Scottish Catholic Observer

The school community held their Feast Day Mass in honour of St John Ogilvie on Friday March 9, ahead of the Catholic martyr’s feast day on Saturday, where they were led in the celebration of Mass by Bishop Joseph Toal of Motherwell Diocese.

The bishop addressed those present in the ‘street area’ of the school, where he spoke of St John Ogilvie’s life and the circumstances that led to his martyrdom at Glasgow Cross on March 10, 1615.

Concelebrating with Bishop Toal were other members of diocesan clergy, including school chaplain Fr John Paul McShane, Canon Willie Donnachie, former St John Ogilvie High pupil Fr Kenny Campbell, Fr Brian Lamb, and Deacon Joe Dowds of St Joseph’s Church in Blantyre.

Also present was Sr Stacey Cameron, another St John Ogilvie High School alumni.

The pupils took an active role in the Mass, with Sixth Year Caritas pupils present, who were pictured alongside headteacher Eddie Morrison and Bishop Toal after the Mass (right). The pupils also presented a ‘very powerful celebration video’ they had made to mark 100 years of Catholic state education.

“It told of the history of Catholic education in general and of the school in particular, and featured witness statements from staff past and present and current students, who described what their Faith meant to them and how that was reflected in the ethos of their school,” Mr Morrison said.

The headteacher also stressed the ‘importance of service to others as they key purpose of Christian commitment,’ while former headteacher Anne Marie Fagan placed an emphasis on the formation of the whole child.

The celebration of Mass was enhanced by the music department and senior vocal ensemble, who provided a beautiful musical liturgy.

Following the Mass, guests gathered together for lunch and to reflect on the special day for the school, sharing memories of their experience at St John Ogilvie’s.