The Anglican Board of Education in its appraising the distinctive character of an Anglican School, speaks of THE SIGNS AND SYMBOLS

“In the school there will be signs and symbols of the Christian faith which remind the community of their faith heritage and challenge them to continue to live by faith. An obvious example is a chapel which is used for worship or a simple cross on the wall of every teaching venue would be another. Appropriate posters pointing to our common faith and how to live can also be helpful. There are many ways to show the school’s commitment to the faith, one needs to be creative and intentional” (ABESA).

One of the living signs of God’s presence in our school is the ringing of the Angelus bell. The Angelus bell is rung daily (Monday to Friday) at 12h25.

“A time the bell” is rung makes this “a living sign”. The traditional times for the ringing of the Angelus bell are 06h00, 12h00 and 18h00. At St Mary’s, we have found a way to integrate the Angelus into the rhythm of our school day. The ringing of the Angelus bell is an invitation to observe a moment of silence, prayer and reflection.

The Angelus takes its name from the words the angel Gabriel spoke to Mary in Luke’s Gospel (1:26-38): Angelus Domini nuntiavit Maria (“the Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary”).

REVD RAKGADI KHOBO
CHAPLAIN