As always, the weekly prayer service, led by Mrs O’Neill and the Prayer Group Committee, meets in the oratory this morning at 8.45am. This is an important and valued part of our school week, when pupils, staff, parents and parishioners come together to offer their thanks and requests to God.

Those attending this morning’s prayer service are in for a real surprise: the oratory has been completely refurbished over the past week. The room has been painted, a new ‘Last Supper’ altar backdrop hung and beautiful ‘stained glass windows’ fitted. Mrs Dolan has very kindly made cloth banners for the lectern, one for each liturgical season. Over the coming days, more subdued lighting will be added as well as new stations of the cross. The oratory is used on a daily basis by pupils, staff and parishioners and this investment provides St Bartholomew’s with a beautiful and peaceful prayer space which will serve the school community for many years to come.

Many thanks to Mrs Dolan, Mrs McBride and Mr Lynch for the time and care they put into refurbishing our oratory. It is very much appreciated by us all.