Chaplains Message

The Chaplaincy Team at Castleknock Community College.

In a school community, which embraces a holistic vision of education, chaplaincy plays a pivotal role. The Education Act 1998 Section 9(d) notes the obligation placed on schools to "promote the moral, spiritual and personal development of students in consultation with parents having regard to the charismatic spirit of the school". While the chaplaincy is primarily concerned with moral and spiritual development of students it also plays an important role in integrating these with other dimensions of education, social, personal, academic and physical.

The Chaplaincy Team:
The Chaplaincy team is intimately involved in the life of the Castleknock Community College. It is totally committed to supporting the ethos of the college through working together as a team.
The Chaplaincy team operates on an interdenominational basis, and enjoys the services of a full-time Catholic chaplain, part-time Church of Ireland chaplain, the Religious Studies Department, and bereavement volunteers from the parents. Staff are also an indispensable part of the chaplaincy team.

Open Door:
No matter what stage in life we are at; all of us need some kind of support. The Chaplaincy team at Castleknock Community College provides an open door where students can come and receive support in a confidential, supportive and safe way.
Many students have used this open door system as their first steps to dealing with a problem or seeking help. The Chaplain may refer a student to another member of staff, another support person or a counsellor with the permission of the student. The school Chaplain works closely with the Principal, Deputy Principals, VEC Educational Psychologists, local health professionals and the Guidance Teachers, as well as the class tutor and Year Heads.

Bereavement Support:
The loss of someone close through death or separation is one of the most traumatic events in a person's life. When the loss occurs during teenage years, the effects can be even greater. The Chaplaincy team at Castleknock Community College provides bereavement support through "The Rainbows Programme". Rainbows is a support group for young people dealing with loss or trauma. A Rainbows site has been set up in the college and is co-ordinated by the Chaplain. Several teachers and parents have now completed training to take this programme.

Prayer & Church:
The Chaplain's Meditation Room and office provide a haven of peace for a chat, for prayer, reflection, or simply a pause during a busy school day. Prayer and Thanksgiving are an important part of a person's life. The Chaplaincy team provide each student with opportunities to nourish their spirit and get in touch with their inner self. Class groups are offered prayer experiences, which help to develop their relationship with God. Classes take part in Eucharistic Celebrations, Prayer Services, and Meditation thus making prayer a part of the ordinary life of the school

Retreats:
The Chaplaincy team at Castleknock Community College provide a full retreat programme for the students in the College. The retreats provide the students with an opportunity to examine their lives in relation to the issues they face each day and where God fits into their daily lives. Senior retreats are conducted away from the school and are tailored to the needs of the students.

Ecumenism:
Since Castleknock Community College is an interdenominational College it is our policy to honour and support all faiths. The First Year multi-faith celebration is the spiritual highlight of the first term and this is always a very joyful, collaborative and unifying event. Other ecumenical occasions are the Christmas Carol Service and Prize Giving.

Parents:
The Chaplain is always available to meet with parents and to listen to their concerns. The involvement of parents is also welcomed in the Chaplaincy team