Welcoming Our New Holy Father – Pope Leo

It is with great joy and reverence that I write to you today as the Catholic world welcomes our new Holy Father, Pope Leo. In these times of global uncertainty and spiritual need, the election of a new pope brings renewed hope, unity, and direction for our faith.

Pope Leo, taking the name of a great line of pontiffs before him, reminds us of the rich tradition and continuity of the Church. We especially remember Pope Leo the Great, whose wisdom and courage helped shape the Church in its early days. We now pray that Pope Leo will be guided by the same Holy Spirit as he begins his papal ministry.

As a Catholic school, this is a special moment to reflect on the role of the papacy and the importance of leadership rooted in service, compassion, and truth. In Celebration Assembly today children reflected on the significance of the Pope and celebrating this historic moment with prayer and thanksgiving.

 Let us unite in prayer as a school community:

"May the Lord bless Pope Leo with wisdom and strength. May he be a shepherd after Christ’s own heart, leading the Church with faith, hope, and love. Amen."

Next week, our Year 6 pupils will be taking their national SATs, and we want to take this opportunity to wish them all the very best.

Our children have worked incredibly hard throughout their journey at St John’s, which has included the disruption of COVID. The children have showed focus, determination, and a positive attitude to their learning. These assessments are just one part of their school journey, and we are proud of everything they have achieved so far.

We encourage families to support children by ensuring they are well-rested, eat a good breakfast (still time to join the Year 6 Big Breakfast if they haven’t yet signed up) and arrive at school on time each day. Most importantly, we remind our pupils that all we ask is for them to try their best—they are already a credit to themselves and to our school.

Let’s keep Year 6 in our thoughts and prayers as they take this important step with confidence and courage.

Finally, a reminder that our next Children’s Mass takes place this Sunday at 10:30am at St John the Baptist Church. This is a wonderful opportunity for pupils to lead and participate in the liturgy through readings, singing, and prayer. It is always a joyous celebration!

Everyone is warmly welcome—please join us to support and celebrate our children as they grow in faith.

With every blessing,

Mrs O’Rourke

Headteacher