Religious Order. • These women found in the Life and Resurrection of Jesus, a hope, and a light, to enlighten their own lives, and the lives of the girls they would teach.
In the Constitutions of the Canonesses it states:
•
•
Great suffering and challenges, they would surely encounter in their own particular experience of Calvary, but it was in the Holy Sepulchre, the empty tomb, that they found the answer to the questions that had challenged them.
The pilgrimage, to the Holy Sepulchre, taken by Christians for 2000 years
“We ought to live, as fully as possible, the mystery of the Church, vitally linked with the local Church and its bishop, within the universal church.” •
Women and men, down the ages, have “cried with impulse strong” to comprehend the mystery of the Body of Christ, which is the church.
Jesus! For the love of heaven. Teach me, too, that wondrous song! Wouldst thou, so the Master answered Learn the secret of your life. Only those who brave its dangers Comprehend its mystery!
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Can be a physical journey, but more importantly it is a personal pilgrimage of faith, and this journey from Calvary to the empty tomb is a journey which encounters... • The great sacrifice - the great love - which is the cross, •
To the great life - which is the Resurrection. • Each generation needs to be reminded of this journey, and the charism
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In order to “understand the mystery” you have to brave the dangers. •
It takes a lifetime of fidelity, communion, worship and loving service to comprehend the mystery
For the mystery of the Church is “why look among the dead for one who is alive. He is not here, he has risen!”
Today we celebrate the Women who have braved the dangers by going to the Holy Sepulchre ... ...as an act of love, and from the darkness of their
frailties and weaknesses, they have had an encounter that has inspired them to live their life for Christ, and how in the midst of this dangerous journey, the mystery of the Church has unfolded as they have attempted to comprehend the life of Jesus Christ and the proclamation of the Resurrection.
•
And we remember with great love and gratitude those Sisters, who are prayed for each day at the Divine office, and all former pupils and members of staff who have died.
WESTMINSTER
•
Yet in the lives of the present Community of Sisters... ...this journey from darkness to light continues in a new way today. The Pascal spirituality of the Community continues as a sign of hope in our world, especially for people who are living in the “shadow of death” in situations of oppression and degradation. It is a witness in challenging situations where the fullness of life is being threaten or has been taken away.
Pope Francis in his Easter homily encourages those who encounter a new direction in life “When something new happens in our everyday life, we stop short we don’t understand, we don’t know what to do. Newness often makes us fearful, including the newness that God brings, the newness that God asks of us. We are like the apostles in the gospel: often we would like to hold on to our own security, to stand in front of the tomb, to think about someone who has died, someone who ultimately, lives on only as a memory, like the great historical figures of the past. We are afraid of God’s surprises! For He always surprises us”
This Pascal spirituality, of moving from darkness to light, has been lived in a very special way by the commitment to education which has been the great work of the Canonesses since their foundation. This common life together, was inspired by the early Christian community, where they remained faithful to the teaching of the apostles.
This communion of love and life... ...has in a most inspirational way, been shared with young women at New Hall School, since its foundation in 1799 for where the values and the shared life of the early Christian community, has been lived, and continues to be lived and celebrated today, inspired by the charism of the resurrection, embodied in the lives of the Sisters in the past, and today, in the lay staff who continue this great spirit of the Resurrection, inviting their pupils to “not look among the dead, for one who is alive!” •
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This great tradition of Catholic education built upon the generosity and faith of so many Sisters and co-workers is an aspect of the life of the Catholic community in which the whole diocese of Brentwood truly rejoices, and is justly proud.
It is wonderful to see today’s school community, girls and boys, and former pupils, the “famous Fishes” and so many parents and supporters here at this Mass today,
In the end the mystery of the after life can only be understood by an encounter with the Resurrected Christ. “Nothing remains as it was before, not only in the lives of those women, but also in our own lives and in the history of mankind. Jesus is not dead, he has risen, and he is alive! He does not simply return to life; rather, he is life itself, because he is the Son of God, the living God “Jesus no longer belongs to the past, but lives in the present and is projected towards the future; he is the everlasting “today” of God.”Therefore let the risen Jesus enter your life, welcome him as a friend, with trust: he is life! If up till now you have kept him at a distance, step forward. He will receive you with open arms. If you have been indifferent, take a risk: you won’t be disappointed. If following him seems difficult, don’t be afraid, trust him, be confident that he is close to you, he is with you and he will give you the peace you are looking for and the strength to live as he would have you do.” Thus you will understand the mystery of the words of the angels to the women at the Holy Sepulchre. “Why look among the dead, for one who is alive. He is here. He is Risen!”
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370th Finale We end the celebratory year with a Thanksgiving Service on 5th October 2013 at Chelmsford Cathedral
Founded 1642
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