Pupils pledge their support to the Pope

Published on isbi School News dated Friday 22nd of October 2010

Six pupils from a Spinkhill school were chosen to join the Pope for an historic celebration event during his Papal visit to the UK.

The students were invited to join his Holiness Pope Benedict XVI for the Big Assembly, as part of the inauguration of the John Paul II Foundation for Sport at St Mary's Catholic University College, Twickenham.

Helen Chapman, Harry Chapman, Joe Tetley, Kit Watts, Erin Williams and Elisabeth Massarella from Mount St Mary's College, were selected for the ticket only event, making a pledge to the Pope.

The students were chosen because of their sporting excellence and commitment to the college. Year eight pupil, Erin Williams is a member of the GB Equestrian Team and Joe Tetley, year 11, represents Yorkshire County Cricket Club.

The event celebrated Catholic education in the UK and the proceedings followed the format of a school assembly, with hymns, prayers, a religious blessing and an address from Pope Benedict XVI.

Laurence McKell, headmaster at Mount St Mary's College, said: 'It was inspiring to see so many young people from all over the country joining together to celebrate the theme of 'living life to the full' whilst praising those who help provide safe environments for children to learn in.

'We were honored that our students were invited to this historic event in celebration of the Catholic religion. The students all had a memorable experience and felt inspired to achieve their goals.'