Thursday 16th April, 2026

Pupils and staff from St Bernadette House joined our local parish community for Mass at the Church of St Mary’s – Our Lady of Reparation in West Croydon. The Mass was celebrated by Fr Leszek Szadowski, who warmly welcomed our pupils and acknowledged this special occasion as the feast day of their patron saint, St Bernadette.

St Bernadette holds a special significance for students in Bernadette House as a powerful and relatable role model of faith, humility, and perseverance. As a young peasant girl who experienced 18 visions of Our Lady at Lourdes, Bernadette’s life reminds us that God calls people of all ages and backgrounds to play a part in His plan. Her story encourages young people to trust in God, even in the face of doubt, questioning, or peer pressure.

Why St Bernadette is Important to Our Students

• A Saint for Young People
  Bernadette was just 14 years old when the apparitions began, making her an inspiring and relatable example of courage and faith for young people today.

• Humility and Simplicity
  Despite worldwide attention, Bernadette remained humble and obedient, choosing a life of prayer and service even when challenged or ridiculed.

• A Role Model in Suffering
  Living with poor health throughout her life, including asthma and later tuberculosis, Bernadette endured suffering with quiet faith, making her a patron saint of the sick and those who are suffering.

• The Power of Prayer
  The Rosary played a central role in Bernadette’s visions, reminding us of the importance of prayer as a source of strength and comfort.

• Childlike Faith
  Her life highlights the value of simple, trusting faith, reinforcing the message that God works powerfully through the humble and the pure of heart.

This celebration was an opportunity for our school community to reflect on the virtues of St Bernadette and to deepen our faith together.