Last Thursday we enjoyed St Hilda’s Day at St Paul’s Cathedral. The students walked from school, in the rain, but were soon settled into their seats – some even in the area at the front, behind the altar. Last year this was still hidden by a large white tarpaulin as renovations were happening after the fire in 2020. These are almost complete and it is exciting to see the progress happening. The Year 9 students recently had a class visit to the Cathedral for an explore before St Hilda’s Day and it was good to be able to see this close-up.

The service began with the Kapa Haka as the Prefects and Liturgical party processed in and then we were welcomed by the Dean, Father Tony. Throughout the service the Prefects and Year 12 servers led us through prayers, the collection, and other readings while some other students found themselves involved in a skit about St Hilda as part of Father Tony’s sermon. Mrs Maw and the Board of Proprietors Chair, Andrea Chisholm gave the readings, while the choir led us beautifully in the hymns and Little Mass pieces, and the Kapa Haka sang te Karakia o te Atua. Holly Hesson gave us an ethereal rendition of Iris by the Goo Goo Dolls, which was a real highlight. The new tradition of honouring some distinguished alumni continued (see the separate article on them), while the centuries old tradition of receiving communion concluded the service.

Thanks to the Dean, the Very Revd Dr Tony Curtis and Rev Barbara Dineen, our special old girl and teacher, who prepared the service and helped everyone involved to do their parts so well.

Dr Gillian Townsley
Chaplain