Spreading Hope: Jubilee Candle visits St Simon Stock

On Thursday, 20 March, St Simon Stock Catholic School had the honour of hosting a Celebration of the Word Service with our Year 7 students. This special occasion was attended by Anne-Marie Whittle, CEO of the Kent Catholic Schools’ Partnership (KCSP), and Ms J Burford, KCSP Trust RE Lead.

A key highlight of the service was the presence of the KCSP Jubilee Candle, which is travelling to all KCSP schools during the Jubilee Year. Mrs Whittle and Mrs Burford brought the candle to St Simon Stock as part of this meaningful tradition. During the service, our own St Simon Stock Jubilee Candle was lit, symbolising the spreading of hope as we embrace our role as Pilgrims of Hope in this sacred Jubilee Year.

The service was conducted by Fr Liam and Deacon Ian and was led by our School Chaplain, Cole Gillespie. The theme focused on how we can embody the spirit of pilgrimage in our daily lives, bringing hope, love, and joy to others through simple acts of kindness.

This powerful and reflective service reinforced our school’s commitment to faith, hope, and community, reminding us all of the importance of being beacons of light for one another. As we continue through the Jubilee Year, we remain dedicated to living out our school motto, Labora cum Amore — Work with Love.