Thornleigh Salesian College

The role of chaplaincy involves supporting and developing what is most precious at the heart of the school community and each person within it. In a catholic community this means placing the person at the centre of all that happens. In the words of the Gospel:

“I have come that they might have life and have it to the full”

This applies to all the school community, pupils, teaching staff as well as support staff. In a Salesian school there is a further focus on becoming a community that grows to fullness of life by caring especially for the most vulnerable and prodigal young people among its members.

Therefore the aim of the chaplaincy might be expressed as follows:

Aim

To support and develop the adults and pupils of Thornleigh College to live and work together as members of a Gospel community at the service especially of those young people most at risk among its members.

General Outcomes

Improved quality of relationships

An increase in warmth, listening, celebration of success and compassion for brokenness. An increased honesty and realism as well as the forging of long term friendships marked by respect, understanding and affection.

Reverence for mystery

A sense of reverence for life and the mystery of God in the ordinary events of each day supported by an earthy spirituality that emerges from life and the events of the school as well as the local and world community. A sense of being called as young people and adults to make a difference through going the extra mile, through volunteering and gap years motivated by a sense of vocation.

Deeper faith expression

A greater awareness of the ways to access the mystery of God in prayer, reflection and liturgical celebration. An increased “spiritual literacy” based on an experience of sharing faith in non formal settings. An increased involvement in using symbols and re-presenting the tradition of the catholic church for a new generation of young adults.

Greater generosity

Generosity in both giving and forgiving- reconciling and believing in each others’ goodness and ability to change. Generosity in giving time to projects, in developing one another’s gifts through praise and honest feed-back.

Process

• Team work

• Respectful listening

• Generous practical response

• Using small groups to model the values of the Gospel

• Inviting regular honest feedback, evaluation and celebrations

Resources

Visit salesians.org.uk for chaplaincy resources

Visit negombolton.co.uk for news on the Negombo project

Visit davidomalley.org.uk for news and links on youth spirituality

Visit tommyswindow.com for downlaodable PowerPoints

Visit salesianyouthministry.com Visit for news of Salesian youth work uk

Visit cafod.org.uk for great prayer and curriculum resources on justice and environment issues

Visit boltonfairtrade.org.uk for updates on local fair trade