Hero photograph
Chapel of St Bede - 2019
 
Photo by Frank Visser - commissioned by The Building Intelligence Group

From the Rector

Mr Justin Boyle —

Greetings from St Bede’s,

Week one of the final term concluded and today we welcomed the new intake for the 2021 year for their induction and testing. We hosted their parents for a social event last night as well, and the new boarders had a sleepover to help get them used to the idea of life here at St Bede's.

At the end of last term we appointed Mr Diarmuid McMahon to a newly created position on the senior team, Assistant Rector of Wellbeing and Engagement. He has been charged with developing and implementing a wellbeing programme called Mana Tane, which means boy to man. Later in the term we will have a parent night to explain the programme, which we believe will better the pastoral needs of our boys.

While many of our students are not eligible to vote yet, I took a moment when addressing the boys at assembly, to encourage them all to consider the important issues in our country. I urged them to be informed, particularly about the issues regarding the End of Life Bill, and the legalization of cannabis, both issues that will potentially impact upon their future lives. I encouraged them to take notice, read about the issues, debate them, engage in conversations with each other and their teachers and parents, looking at all sides of the issues. In this context, I shared the view of the Catholic church as part of the discussion in regards to euthanasia, namely that life is a gift given and taken away by God alone.

Until next week,

J. G. Boyle