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School Chaplains from across the diocese celebrated the life of the Rt Rev. Stephen Ortiger OSB (1940-2024) at a special Mass held at the start of the Chaplains’ Day gathering, held at Ladywell, The Franciscan Centre in Godalming last week. Fr Stephen was the diocesan Coordinator of School Chaplains for a number of years, meeting regularly with primary and secondary school chaplains to offer guidance, practical support and spiritual formation. Speaking during the homily, Bishop Richard said:

“Something often highlighted by Fr Stephen was a focus on being who we really are – this ‘being’ which by the grace of God draws people to Christ. We are not here to take people from the world but to let them know that the Lord has confidence in them to be His people, that God loves them. The wonderful call to accompany others is more about our being than our doing. We give thanks to God for Fr Stephen’s ministry, someone who taught by the example of his life and accompanied us, particularly chaplains.”

Julie Oldroyd, Director of Education said:

“We in the Education Service are delighted at the opportunity to continue the work of Fr Stephen and to move forward together, embedding Prayer, Formation and Mission at the heart of our schools. It is a timely transition given the publication of the Prayer and Liturgy Directory and the work that will be needed to embed this in our school communities.”

Chaplains have a very special place in the faith development and pastoral care of our school communities with students, staff and families benefitting greatly from their ministry. Bishop Richard has appointed Theresa McNamara, Chaplain at St Philip Howard Catholic School in Barnham to fulfil the role of diocesan Chaplaincy Coordinator, with Theresa seconded to the Diocesan Education Service one day a week.  During their day together, led by Theresa, Chaplains explored how they can offer a provision which is nourishing, collaborative, shared and sustainable.