First Zambian Cardinal visit Hertfordshire school

Cardinal Mazombwe distributes Communion

St Michael’s Catholic High School in Garston, Hertfordshire, was blessed by a visit from Cardinal Mazombwe, the first cardinal of Zambia, on 1 April. He took time from his busy schedule while in the UK for a short visit to celebrate Mass for 1200 students, staff and governors. Afterwards he met students and went on a tour around the school to see how the school lives up to its promise, Bringing Christ to All and All to Christ.

Headteacher Edward Conway was born in Zambia and first met Cardinal Mazombwe when the cardinal visited his previous school in London. It was the connection made here that made this visit possible.

Father Uchenna, who has been the school chaplain for two years, said: “The opportunity to celebrate Mass with Cardinal Mazombwe gave students and staff the opportunity to experience the wider community of belonging to the Christian community in the Catholic Church. At this special time of Lent, we are already working with our brothers and sisters in Rwanda and fundraising to help them have better lives. Zambia becomes a third community for us. Cardinal Mazombwe found it amazing to see the students’ faith and the ethos of the school. Ultimately, special occasions like this help us realise we belong to something more.”