This week, we had our 2nd Hallam pilgrimage to Padley. 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, 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. After Mass, Fr Christian prayed with us, blessed us and sprinkled us with Holy water before sending us on our way. We made our way to Pond Street bus station, where we met with the students and staff from All Saints school. One of our Y10 students, Caoimhe led us in prayer and reflection and Agnes in Y8 sang a version Pie Jesu, which was just beautiful. Afterwards, there was applause from passengers waiting to get on the bus! They were treated to a private performance.
We travelled to Fox House alongside staff and students from All Saints, filling the top deck of the public bus!
At Fox House, we walked the short journey to Longshaw Estate where we met the other students, Chaplains and staff from the other Hallam Catholic secondary schools. We took a short rest at Longshaw Estate and began our walk towards Padley Chapel. Though the walk was only a couple of miles, the journey was full of chatting, laughter, and prayer.
On arriving at Padley Chapel, we were warmly greeted by Padley volunteers and Mr Gerard Bonner, former Notre Dame History teacher, Head of Sixth Form, and current school governor. Mr Bonner shared the 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 Peter Scally as the celebrant. The Mass was deeply moving and a great moment of faith, unity, and thanksgiving. After Mass, we enjoyed a much needed lunch. Students spent time chatting, making new friends, and simply soaking in the peace of this holy ground. The sun was shining on us and there was not a rain cloud in the sky.
Before parting ways, our group managed one final treat, ice cream. With happy faces, and full stomachs, we made our way to the train for our journey back to Sheffield.
A huge and heartfelt ‘thank you’ goes out to everyone who made this special day possible: Fr Peter, Sue McDonald, Gerard Bonner, friends of Padley, 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.
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
