Beccy Roseman, Lay Chaplain Co Ordinator for the Kenelm Youth Trust reflected on the Chaplaincy Commissioning Mass held at St Mary's College Oscott following Adoremus.

We were so delighted to host our annual Chaplaincy Commissioning Mass at St Mary’s College, Oscott on Monday 16th September.

Having run for the last 10 years at St Chad’s Cathedral we could not have been more excited to be invited to host our day at Oscott this year.

Following a spiritually enriching weekend exploring at the Eucharistic Congress, Adoremus, 23 Lay Chaplain’s and Chaplaincy Teams from all over the Archdiocese gathered together to be commissioned in the vital role they play within our schools.

The Kenelm Youth Trust (KYT), Oscott College and the Catholic Bishops Conference worked together to construct an informative and inspirational day, that would not only capture the commitment of our young people and lay chaplains in Holy Mass, but also energise and motivate them to continue their outstanding work through thoughtful workshop times and moments of gathering. With a focus on Vocation the day aimed to give our young people and staff a real insight into the life of the College. 

The day commenced with a beautiful celebration of Holy Mass, led by Canon Michael Dolman, the Rector of Oscott College, and animated by the wonderful talent of Jo Boyce. The liturgy truly captured the presence of Christ at work within our young people and in our schools.

Once we were all spiritually nourished, we were all ready to nourish our bellies! What better way to fuel ourselves for the rest of the day than cake?

We enjoyed sharing together in the stunning grounds of Oscott, made even more delightful by the warmth of the sunshine. Replenished both spiritual and physically, we were ready for an exciting afternoon jam-packed with activities designed to challenge, inspire, and obviously to have fun! 

Our wonderful seminarians guided and accompanied the groups on an exclusive tour of their home, Oscott College, which was a wonderful opportunity to learn about formation for the priesthood.

KYT also hosted a Q&A discussion panel, where young people were given the rare opportunity to question a seminarian, deacon and priest on anything from whether they share a room to why women can’t be priests. 

As if we weren’t treated enough, Jacquie Spencer facilitated the ‘Blessed Carlo Acutis Eucharistic Miracles Encounter’ experience, bringing Bl. Carlo, his story, and his love of the Eucharist to us. There was even the opportunity to venerate his Relic. 

Filled with a renewed sense of purpose, hope, and joy, the Lay Chaplains and chaplaincy teams returned to their schools, ready to begin their mission for the year ahead, feeling truly blessed and re-energised.

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