Teachers received into the Catholic Church
Eight teachers from schools within the Kent Catholic Schools’ Partnership formally welcomed into the Church
On Saturday, 3rd May, Aylesford Priory was the setting for a significant and heartwarming event. Eight dedicated teachers from various schools within the Kent Catholic Schools’ Partnership were formally welcomed into the Church by Canon Victor Darlington, Episcopal Vicar for the South East Area of the Archdiocese of Southwark and for Education. These individuals had responded to the invitation to participate in the Trust-wide RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) programme, "Come and See."
The RCIA programme, which spanned from September 2024 to April 2025, was thoughtfully designed to accommodate the busy schedules of educators. It featured a combination of face-to-face and online sessions, all conducted during the school day. This hybrid approach ensured that participants could engage deeply with the material, while balancing their professional responsibilities. The sessions were led by the Trust’s Catholic Life and Religious Education lead, one of the Trust’s school Chaplains, and were supported by Fr. John Howard.
Throughout the programme, candidates and catechumens were encouraged to immerse themselves in their local parish communities. They attended weekly weekend Masses, which provided them with regular opportunities for worship and reflection.
The support from their parishes offered essential guidance and encouragement. This communal backing was instrumental in fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual growth among the participants.
This initiative underscores the Kent Catholic Schools’ Partnership's commitment to nurturing faith and providing comprehensive formation for all. It is a testament to the power of Catholic schools, the community they provide and the profound impact of shared spiritual experiences.
The Trust looks forward to offering the RCIA programme in collaboration with parishes once again to all of its employees during 2025/26.
Emily, a teacher received into the Church said:
As someone who has always hoped to formally enter into a faith but had never quite found the right moment, the opportunity to do so while working within a Catholic school felt providential. A calling I could not ignore. It was deeply moving and affirming that I am part of a Trust and a school community that recognises and supports the personal faith journeys of its staff. Working in Catholic education over the past five years has shown me just how profoundly different and special it is. The RCIA has deepened that understanding, revealing ever more clearly that at the heart of all we do is Christ’s love. A love not only taught but lived and witnessed daily in our schools.
Bianca, another teacher received into the Church, said:
I have found the RCIA course extremely enlightening, my knowledge of my faith is very much deeper with a greater understanding of the Catholic Faith. I have not found it too demanding in terms of my school commitments and am so very grateful that this path was available to me so that I could continue my spiritual journey.
Story and image provided by the Kent Catholic Schools Partnership
