On a bright and breezy Friday morning (6 September), the pupils, staff and governors of St Mary’s Catholic Academy, Leek, joined Fr Martin, Parish Priest, and a number of parishioners in the beautiful nineteenth century gothic revival church for Mass to mark the beginning of the new school year. 

In the north Staffordshire parish there is a strong working relationship between the parish and school and the families of children. This working relationship, which has been strengthened since the Covid pandemic, is demonstrated in a number of ways including today’s Mass in church, Sacramental Preparation of the children and the monthly Family Mass celebrated on Saturday evenings.  

At today’s Mass, Fr Martin, as always, encouraged the children and staff at the school to make Holy Moments. A Holy Moment is when one is open to God and is the best version of themself.  

During the uplifting Mass, full of Holy Moments, the children and staff from the school took roles including reading, writing and leading bidding prayers, altar serving and offertory procession.  

There is a  team of dedicated parishioners who assist Fr Martin every day and at Whole School Masses by opening the church, preparing the vessels for Mass, arranging the music and singing (and clapping).

At St Mary’s, everyone shares the responsibility of the life and mission of the parish.

There is a committed Local Governing Board for St Mary’s School made up of members from the local parish who support the school in a number of practical ways.  

St Mary's Catholic Church

St Mary's Catholic Academy