All schools in diocese of Salford to be visited by holy anchor

Headteachers met at a hotel in Blackburn to attend their annual conference. This year’s event was unique, featuring a special initiative. Bishop John Arnold of Salford attended the meeting and introduced a Jubilee Year initiative, which Catholics celebrate every 25 years.

The Bishop blessed three large anchors that symbolize the Jubilee Year, with each Catholic Academy Trust receiving one. Pope Francis chose “Pilgrims of Hope” as the theme, expressing his desire for Catholics to be a light in dark times.

Bishop John addressed the challenges people face and emphasized the need to celebrate hope. He explained that hope helps us navigate tough times and reveals the existence of a resolution, even if the path to it is unclear.

The schools now possess the anchors; St Mary’s, Thorneyholme, and St Chad’s each received one. These schools will embark on a journey, with the anchors visiting every school in the diocese, spanning the Academy Trusts’ area.

Each headteacher received a smaller anchor, also blessed by Bishop John, serving as a reminder of hope. Bishop John discussed the Jubilee of Hope, noting that anchors symbolize being held firm, and he wants anchors shown around schools.

We should recognize our importance and how everyone can bring hope to the world. Several East Lancashire schools in towns like Accrington and Blackburn will receive the anchor. Schools in Burnley, Clitheroe, Colne, Darwen, Longridge, Nelson, Oswaldtwistle, Padiham, and Rossendale will also participate in receiving anchors.