On Tuesday 4th July our Year 7s had the opportunity to enjoy a full-day Retreat at both of Liverpool’s iconic Cathedrals.
The entire Year Group took part and travelled from school to begin the day at the Anglican Cathedral. Built over a period of 74 years, this enormous building contains numerous sections and chapels on a huge scale. Our Chaplain, Tom Murray, and some of the RE department led small groups in exploring some of the features of the Cathedral such as the Lady Chapel (the oldest section of the building), the Remembrance Memorial, the Chapter House, and the Chapel of the Holy Spirit. The most eagle-eyed students even managed to spot the illusive Cathedral Mouse hidden in the Education Centre!
Despite being constantly serenaded by singing from local primary schools practicing for that afternoon’s ‘Big Sing’, it would later become clear that the students had paid close attention to the information they were given!
After an al fresco lunch in the Cathedral grounds, the students made the walk along the iconic Hope street, resplendent in the midday sun, towards the unique structure of ‘Paddy’s Wigwam’ – Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral. Here, half the group were given a comprehensive guided tour of the features of this modernist 1960s building, whilst half enjoyed a reflection in the Sacred Heart Chapel.
As Tom posed questions based on the morning’s experiences, there was a clamour to answer and be rewarded with edible prizes! The students were invited to consider the relationship between the Cathedrals, especially the impact these two faith communities have had on removing division and encouraging dialogue and compassionate action across our cosmopolitan city. They looked at how they can work to be agents for change in a world so in need of social justice.
After both groups had had their tour and reflection, it was time to make the short journey back to Collegel. We are so lucky to have two Cathedrals (“one to spare”, as the song goes!) on our doorstep. But they are far more than just impressive and interesting feats of architecture. They represent the culture of collaboration, compassion, welcome and hospitality for which the city is famous across the world. May they be an inspiration to this generation of future leaders.
