A special assembly was held last Wednesday 2 May, 2016 to welcome our new College Chaplain Rev Geordie Barham. A group of boys and staff under the leadership of Mr Chris Paton had been rehearsing an arrangement of Eric Clapton’s Holy Mother in preparation for Rev Barham’s commencement.

The song, Holy Mother was written by Clapton as a prayer when he was at a very low point in his life dealing with alcoholism. In the Catholic religion much attention is made to Mary the mother of Jesus, particularly through prayer. The Madonna is another term used. By contrast, Mary is not as prominently referred to or recognised in the Protestant churches. This song by Clapton is called ‘Holy Mother’ and its central theme is of prayer in times of need and can apply to any religion.

At Newington, we love how multi-faith we are as a community. Our acknowledgement of all religions and philosophers around the walls of our Chapel highlights our respect of all religions and the search for meaning and the truth regardless of the path that is taken.

The performance of this song is also a wonderful way of heralding a full music calendar this term. Rockfest, led by Mr Paton takes place on 18 June, 2016. It will be celebrating its 10th birthday this year.

The official commissioning for Rev Geordie Barham takes place tomorrow, Wednesday 10 May from 5:00 PM in the Chapel. All are welcome to attend.