Faith, Friendship and Service: A Special Feast Day Celebration at St Thomas More

In the month of October, the community around St Thomas More VC Academy in West Hull were blessed to come together to celebrate the feast day of Saint Carlo Acutis.

Father Xavier Santhiyagu led everyone in a beautiful and joy-filled Mass that reminded all of the power of faith, friendship, and service. Parishioners from Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Hessle and the West Hull parishes and Deacon Chris Larwood, were welcomed with delight and their presence made the celebration feel even more special and united were welcome with delight and whose presence made the celebration feel even more special and united.

During the Mass, Father Xavier spoke about the inspiring life of Saint Carlo Acutis — a young person who loved God deeply and used his gifts, especially his passion for technology, to share that love with others. His words encouraged everyone to see that holiness isn’t just for the saints of long ago, but something we can all strive for in our everyday lives, through kindness, gratitude, and faith.

The school choir sang beautifully, filling the chapel with joyful music that lifted everyone’s hearts. Many pupils took part in the readings and prayers, and staff were proud to see how confidently they led the worship. Together, they prayed in thanksgiving for Saint Carlo’s example and asked for his intercession to help us live with the same courage and devotion that he showed.

After Mass, smiles and conversations were shared with the visitors, grateful for the chance to come together as one community. The celebration reminded us that faith is something we live and share — not just on special days, but every day.

Inspired by Saint Carlo, everyone left the chapel with renewed joy, ready to use their own talents to bring light and hope to others.