WelCom August 2024
Palmerston North Catholic Diocese’s Bishop John Adams led a special midweek Mass on 26 June at Holy Family Church in Whanganui, with the children and staff of St Marcellin School.
At the beginning of Mass, Bishop John had a special message to share with the parishioners and the school community. He announced he had been meeting with the school board and the principal, Belinda Backwell, to discuss the investment the diocese would be making in the school property and grounds.
Bishop John said he was very impressed with the school, ‘the calibre of the students’ and ‘the wonderful work being undertaken by the principal and staff’. He confirmed the diocese would be starting phase 1 of the refurbishment project this year, providing improved classrooms and furnishings, with phases 2 and 3 to follow.
The principal and board said they are very excited about the investment the diocese is making in the school and that ‘they are looking forward to showcasing the new refurbished facilities in due course’.
Principal Belinda Backwell said the St Marcellin School students, Fr John Roberts and Bishop John conducted a beautiful service, ‘where the students were able to showcase their singing abilities, with heartfelt renditions of Mo Maria and Hosea’.
‘During his sermon Bishop John bestowed three key messages on the students,’ she said. ‘Firstly, the best reading they could ever undertake could be found in the Bible. Secondly, we must always ensure our words and actions align; and thirdly, Jesus is always there for us. No matter how challenging our lives may be, Jesus will never abandon us.’
After Mass, a special morning tea was held for the Bishop at the school. Bishop John spent some time with the students in the classrooms talking about aspects of his role as the newly appointed Bishop of the Palmerston North Diocese.
