CHAPLAINCY
We have an Open Door Policy at St Brigid's. No matter what stage in life we are at, all of us need some kind of support. Many students will use this facility to deal with a problem or seeking help.
Our Chaplaincy can be described under the following headings;
Ministry to the students.
Ministry to the family of the student.
Ministry to all members of staff.
Ministry to past pupils.
Ministry through the liturgy.
Through leading and organising prayer, meditation and other forms of liturgy St Brigid's reminds the students that God is with them through life and in particular through the school year.
The Chaplaincy works closely with all those involved in promoting the "Goals" of St Brigid's School linking closely with Religious Education on moral issues based upon the Catholic perspective.
The Rosary is recited in The Chapel every day at 12.35pm, and all are welcome. Reciting the Rosary every lunch time is the foundation of our school – it has been prayed in the middle of the day, every day, since the school was founded.
Ultimately, the Chaplaincy seeks to promote an awareness of the love of Christ for each member of the school community and them work together in recognising the needs both within and outside the community, helping each other to fulfil the words of Jesus Christ as written is St Matthew's Gospel:
"Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and make you welcome, naked and clothe you? When did we find you sick or in prison and go to see you?" And the King will answer, "In truth I tell you, in so far as you did this one of the lest of my brothers and sisters, you did it to me".
COLLECTIVE WORSHIP
Collective worship within St. Brigid's is valued by all pupils and members of staff. Talking the time to reflect and celebrate helps children build social skills and strategies needed in future life. These services occur daily for all pupils in a variety of settings. Pupils have whole school, departmental and class assemblies.
This time is used to reflect on the moral teachings of The Bible, reflect on current events of significance to the pupils and support leaners with personal, social and emotional situations. Learners also take part in group singing, celebration and awards assemblies.
All pupils also attend our school chapel weekly, for prayer and reflection with our chaplaincy team. They have the opportunity to take part in rosary each day. Pupils are expected to reflect and pray each morning, lunch and end of the school day within their lessons.
The Memorare
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful.
O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me.
Amen.
Hail, Holy Queen
Hail, holy Queen, mother of Mercy.
Hail, our life, our sweetness and our hope.
To thee do we cry,
poor banished children of Eve;
to thee do we send up our sighs,
mourning and weeping,
in this vale of tears.
Turn then, most gracious advocate,
thine eyes of mercy toward us;
and after this our exile, show unto us
the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
O clement, O loving,
O sweet virgin Mary.
Pray for us O Holy Mother of God,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
OUR PRAYERS
Our Father
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy will be done,
on earth, as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread
and forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
Amen
Hail Mary
Hail Mary,
Full of Grace,
The Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women,
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God,
pray for us sinners now,
and at the hour of our death.
Amen
Glory Be
Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son,
and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning, is now,
and ever shall be,
world without end.
Amen
Morning Prayer
Father in Heaven, you love me,
You’re with me night and day.
I want to love you always
In all I do and say.
I’ll try to please you, Father.
Bless me through the day.
Amen.
Evening Prayer
God our Father, I come to say
Thank you for your love today.
Thank you for my family,
And all the friends you give to me.
Guard me in the dark of night,
And in the morning send your light.
Amen.
Fatima Prayer
O my Jesus, forgive us our sins,
And save us from the fires of hell.
Lead all souls to heaven, especially those in most need of thy mercy.
Amen
Guardian Angel
Angel of God,
my guardian dear,
To whom God's love
commits me here,
Ever this day,
be at my side,
To light and guard,
Rule and guide.
Amen
Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel
Saint Michael the Archangel,
defend us in this day of battle.
Be our defence against the wickedness
and snares of the Devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou,
O Prince of the heavenly hosts,
by the power of God,
thrust into hell Satan,
and all the evil spirits,
who wander through the world
for the ruin of souls.
Amen
Sister Elizabeth Kelly
Sister Elizabeth Kelly, CSB more fondly known as "Sister Liz" was a past pupil, teacher and Headteacher of St Brigid's.
Following her retirement, she became the Chaplain for St Brigid's.
Since her passing she is still remembered by everyone at St. Brigid's. Her spirit and beliefs will always be a part of our school.
Quite simply, Sister Liz was "St Brigid's" and her personality and ethos still resonates today.