Schools from across the region have once again gathered for our annual Good Shepherd Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral in Newcastle.
The Mass, which was celebrated by Bishop Séamus Cunningham and Fr Shaun Purdy, marks the culmination of our Good Shepherd Appeal – and weeks of inventive fundraising events by the schools, in support of St Cuthbert’s Care.
A choir was provided by St Mary’s Primary School, Sunderland and pupils from some of the other schools attending led bidding prayers and readings.
During the Mass pupils presented their donations to Bishop Cunningham and handed over posters, photographs and banners depicting their fundraising efforts, all of which will be displayed at St Cuthbert’s Care’s head office.
Bishop Cunningham happily chatted to pupils as he accepted their schools’ donations on behalf of our charity and explained the importance of their support for our work.
An enjoyable occasion was rounded off by what is fast becoming quite a tradition, with Bishop Cunningham selecting volunteers to join him at the altar steps to pose for photographs wearing his mitre and cap and holding his crozier.
St Cuthbert’s Care’s Relationship Manager, Nicola Manager, who organises both the appeal and the annual Mass, said, “I would like to thank Bishop Cunningham and Fr Purdy for celebrating our Good Shepherd Mass and pass on our appreciation to everyone who worked so hard in support of our charity again this year. Each person has made a significant contribution to our work for those in need.”