Today the school marked the Feast of the Sacred Heart with a number of boys making their First Holy Communion. Monsignor Phelim was the celebrant at Mass and his homily touched on the spiritual significance of receiving Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. I think it is true that everyone who has done so remembers their First Communion Day; famously, Napoleon Bonaparte recorded that it was the happiest day of his life. I reminded the boys that the pelican, placed at the top of the Baldacchino has long been used to represent the figure of Christ. The pelican was believed to pierce its own breast to feed its young of its blood, just as Our Lord feeds us with Himself in Holy Communion. The music was beautiful, the sun was shining and the food and drink at the reception was delectable – a truly joyous occasion.
Parents will know that the nursery which opened last September has proved to be very popular. Anticipating that capacity would be reached by September 2024, I applied to the Department of Education for a Material Change allowing St Anthony’s to increase the number of children admitted to the nursery. I am delighted to report that the DfE has now granted this request and plans are now being finalised for renovations to the ground floor of the Junior House, to take place over the summer holidays. More details to follow shortly.
Wishing everyone a relaxing weekend.
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