The Chronicle, Spring 2019

31 ST EDWARD’S CHRONICLE

The Chapel Bells Chris Nathan OSE, School Archivist, writes: The ringing of the Chapel bells resonates (literally) with every OSE, young and old, and is probably the one memory that lingers on even long after leaving the School. DE-DANG-DONG remains part of the eternal memory. In the past, these peals usually informed all and sundry how long there remained before services began and could engender mild panic, especially if one was on the wrong side of Port Meadow in muddy sports gear! The three bells were hung in February 1879, cast by Messrs Taylor & Son of Loughborough, and were first rung on 1st March 1879 for Evensong; their tone was pronounced ‘satisfactory’ in the Chronicle .

The completed Chapel in 1877 with South Parade in the background to the right

Chapel Today By Fifth Former Gini Hope 145 years on and the role of Chapel at the heart of our community seems to grow stronger and stronger. The fulfilling services, choral singing and inspiring discussions given by an array of individuals mean that Chapel is a hugely positive feature in our lives. Chapel is naturally a place of prayer and worship, but it has also developed into a place which brings people together for invaluable periods of quiet and reflection as we navigate the eventful lives we lead as Teddies pupils and staff. There can be a misconception that Chapel is a place for the religious and no one else. However, I believe that our Chapel is exceptionally welcoming to the whole community, whether you want to

pray, enjoy a period of silence or need to de-stress. The deep-rooted, familiar rhythm of Chapel life brings people together at least twice a week, strengthening our understanding of each other. There are many ways in which you can become involved in Chapel life: you can become a Sacristan, sing in the Chapel Choir, be confirmed or even read and help with services. Along with many of my friends, I took the opportunity to be confirmed in my Shell year. To prepare, I attended regular classes to find out more about God and Christianity. As part of our preparation, we went on an afternoon retreat which was peaceful and really helpful. At the end of this experience, all my family came to a lovely service to watch me take this step into Christianity. Without doubt, this important building constructed 145 years ago has had, and

continues to have, many positive effects on people throughout the School, whether it is from the services, the thoughtful reflection, the uplifting opportunity to sing, the instructive sermons or the constant reminder that we are one community. The Chapel is always open to all.

Gini Hope