Educators, school leaders, governors and directors from across the Diocese gathered at Northampton Cathedral for the annual Celebration of Catholic Education Mass, hosted by the Diocesan Education Service.
The Mass was celebrated by Canon Christopher Perry, who presided and preached the homily, giving thanks for the vital ministry of Catholic education and the many individuals who dedicate themselves to nurturing faith, learning and service within our schools.
During the celebration, foundation directors and governors serving in Catholic schools and academy trusts across the Diocese were formally commissioned for their ministry. Their commitment to supporting the Catholic life and mission of our schools was recognised as they renewed their dedication to serving Christ and the Church through education.
A highlight of the Mass was the presentation of Certificates in Catholic Religious Studies (CCRS) to six recipients. The CCRS is a nationally recognised qualification that provides participants with a deeper understanding of Catholic theology, education and practice, equipping them to contribute more fully to the mission of Catholic schools.
Awards were also presented to individuals whose service has made a significant contribution to Catholic education within the Diocese.
The In Fidelitate Servitio (“In Faithful Service”) Award was presented to Catherine Davies, who recently stepped aside as Chair of Directors of the St Thomas Catholic Academy Trust. Throughout her tenure, Catherine provided dedicated leadership and unwavering commitment to the flourishing of Catholic education, helping to strengthen and support schools across the Trust.
The same award was presented to Briane Greene, who has recently concluded his service as Vice-Chair of the Duns Scotus Catholic Academy Trust. His faithful service and commitment to the mission of Catholic education have been deeply valued by colleagues and school communities alike.
A particularly special moment came with the presentation of the Benemerenti Medal to Bernie Grimley in recognition of her outstanding contribution to Catholic education over nearly four decades. Since beginning his service in Catholic education in 1987, Bernie has served in a variety of roles, touching the lives of countless pupils, staff and families through her dedication and witness.
The Benemerenti Medal is one of the Church’s distinguished honours awarded by the Holy Father to members of the clergy and laity in recognition of long and exceptional service to the Catholic Church. Established by Pope Gregory XVI in 1832, the medal acknowledges those whose commitment and generosity have made a significant and lasting contribution to the life and mission of the Church. Bernie’s award is a fitting tribute to her remarkable years of faithful service.
Music throughout the liturgy was beautifully led by the choir of St Thomas Becket Catholic School, whose prayerful and uplifting singing enhanced the celebration and reflected the rich tradition of Catholic worship within our schools.
In his homily, Canon Christopher reflected on the fundamental mission of Catholic education and the responsibility shared by all who serve within it. He reminded the congregation that:
“The great work of Catholic education is that each of us is called to promote and to defend [the truth] and that is the mandate we have received from Christ himself who is our teacher. To work tirelessly, to give of ourselves completely, so that the truth may be made known.”
His words provided a powerful encouragement to all present, affirming that Catholic education is far more than academic excellence alone; it is a participation in Christ’s mission of forming young people in truth, faith and love.
The Celebration of Catholic Education Mass offered an opportunity not only to recognise achievement and service, but also to give thanks for the dedication of all those who contribute to the mission of Catholic education across the Diocese. Through their witness and commitment, Catholic schools continue to proclaim the Gospel and help young people encounter Christ, who remains the true Teacher and source of all wisdom.
