My name is Olivia Giltenane and I am the new school Chaplain for Colaiste Na Trocaire. I would like to welcome both staff and students back to the new school year of 2014-2015. I would also like to welcome all the first year students to Colaiste na Trocaire. I hope you all have a pleasant experience settling into secondary school.
As School Chaplain I am available to help with faith formation, school liturgical events and to provide support for students and for the spiritual wellbeing of the school community.
Students can drop into the Chaplaincy office for a variety of reasons. Sometimes just to say ‘Hello’ which is always a nice.
Lots of things can interrupt a student’s ability to concentrate on their studies. Sometimes all that is required to get back on track is a space where they can address an issue of concern.
In the past students have dropped into the Chaplaincy to talk about issues relating to:
• personal life
• faith/spirituality
• relationships
• academic life/adjusting
• bereavement
• receiving bad news
• personal or family illness
• social media bullying
• home sickness
• support in making a decision
• and many other reasons.
I operate an open door policy; there is no need to make an appointment. However I am not in my office/classroom I can be found wandering the corridors.
I hope to provide a service that aims to support and encourage you through any issues you might be facing. At the heart of Chaplaincy is availability and the willingness to listen, support, affirm and where necessary to challenge you.
If I do not have the capacity to deal with a particular issue, I will assist in finding a service that is best resourced to respond to your need.
Faith and Spiritual Life:
The Chaplaincy is of course responsible for supporting the Christian Faith community within the College. Throughout the year I will organise services relevant to the various seasons and events within the Church calendar. Retreats are always a popular means of actively engaging with one’s faith. This year I will organise retreats for all years.
I encourage and welcome the participation and involvement of students & staff in any of the activities or services that will take place throughout the year.
Building Community:
As a school we actively work to support and build the ‘Community’ atmosphere. We appreciate that there is a diversity of beliefs and opinions within the school Community and we are committed to engaging and co-operating with everyone involved. We are open to students, of all faiths and none.
So please feel free to drop in and say hello,
Ms. Giltenane
