On the Solemnity of All Saints Cardinal Griffin Catholic High School in Cannock, Staffordshire, celebrated its 50th anniversary with Mass in the school hall celebrated by Archbishop Bernard Longley of Birmingham, writes Józef Łopuszyński.
Among the many guests present was the late Cardinal Griffin’s niece, Sister Mary Bernard Potter, who donated a portrait of her uncle to the school.
Also present were former pupils of the school, including Fr Martin Pratt, and teachers who were at the school on the day it opened its doors.
Deputy headteacher Brian Leechmere said: “When we contacted Sister Mary Bernard Potter, niece of Cardinal Griffin, to invite her to come to our 50th anniversary Mass, she then replied with the kind offer of the portrait. We are delighted to give it a home.”
Janet Mellor, chairwoman of governors, said: “The evening was so full and joy and celebration for the whole community of
our school, both past and present.
“We were so honoured by the presence of our archbishop to preside at the Mass and of many priests, staff and pupils who are part of our family here at Cardinal Griffin Catholic High School spanning over 50 years.
“I was especially moved to be sitting between Cardinal Griffin’s niece, Sister Mary Bernard and a lady from Hednesford who was a pupil on the first day the school opened.”
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