“Sacraments are ‘powers that come forth’ from the Body of Christ, which is ever-living and life-giving. They are actions of the Holy Spirit at work in his Body, the Church. They are ‘the masterworks of God’ in the new and everlasting covenant.”   Catechism of the Catholic Church

As a College rooted in the Catholic faith, we draw our life and strength from the Sacraments of the Church. Since its foundation in 1933, St. Anselm’s has been a place of formal Catholic worship—first through the ministry of the Christian Brothers, and now with the support of visiting priests. Our Chapel, a consecrated space for the celebration of Mass and Reservation of the Blessed Sacrament, lies at the heart of College life. It is both a physical reminder of our Charism, linking us to the Christian Brothers, and a spiritual space where our community is continually renewed in faith through worship.

The Mass

The celebration of Mass follows a regular rhythm at St. Anselm’s. Each week, Mass is offered on a rotating cycle of form groups, with intentions drawn from both our College community and the wider Church. During the summer months, Mass may also be celebrated outdoors on the Outwood lawn.

In addition to weekly celebrations, special Masses mark key moments in our College year. These include the Year 7 Welcome Mass, the Year 13 Leavers’ Mass, and the College Feast Day Mass. On these occasions, students, staff, governors, and parents gather together in worship. Other important celebrations include the Anselmian Remembrance Mass each November, the SVP Mass on the Feast of St. Vincent de Paul, and Masses at the beginning and end of the academic year during staff Inset days. Each of these moments reflects the unity of our College in faith and community.

Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Reconciliation also holds an important place within College life. While it does not follow a fixed yearly schedule, opportunities for Confession are provided as widely as possible for form and year groups, particularly during the penitential seasons of Advent and Lent.

Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation is coordinated through the parishes of the Birkenhead Deanery rather than directly through the College. Students in Year 8 and above are invited to participate, with preparation typically involving several months of formation before the Sacrament is celebrated around Easter.  The College shares details of this opportunity with families at the appropriate time of year. If you would like your child to be considered for Confirmation, please contact our Chaplain at akearney@st-anselms.com