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Lourdes

Volunteering with the Dublin Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes was an amazing and unforgettable experience. As students we decide to put our self’s forward for this experience with a sense of curiosity and a feeling of wanting to help our community however what we left with was so much more than we could have ever excepted. We left with a full heart and an understanding of the importance of faith in our lives and unforgettable memories.

One of the stand out experiences during our time was the lighting of the candles in the Basilica of our lady of the rosary. This mass was a deeply symbolic time during our time in Lourdes as every flame represented something close to our hearts- our family, our friends and the people that are struggling during this time. This experience showed us the power of faith as we all gathered to pray for the things that mean the most to us. This was another unforgettable and moving memory.

One of the most moving moments of our time in Lourdes was visiting the Grotto of Massabielle where our lady appeared to Saint Bernadette, the atmosphere around the grotto is truly magical and breathtaking, the sound of the nearby river and the breathtaking view of the statue of our lady is an experience like no other. Whilst in the grotto we felt a sense of connection, and belonging. not just to the sacredness of the grotto but to the intentions and prayers of all those who asked us to carry their hopes with us on our pilgrimage. We brought these intentions to the grotto and gently placed them before the statue of our lady. We spent time in quiet prayer together whilst also reflecting on this wonderful feeling of connection we had whilst being in the beautiful grotto of massabielle and it was truly life changing.

Each night the Torchlight Marian Procession was held. Witnessing the procession with our own eyes was truly incredible. A sea of yellow candle carried by thousands of pilgrims processing towards the basilica was indescribable . We could feel the beautiful hyms being sang .
We were lucky enough to participate in the procession at the end of the week. Being in the procession along with all our fellow blue and white shirts was a phenomenal experience, praying the rosary and carrying our own candles , being able to be part of something so big together as a community brought together by faith.

Overall the Dublin diocese trip to Lourdes was far more than just a pilgrimage. We experienced a journey of growth and connection. For us, the trip was our chance to bond with not only each other, but with the other volunteers and most importantly the sick and the elderly. We were brought to Lourdes to help and assist the pilgrims and that was truly such an experience. By the end of the trip, it was clear that Lourdes wasn’t just about the journey we made but about the people we met, the lives we touched and the ways we grew together through serving others. This pilgrimage had made a lasting impact, not just on our faith but on our lives.

First Years Harvesting Salad From Polytunnel

Some of our 1st year students out harvesting salad from the polytunnel to take home.

Leinster Rugby Development Officer Coaches Pupils

Our Active School Flag team lined out a visit from Leinster Rugby last Friday. Rob made our 1st, 2nd and 3rd years enjoy themselves and try hard!

Photos of the TY trip to Milan, Lake Garda, Venice and Verona.

Active School Flag Showcase Video

Khylie from TY created this excellent video to showcase all the excellent work our Active School Flag team completed during the year.

TY Visit to the Criminal Courts of Justice

4th year Law module class of 2025

Zoe’s Account of our Visit to the Criminal Courts of Justice, Parkgate Street, Dublin

Today the 9th of April 2025 our class visited the Criminal Courts of Justice (CCJ) on Parkgate Street, Dublin. As a student interested in law and the justice system, this visit was both eye-opening and informative. It gave me a real-world insight into how Ireland’s legal system operates beyond the pages of a textbook.

We arrived at the impressive building just after 9:30 a.m. The architecture of the CCJ is modern and imposing, designed to reflect transparency and justice. After passing through security, we were greeted by a past student of Mary field, Asma Saleh who is a practicing Barrister who explained the layout of the building and the types of cases heard there — from minor offences to serious criminal trials in the Central Criminal Court.

Our group were brought to one of the public galleries to observe a trial in progress. The atmosphere inside the courtroom was serious and respectful. The judge, dressed in traditional robes, presided over the proceedings with calm authority. We listened as the defence and prosecution barristers questioned a witness in a case involving alleged assault. Watching the barristers’ cross-examinations and the judge’s interventions gave me a much clearer understanding of courtroom procedures and the role of each participant.

Later, we listened to a short talk with by Asma who answered our questions about how cases are prepared, the role of solicitors and barristers, and the types of evidence that can be used. I was particularly interested in how long cases can take to come to trial, and how victims and accused persons are supported during the legal process.

The most striking part of the visit was seeing justice in action. It reminded me that behind every case are real people whose lives are deeply affected by the outcome. It also showed me the importance of fairness, evidence, and clear communication in legal proceedings.

Overall, the visit to the Criminal Courts of Justice was a valuable experience. It deepened my interest in pursuing a career in law and helped me appreciate the complexities of the criminal justice system in Ireland. I would highly recommend such a visit to any student studying law, CSPE, or social studies.

Thanks to our class teacher Ms Coleman and Ms Bob who accompanied us

Zoe Lenehan. fourth year student

TY Visit to the Criminal Courts of Justice

Teachers Beat 6th Years In Annual Rounders Match Yet Again!

Unbelievable scenes in Maryfield today! The teachers took on the 6th years in the annual rounders match and once again put manners on them! 7-2 was the final score.

Sports Day 2025 Photos

Second Year Pilgrimage to Glendalough

Students experienced a time of peace, prayer and reflection while walking in St. Kevin’s footsteps. They learned about Monastic Life and appreciated the beauty of the tranquil surroundings.