Pope Francis RIP

On Tuesday morning, the first day of the new term, pupils and staff gathered for a whole-school assembly to reflect on the life and legacy of Pope Francis and to pray for the repose of his soul. This assembly formed part of a global response to the death of Pope Francis on Monday, 21 April 2025, at the age of 88. His death marks the conclusion of a papacy defined by humility, compassion, and a deep commitment to social justice—particularly for the marginalized and the poor.

The whole-school assembly was a moment of reverence and reflection, commemorating Pope Francis’ extraordinary legacy and reaffirming the values he championed: love, service, and community. The gathering featured prayers, readings from his writings, and a short CAFOD film on his life and teachings. Godiva, our Head Girl, shared a moving reflection on the school’s pilgrimage to Rome last year, recounting the powerful experience of attending an audience with the Pope and the lasting impact it had on those who were present. We were also pleased that the school’s Chair of Governors, Mr Bernard Tomkins was also present and was able to share his thoughts on Pope Francis with the school community.

The impact of Pope Francis on our school

Pope Francis has profoundly influenced St Mary’s and other Catholic schools nationally, helping shape not only our ethos but also our educational practices and our response to wider social issues. At the heart of his vision is the belief that Catholic schools should live out Christian values in action, not just in name. This vision aligns closely with our core values of Welcome, Hard Work, and Service.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of Catholic Social Teaching (CST) in education, urging schools to embed these principles into both their curriculum and their daily life. His message calls on school leaders to look beyond academic performance and to form young people who are compassionate, just, and dedicated to the common good.

In recent years, we at St Mary’s have dedicated significant time in collective worship, assemblies, form-time reflections, and our charitable work to explore and respond to Pope Francis’s teachings. His powerful encyclical Laudato Si’ has especially inspired our efforts in caring for creation and addressing global inequalities. Additionally, his advocacy for the marginalized—including refugees, migrants, and victims of human trafficking—resonate deeply with our mission. These values reflect CST's emphasis on the inherent dignity of every person and the preferential option for the poor.

At St Mary’s, his influence will continue to guide our community as we strive to live out his teachings with integrity and hope.

Prayer for Pope Francis

O God, faithful rewarder of souls, grant that your departed servant Pope Francis, whom you made successor of Peter and shepherd of your Church, may happily enjoy for ever in your presence in heaven the mysteries of your grace and compassion, which he faithfully ministered on earth. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Eternal rest, grant unto him O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.