Who is St Edmund?
St Edmund of Abingdon, also known as Edmund Rich, is the patron saint of our school and a profound inspiration for our values and mission. Born in Abingdon, near Oxford, in 1175, Edmund dedicated his life to education, faith, and the service of others. His journey of faith and learning serves as a guiding light for the St Edmund’s community.
A Life of Faith and Service
St Edmund was a brilliant scholar who studied at the University of Paris and became one of the first lecturers at the University of Oxford. Renowned for his teaching in theology and mathematics, he was known not only for his intellect but also for his deep compassion, humility, and commitment to living a life of service.
In 1233, Edmund was appointed Archbishop of Canterbury, where he championed peace, justice, and the rights of the Church during a time of political and social unrest. His dedication to fostering reconciliation and unity earned him the title of "Peacemaker". Edmund’s humility, strength, and unwavering faith inspired all who knew him.
His Legacy
St Edmund passed away in 1240 and was canonised as a saint in 1246, just six years after his death. His Feast Day is celebrated on 16th November, a day of reflection and celebration for his courage, sacrifice, and dedication to justice.
How St Edmund Inspires Us Today
At St Edmund’s Catholic Primary School, his values are embedded in everything we do:
- We follow his example of service, putting others before ourselves.
- We live with perseverance and integrity, upholding truth and faith.
- We strive for respect, inclusivity, and trust, reflecting St Edmund’s commitment to unity and kindness.
Through our SPIRIT Values, daily prayers, assemblies, and charitable initiatives, we bring St Edmund’s vision to life. His story reminds us to embrace learning, live with faith, and serve with humility.
Celebrating St Edmund at Our School
Every year, we honour St Edmund on his Feast Day with a special Mass at our Parish Church, bringing together children, staff, and parishioners in a celebration of his life and legacy. Our pupils also reflect on his teachings through faith-based projects and acts of service, such as:
- Charity initiatives, like food bank collections and fundraising events.
- Liturgical assemblies, which explore his values and Catholic Social Teaching.
- Daily prayers, where we ask for his intercession with "St Edmund, pray for us."
St Edmund’s life continues to inspire our community to live with courage, faith, and love. His legacy reminds us that, through Christ, we can learn, grow, and make a positive difference in the world.
“St Edmund, guide us in faith and service.”