Cardinal Vincent Nichols, and the Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, Robert Voss CBE CStJ was hosted by St Elizabeth's on Wednesday 17th September, for a day of celebration, thanksgiving, and reflection on the legacy of the Daughters of the Cross.
The occasion was marked by a Celebration Mass, presided over by the Cardinal, which recognised the extraordinary contribution of the Daughters of the Cross to St Elizabeth’s. The Mass also acknowledged the conclusion of the Sisters’ term of service as Trustees of the charity, following eight years of dedicated stewardship. Friends, families, staff and local dignitaries joined the congregation for this moving celebration, which was followed by a lunch reception on site.
Among those stepping down from trusteeship were Sister Veronica Hagen, Sister Patricia Ainsworth and Sister Annette Clemence, who have recently relocated from St Elizabeth’s to communities in Cheam and Haslemere. Their longstanding service, dedication, and spiritual leadership have played a vital role in shaping the ethos and future of the charity.
Reflecting on the event, Jill Rankin, Chief Executive of St Elizabeth’s, said:
'The Cardinal and his team at Westminster have been a constant source of support and reassurance to the Charity and we were delighted he could join us for this moment of celebration. The focus of the Mass was to thank the Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross and to mark their achievements and support of St Elizabeth’s since it was established in 1903. Their wisdom and kindness have not only been an inspiration to us, but also a guiding light to ensure that the people we serve continue to be at the heart of every decision we make.'
As part of the day’s visit, both the Cardinal and the Lord Lieutenant were given private tours of several recently completed facilities at St Elizabeth’s, including two newly refurbished classrooms in the school, the brand-new Sixth Form building and two learning bases in the college.
In addition, the Lord Lieutenant was introduced to St Elizabeth’s therapy facilities, where he met staff and learned more about the wide range of specialist therapies and support provided to children and young people.
The event was both a tribute to the Daughters of the Cross, whose vision and values remain at the heart of St Elizabeth’s, and a moment to look forward with hope and confidence as the charity continues to develop its educational and therapeutic provision for the future.
To find out more about St Elizabeth’s, visit www.stelizabeths.org.uk
