At the top of the building, new oratory completes the project

At the top of the building, new oratory completes the project

8 February 2012 - by CIARA COLHOUN

THE Assumption Grammar School’s new oratory has been officially opened.

The school’s replacement oratory was opened and dedicated by Bishop John McAreavey with school chaplain Father Patrick Murray and Father John Byrne acting as masters of ceremonies.

Representatives of the trustees, board of governors, staff, pupils, parents, fundraisers, tradesmen and the past pupil committee attended the opening, which follows years of fundraising since the school’s previous oratory was knocked down to make way for the new school.

School principal Paul McBride said the journey to the dedication ceremony has been long but worthwhile considering the careful planning and high quality work which have gone into the project.

“We can now feel satisfied that once again, after eight long years, we have a magnificent place of worship, prayer, reflection and silence for our school community,” he said.

“It is no accident that our new oratory is positioned at the highest and most central part of the new school building. The school building now feels complete.”

Mr. McBride said that if all those who contributed to the oratory fund were present at the dedication ceremony a cathedral would have been needed to house them, and he said he therefore hoped a fuller appreciation could be given at the official school opening on May 4.

Mr. McBride also paid tribute to the Missionary Sisters of the Assumption.

“Central to this whole concept and reality are, of course, the Sisters who have not only contributed the beautiful tabernacle and the stained glass from the old chapel, but they have been at our side every step of the way, through the planning, and guiding us at all levels. We are so grateful to them,” he said.

He also paid tribute to the school community and local community who were involved in the design and work of the oratory, including craftsmen, joiners, electricians, plasterers, tilers and decorators.

The altar furniture was designed by the Head of Art, Peter McCann, with the religion department leading the development.

Mr. McBride said the oratory team was like an orchestra.

“The members of this team, and in particular, Sisters Ursula and Maureen, came to rehearse more frequently and intensely as we moved towards the final performance,” he said.

“Each member of the orchestra was able to offer his or her own interpretation of the piece, demonstrating true non patronising leadership, and coming up with an overall interpretation leading to a superb performance which is the oratory itself.”