Pilgrims of Hope: A Journey of Faith, Service and Celebration During Mission Week
Mission Week 2025 at Maricourt Catholic High School was a powerful celebration of faith, learning, and service, uniting our school community under the Jubilee Year theme: “Pilgrims of Hope.” With each lesson rooted in Catholic Social Teaching, students reflected deeply on their identity as young people of faith in today’s world.
Throughout the week, a rich and varied programme of trips, guest speakers, prayer, and hands-on learning nurtured the Gospel values of dignity, solidarity, environmental care, peace, the option for the poor, and the common good.
Faith in Action: Pilgrimage, Prayer, and Witness
A key highlight of the week was the powerful testimony of John Pridmore, a former gangster whose life was dramatically transformed by an encounter with God. His story of redemption and grace captured the hearts of students and staff alike and reminded us all of the hope we carry as people of faith.
Year 9 students embraced the spirit of pilgrimage, walking through the Holy Door at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral—a symbolic and prayerful experience that deepened their connection to the Jubilee Year of Hope. They also engaged in interfaith encounters at local synagogues, learning more about Judaism and the importance of religious understanding and dialogue.
At school, Year 9 welcomed a visit from Mary’s Meals, who spoke about the global fight against hunger and the transformative impact of education and nutrition. The visit inspired students to think globally and commit to supporting the charity through future efforts.
Living Laudato Si’: Caring for Creation
Year 8 students visited Chester Zoo, exploring the beauty and diversity of God’s creation and learning how climate change is affecting habitats and species. The experience brought to life Pope Francis’ call in Laudato Si’ to be stewards of our common home, linking science and faith in action.
Exploring Our Heritage and Aspirations
Year 7 students explored both their roots and their future aspirations during a combined visit to the Liverpool Museum and the Tate Liverpool art gallery. These visits allowed them to engage with the city’s cultural, artistic, and historical heritage, while also reflecting on the role of creativity and expression in shaping identity and purpose.
In addition, students visited Edge Hill University, where they took part in activities that opened up conversations around ambition, direction, and lifelong learning. Together, these experiences helped students consider both where they come from and where they might go next as pilgrims of hope.
Welcoming the Next Generation of Pilgrims
As part of our commitment to journeying together in faith, we were proud to welcome our Catholic feeder primary schools—St Gregory’s, St John Bosco, St George’s, and Holy Rosary—to experience a taste of life at Maricourt.
Pupils took part in a variety of taster sessions across multiple subjects, giving them the opportunity to explore our learning environment, meet our staff, and begin their Maricourt journey even before Year 7. The atmosphere was full of excitement, confidence, and curiosity—laying strong foundations for the future.
Learning Through Service
Year 10 and Year 12 students took their learning out into the world through impactful work experience and volunteering placements. By giving back to their local community and learning in real-world settings, they lived out the Gospel values of service, responsibility, and compassion.
Spiritual Growth and Staff Reflection
In a quiet moment amid the busy week, Maricourt staff gathered in the chapel for a time of prayer and reflection. Together, they considered their calling from God to shape young lives, to love one another as Jesus taught, and to continue being faithful witnesses of hope and love in the school and wider community.
Celebration and Community Spirit
Mission Week wasn’t just about reflection—it was also a time for celebration, togetherness, and fun. The whole school came together for an energetic Sports Day, where students showed amazing team spirit and support for one another. Laughter echoed across the field as everyone, including teachers, took part in races—with the staff race drawing especially big cheers!
The week ended in a beautiful Whole School Mass, bringing students and staff together in thanksgiving and commissioning as pilgrims of hope. Afterwards, everyone enjoyed a well-earned ice cream treat, symbolising both joy and shared achievement.
That same evening, the Year 13 Leavers’ Party at The Bentley in Liverpool marked a poignant and unforgettable farewell. With breathtaking views of the Liverpool skyline, the Liver Building, and the Three Graces, students and staff ate, laughed, sang, and danced together. It was a moment of deep gratitude and joy—celebrating years of learning, friendship, and faith.
Walking Forward in Hope
As the sun set on Mission Week 2025, one message remained clear:
Maricourt is more than a school—it is a family united in love, faith, and purpose.
Students and staff alike now carry the challenge and joy of being Pilgrims of Hope beyond the classroom. In the words shared at the close of the week:
“We are called to be pilgrims of hope, bringing light into the world through our actions, our prayers, and our love for others.”
Maricourt will stay in everyone’s heart, as they go on to be the change they wish to see in the world.
Danielle Lawler
Deputy Headteacher
