By James Johnson

Last updated at 15:45, Friday, 09 November 2012

A headteacher says that he is “very proud” that a bishop took Mass at his secondary school.

From left, Brittanny Southall-Mills, Laura May Wilkinson and Michael Irving

Michael Campbell, the Bishop of Lancaster, took a tour of Carlisle’s Newman Roman Catholic School and met staff, pupils and governors during his visit.

Pupils read prayers and played music as the bishop took Mass.

Headteacher John McAuley said: “It was very exciting for the children and they were well prepared for the visit.

“It was a really pleasant way to return to school after half-term.

“We are very proud of our place in local education.”

At the end of the Mass, Bishop Campbell formally commissioned Father John Millar as the school’s chaplain.

Although not the first visit of a bishop to the school, it was the first in a number of years and Mr McAuley says that any further visits would be welcomed.

He added: “He has a very busy schedule but we would like to have him back in the future.

“It was a fantastic morning and a great occasion.”

Bishop Campbell, who has strong connections with another Carlisle school, Austin Friars, also serves on the Department of Christian Life and Worship of the Catholic Bishop’s Conference of England and Wales.

First published at 15:43, Friday, 09 November 2012
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk