In this special Year of Pilgrimage, as declared by the late Pope Francis, students from across the Hallam Diocese came together in a joyful spirit of faith and community for a pilgrimage to Padley. Representing Notre Dame High School, Suzanne and Mr McHugh joined a lively group of Year 7 and Year 8 Chaplaincy Team students at St Marie’s Cathedral to begin their journey.
The day began with morning Mass in the Cathedral and what beautiful start to our pilgrimage. Afterwards, students had the chance to explore the Cathedral and offer their own prayers before we made our way to the bus station. We travelled to Fox House alongside staff and students from All Saints, filling the top deck of the public bus with laughter and song. Led by Theo, who brought his microphones and speakers, the group sang their hearts out in worship with some of the old classics, Shine Jesus Shine, Be Still for the Presence of the Lord, and Give Me Joy in My Heart. The atmosphere was joyful to say the least!
At Fox House, we joined students and staff from other Hallam Catholic secondary schools and began our walk through the Longshaw Estate towards Padley Chapel. Though the walk was only a couple of miles, the journey was full of chatting, laughter, and the kind of shared joy that makes memories last a lifetime.
On arriving at Padley Chapel, we were warmly greeted by volunteers Maria and Mr Gerard Bonner, former Notre Dame History teacher, Head of Sixth Form, and current school governor. Mr Bonner shared the powerful story of Padley Chapel and its significance, reminding us of the sacrifice of the Padley martyrs, Robert Ludlam and Nicholas Garlick. Walking in their footsteps was both humbling and inspiring.
We were truly blessed to celebrate Mass outdoors in this sacred setting, with Fr Lee as the main celebrant. The Mass was deeply moving and an unforgettable moment of faith, unity, and thanksgiving. After Mass, with spirits lifted and stomachs rumbling, we enjoyed a much needed lunch. Students spent time chatting, making new friends, exploring the chapel, and simply soaking in the peace of this holy ground.
Before parting ways, our group managed one final treat, ice cream from the famous Grindleford Café! With happy faces, we made our way to the train for our journey back to Sheffield.
A heartfelt thanks goes out to everyone who made this special day possible: Fr Lee, Sue McDonald, Gerard Bonner, Maria, the Hallam Chaplains and all staff and students involved, and those working behind the scenes. Your dedication and love and care helped make this pilgrimage a joyful and spiritual experience.
May this Year of Pilgrimage continue to inspire us to walk in faith, together.
God bless our Hallam Schools, our parents, carers, other family members, and all people linked in any way to our Notre Dame school community.
Suzanne
“We are pilgrims on a journey,
fellow travellers on the road;
we are here to help each other
walk the mile and bear the load.”
