Advent

Advent is a very important period in our Church’s Liturgical Calendar, and as such we approach this Holy Season with reverence and Humility at St. Benedict’s Catholic High School. During three of the weeks of Advent, we come together with rest of the global Church to prepare for the birth of the Messiah, Jesus. In addition to observing traditional customs, we also allocate time to reflect on, offer prayers for, and provide practical support to those in our community who are most in need, approaching these opportunities with humility.

Annual Advent Service

Every year we come together with our local Catholic feeder Primary School’s at one of our local Parishes to enter the season of Advent together. During this service each school offers a performance of some kind, be it a hymn, poem, or presentation. The event is well attended by schools, parishioners, and parents.

Annual Carol Service

Each year we host our annual Carol Service in school. This is one of the highlights of our Advent Preparation with staff and students of all ages getting involved in the festivities. The performances in our concert are formed around our advent readings and feature a variety of talents. Parents are invited to the service to share in our joy as a community of faith.

Mary’s Baby Shower Celebration

Each year our Sixth Form Catholic Leadership Team organises our Annual Baby Shower celebration for Our Lady. The event helps our Sixth Form students develop a more practical understanding of Advent and Christmas whilst also helping some of the most vulnerable people in our local community.

For this event, we have partnered with charities such as Baby Basics, a charity committed to helping new mothers and fathers in need who aren’t able to afford the essentials for their baby, and North Lakes Foodbank, who support our local families. Students attend the event to celebrate the coming of Jesus, and bring a gift for Jesus & Mary, which is then donated to these charities who use the donations to help those in need.

During the event there is a period of guided reflection & prayer led by our Sixth Form Leadership Team, and a talk from Baby Basics about the work they do.