St Edmund’s College and Prep were honoured to welcome His Eminence Cardinal Vincent Nichols, Archbishop of Westminster, on Thursday 9th October to celebrate Mass on the Feast of Saint John Henry Newman.
The occasion marked the culmination of the Prep School’s 150th anniversary year and the rededication of St Hugh’s Chapel, following an extensive refurbishment generously funded by the Edmundian Association.
With the Prep School children in attendance, the congregation included alumni, former staff, parents, grandparents, governors, and College Headmaster Mr Matthew Mostyn. Together they shared in a moving celebration of faith and community. The Cardinal praised the strong Catholic spirit of the school and was particularly struck by the pupils’ reverence and engagement.
“The quality of the children’s singing was uplifting – a true expression of joy and faith,” one guest remarked, echoing the many warm comments received about both the music and the children’s conduct.
Following Mass and the rededication of the Chapel, the Cardinal took questions from Form Six pupils and members of the Chaplaincy Group. With warmth and openness, he reflected on his vocation, sharing his favourite parable, the most significant dates in the Christian calendar, and his view on the compatibility of faith and science. He also spoke about his journey to the priesthood and gave pupils a rare insight into the Papal Conclave.
The visit concluded with joy and gratitude, as the Cardinal commended the pupils’ intellectual curiosity, thoughtful questions, and contribution to the liturgy.
Head of St Edmund’s Prep, Mr Steven Cartwright, said:
“The staff and I could not have been prouder of the children, or more moved by the Cardinal’s presence and the esteemed group of guests we had the privilege of welcoming. The occasion was one that will live long in both mind and spirit.”
The day was a fitting tribute to the Prep School’s 150-year history and its ongoing mission to nurture faith, learning, and community for generations to come.
Find out more about the St Edmund’s Prep school here.