chapel memories through the years
CHAPEL MEMORIES The St Catherine’s Chapel is at the very heart and soul of our School. Since the service of dedication in 1894 by the Archbishop of Canterbury it has changed very little and it continues to offer a place of calm, reflection and peace to the whole school community including pupils, staff, parents and alumnae. We are incredibly lucky to have such a fine historic building with beautiful Kempe stained glass windows, a carved oak reredos and a wonderful Father Willis & Sons organ, within the main buildings of our School. When the Chapel was built, the School had only 85 pupils who attended Chapel twice a day. Although it can no longer accommodate the whole School at one time, it remains the spiritual centre and is still in daily use. We have been overwhelmed by the Memories of Chapel we have received from alumnae from the 1940s to current pupils, thank you. The emotional and spiritual connection is so evident in these stories and the sense of ‘moral compass’ that many of you say originated with your experience of St Catherine’s Chapel. This demonstrates its critical importance to the School community, past, present and future.
The Reverend Dr. Benjamin McNair Scott St Catherine’s School Chaplain
We invite you to be part of our Chapel’s history, protecting it for generations to come, by sponsoring an organ stop or a wheel-window in our Chapel Campaign. Please contact Pippa Carte - Development Director pippa.carte@stcatherines.info or 01483 899754
1900 - 1930
Taken from ‘Memories of Schooldays 1903-1948’ by Elisabeth Reed
Rhoda’s ha bitual seat in the Chapel was opposite the orga n, which in those days was played by a me mber of the Music Staff. It was during Rhoda’s first year that the Reredos was given by Ca non Musgrave. The Narthex accommodated in Rhoda’s words ‘the school serva nts, wearing aprons’ a nd in the evening the Chapel was lit by gas. Easter was spent at school a nd Rhoda re me mbers most vividly the thrill of Chapel services a nd in particular the scent of flowers at the Chapel entry. It was as she puts it, ‘a lovely experience’. In the last few months of her life, Rhoda often referred to her school days a nd especially her me mory of the Chapel, the peace it brought to her, the glorious Easter flowers a nd a bove all the strong belief in Christia n values assimilated within its wall. Rhoda Higlett, 1910
Taken from ‘Memories of Schooldays 1903-1948’ by Elisabeth Reed
I wonder if you have had to enlarge the chapel? I expect you have more pupils now. The Rev. Etty was our chaplain; he was just as unapproachable as Mrs Baker. Phyllis Gardner, 1918
Taken from ‘Memories of Schooldays 1903-1948’ by Elisabeth Reed
We reckoned, even for a church school, that we had too many services. Chapel every evening, Communion at 8am on Wednesday for those conf irmed, and compulsory Sung Eucharist at 8am on Sundays, 11am Mattins in Bramley Church and Evensong that evening. Still, we did have a whole holiday on Ascension Day. Felt hats in winter term with navy hatbands with a gold Catherine wheel; in summer panama hats with red hatbands. These hats had to be worn whenever outside the school grounds, also for chapel. Lindsay Lewison, (née Rothwell) 1929
1940s
I was confirmed in 1943. Clothes were rationed but, by tradition, we should wear white! It was fun trying on white dresses bought out each year. I won’t say who did this but on our last night someone extinguished the everlasting light! I really enjoyed the choir and the peaceful feeling in the chapel and have many special feelings for it. Lady Marion Morris (nÊe Sinclair), 1948
Chapel in my day meant a great deal each day and twice on Sundays. my confirmation by the Bishop of Guildford was totally inspirational. Miss Symes stood at the chapel entrance to answer any questions we had. I asked her what "fornication" meant in the Litany - I knew the answer of course, she replied with "it’s a sin to do with marriage. You'll learn when you are older.” Jane Shenfield (née Goodman), 1947
The whole school could all worship together then. A Miss Plint oversaw all work in the chapel (besides teaching Geography). I played the organ and rose to the dizzy heights of playing for school chapel. I remember the first hymn I played was "Immortal, Invisible, God only wise." I was confirmed in the school chapel on 16 November 1946. Stella Chadwick (nĂŠe Cross), 1948
It was quite bleak - the dormitories very large, and the air-raid shelter was built near the playing field! There was a raid, one day after school, and a German plane sprayed Bramley station with bullets, and two senior pupils were killed. There was a service in the lovely chapel. I remember how shocked we all were. Dorothy Tutin, 1946
Miss Symes had a very firm Christian faith and set us a strong example of service to others. She led our Chapel evensong on the vicar’s day off. (We wore black velour hats in the winter, and panamas in the summer, for Chapel). She always read from Ephesians, Chapter 6 - ‘Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord’. We did so much lovely choral work and it was a privilege to stand each evening in the Chapel and sing in the choir. There was an advantage to this as the choir filed out first and so we were first at the supper table. Jean Haywood (née Malim), 1948
I was at St Catherine’s a long time ago - in fact it is 70 years since I left. I have many memories of Chapel, which has shaped my life in that I have remained a church goer ever since that time. I remember feeling deeply religious at the time and many times visiting the Chapel on my own in the evening - it had a wonderful atmosphere. I particularly remember the then Headmistress, Miss Symes, taking Evensong and including one of my favourite prayers, which include the words “When the busy world is hushed, the fever of life over and my work is done”. I’ve even asked for this to be included at my funeral! Wendy Bourne, 1944
1950s
Over 60 years have elapsed, but on a recent visit the Chapel felt much the same as it did then., with the smell of polish apparent as soon as you entered the vestibule. Gazing at the stained glass panels while trying to keep a straight back during prayers is one of my many memories. There were no women chaplains then (or now?) but Miss Ponting kept us in good order. Fay Marshall (nĂŠe Chivers), 1950
It was a very special place in my school days and the memories have stayed with me throughout my life. To walk down the little cloistered passage and turn into the Chapel and look up at the beautiful altar, reredos and window was always a very special moment of wonder and peace. Miss Stoner kindly invited me to board overnight on my last day at school at the end of the Su mmer term 1952 and to choose my Leaving Hymn for that evening chapel. My choice was “Dear Lord and Father of Mankind” and it has remained my favourite hymn. Other special memories are of ringing the Chapel bell before a Service; my Confirmation in Chapel on 19 November 1948 and in 1952 the cancellation of lessons and all of us gathering in Chapel having just heard the sad news that King George VI had died. Elizabeth Green (née Horsman), 1952
I w as at St Catherine’s from 1948 to 1958 and a memory of the Chapel in my senior school years - though possibly not quite like the uplifting memories that the Revd. Scott w ill be receiving from others - is of Charity Christmas seals being sold in Chapel Entry during the latter part of every autumn term. They w ere one old penny each and over the w eeks, lined up w aiting to be ushered into the once-w eekly chapel morning service (taken in those days by the headmistress Miss Stoner) I obviously bought quite a few seals. A half-dozen or so turned up when I w as clearing my childhood home some years ago and one is enclosed. Fiona Hunt (nÊe Williams), 1958
Being a daygirl my memories of the weekly chapel services are the atmosphere of the building and assembling for special occasions. The outstanding memory is of my conf irmation in the Chapel when my colleagues and I were all dressed in white. Bryony House (nĂŠe Braybrooke), 1950
I have very happy memories of St Catherine’s Chapel. I particularly enjoyed the quiet of the 8 o’clock Wednesday morning Holy Communion Service. Carol Ayton (née Hooper), 1952
I appreciated the peace and quiet of the corridor leading to the Chapel - I assume there must have been a rule of silence . My other memory is of leaving to play the organ and making a lot of noise! Janet Covey-Crump (nĂŠe Cleeve), 1957
I was a member of the school choir. I recollect having to be at school early on Thursdays for Chapel. I also have a letter which mentions a production of Murder in the Cathedral with Cranleigh in March 1961. The production was put on in both school chapels and was said to have involved many rehearsals at both sites. Charlotte Thubron (nĂŠe Rolfe), 1952
As borders we had a shortened version of Evensong Monday to Friday before supper, always singing the Magnificat. It is why I still know it so well and love it today. I much enjoyed singing Plainsong. Compline was on a Saturday evening and Evensong every Sunday evening alternately between Chapel and the village church. To be honest, I think by then we had had more than enough and I a m sure today’s girls would be appalled. I do not think the Sermons in Church were very thrilling and have to admit I have no memory of any particular sermon during the whole of my school career. I do remember that my confirmation service made a huge impression on me. Ann Maughan (nÊe Hart), 1957
The dip in the floor where you stand to ring the bell - so many feet have been there. Memorable reading at Carol Service - 9 lessons and Carols in 1952 - I still know the passage off by heart. Laying out the vestments and tidying up before and after Communion. I often feel secret of that knowledge and the meaning and rituals. Patricia James (nĂŠe Tannock), 1952
I remember lining up and filing past the picture of the Madonna and Child. Susan Wainwright and I were selected by Miss Abbott to snuff out the altar candles after the service. I don’t think we were particularly pious - but tal enough to reach the candles. The School is so fortunate to have its own chapel. Vicky Douglas (nÊe Gabriel), 1959
1960s
I loved the Chapel Choir, singing a lovely repertoire of music. At Christmas, the atmosphere before the Carol Service was electric - I think someone was chosen to sing the solo; was it "Once in Royal David's City"? I forget. "The Three Kings" was my favourite and still is. Does anyone remember Miss Ashleigh's dress coming undone at the back while she played the organ? To reveal a bright red slip? (Coloured underwear was banned in those days. Can you believe it??!) Lowri Potts (nĂŠe Garland), 1967
I u sed to drea d ch a pe l ea ch we e k a n d re m e m be r fe e li n g fa i nt t h e re. As I h a d be e n told by t h e si n gi n g tea ch e r n ot to si n g eve r, ju st mi m e, I fou n d n ot hi n g u plifti n g fro m si n gi n g. I a lso re m e m be r ve ry drea ry conf irm ation cla sse s i n t h e ch a pe l. But we we re i n t h e ch a pe l wh e n t h e Du ch e ss of Corn wa ll ca m e i n 2014 a n d I fe lt tot a lly diffe re nt a n d wa s so prou d to be t h e re mi mi n g “Non No bis Do mi n e�. Pe rh a ps t h at rede e ms t hi n gs a little!! Rosemary Richards, 1960
I remember Revd. Legg saying “Lighten our darkness we beseech thee oh Lord” then all the lights fused! G Collum (née Chesher), 1961
Not long after joining the school (as a Boarder) there was a vacancy in the Chapel Choir. I was chosen. Amongst other things we sang with Charterhouse. With the school choir (I was a member) we took part twice in “Let the People Sing�. All good stuff. Alison Martin, 1963
I remember performing “Murder in the Cathedral” with boys from Cranleigh School in 1960 (still remember some of the words.). And, the sound of the organ when we sang ‘Dear Lord and Father of Mankind’ (Songs of Praise 481, by Parry) - all the stops went out for “speak through the earthquake, wind and fire” and the chapel shook until “o still small voice of calm. Vivien Canning (née White), 1962
Saturday morning Chapel was the best - the stories with a meaning, “the boy lived in the house with pink windows“ has haunted me ever since. We were all in love with the curate who took service sometimes! Chapel was a peaceful and safe place. The organ and singing were divine. I stil remember our leaving service. Hilary Naqvi (nĂŠe Lewison), 1961
I have been blessed with a strong faith and I know that The Chapel at St Catherine’s had a great effect on my journey of faith. Compline had a calming effect before bed time at school. I have many fond memories of the music and singing. Anna Hayward (nÊe Grimshaw), 1965
I was a boarder from 1960-1963 as my mother was in hospital. As a result, most of my memories from that time are vague. I do remember, before “en masse confirmation” having to go to chapel early Sunday mornings communion service. We were given a dry cream cracker biscuit and 1/4 pint of milk, which I hated. Not the best memories! Sorry. Jennifer Dexter (née Howell), 1965
Yes, I remember the distinctive smell of polish that was encountered going through the front door at the beginning of term. Also, the smell of brass polish, when compulsorily volunteered to clean the chapel brasses - and then reprimanded for getting it on the wood panelling. Perhaps the best memory is the beginning of the candle lit carol service when a soloist would hauntingly lead the choir in singing in German “Stille Nacht! heilige Nacht! Christine Todman (nĂŠe Horsfield), 1962
Chapel w as a very important and pleasurable part of my school life. I particularly enjoyed the sense of peace and quiet there, as dorms and common rooms were alw ays noisy. I managed my main ambition which w as to be in ‘Chapel Choir’ and loved the sung responses, psalms and descants and communion services. ‘Ces’ (Miss Stoner) took Chapel when I first w ent to St Cats, as there was no Chaplain. She did it as w ell as hold a lovely voice. We then had Rev Irving and then Rev. Scott. My sister Susan and I w ere (w e w ere told by ‘Ces’) the first to be baptised in the Chapel, on 25th October 1964. Elizabeth Thacker (née Mountford), 1968
W hen I was Head Girl I was taught how to set up for the service in the vestry – vestments outs and correct l y presented and chal i ce and ciborium all prepared and ready. I have continued worshipping in my adult l i fe, was churchwarden, now am PCC secretary and sacristan at a l i tt l e Norman church in the parish of St Minver. Chapel l i fe at school definitel y was a strong foundation for my future l i fe as a Christian. Jane Pain (nÊe Kemball), 1965
1970s
I was a chapel bell ringer sometimes, a reader and I stitched one of the celebratory kneelers. Chapel was a lovely part of the school week. I was a day girl so we only attended once a week. I vividly remember the very erect Miss Stoner sitting in her pew! Kim Donald (nĂŠe Jones), 1972
As a border in Bronte house I vividly recall being very hungry on a Sunday morning because Chapel always took precedence over breakfast! Matron would have milk and cream crackers available before the morning service to stave off rumbling tummies! I remember with great fondness, the wonderful choir and my favourite hymn was “The Day Thou harvest Lord is ended.” Margot Evans (née Allan), 1972
Reminiscing I think there was a sense of both warmth and belonging that prevailed which was pretty important when you were a boarder! One breakfast time, Charlotte, my “little sister” (I had been a boarder for a whole year by then!) was not with the rest of the Symes girls so a search was made for her. it turned out that one of the Spanish maids was particularly homesick and Charlotte having long, dark hair and darker complexion, reminded her of home and took her to the Chapel to pray. No harm done but obviously this pretty and peaceful place was a refuge and sanctuary for many.......whatever one’s religion or beliefs and I have no doubt continues to be thus. Amanda Willats (née Way), 1975
The Boarders’ Carol Service was always magical - it started with a solo voice from the other end of the corridor leading to the chapel, singing the 1st 2 lines of “Once in Royal David City”, and others gradually came in as the Choir processed into the Chapel by candlelight. For the rest of the School waiting in the Chapel the effect was quite beautiful. I also remember on Sunday morning, Communion Service, before breakfast, we were always wondering if someone would faint and require the dose of smelling salts kept in the headmistress’ seat! Clare Papavergos (née Hattersley), 1974
The school chapel was my favourite place. The quiet solemnity was all encompassing and comforting. my parents lived 4000 miles away in what felt like a different world! All the initial strangeness became familiar and then normal with chapel. When we sang “As over each continent and island the dawn leads on another day.â€? I knew all was well.The serenity and beauty of sung compline is very special and remains with me today. Diane Stewart (nĂŠe Roberts), 1975
1980s
I can still remember the dim lights, the silence and Psalms. Even though I’m a Catholic living in Italy I still remember a lot of the choir songs. There are some things in life you never forget. Zaira Bindi, 1981
I remember the wonderful St Celia. It was either on the stained glass or on the triptych. There were wonderful Christmas cards of it. I have fond memories of Mr Stubbins and being taught how to chant Psalms properly. The collects (morning prayer) stand out. Once learnt accurately you never forget, I used to be very nervous reading aloud or saying prayers! Jackie Bolton, 1984
The Chapel was my salvation. The only place where there was peace and beauty. Where there was music and soul light. Where we could be still and silent and think. The light on the stained glass windows, the polished brasses, the warm glow of wood and the smell of polish. The thundering of the organ at the end of Evensong and the clear sweet voices of the choir. The Christmas services were magical and the readings beautiful. I have never forgotten the Chapel at St Catherine’s and the joy and peace it brought me. I do hope the Chapel remains the same - always. It is a haven and a touchstone in a spirit starved world. Sophie Love (nÊe Morton), 1981
1990s
I suspect that I grew to appreciate the foundation which Chapel gave me, more in adulthood than at the time. Most especially I loved the magic of music and candlelight at the Carol Service. I vividly recall the sensation of hot wax on the hands as we processed up the aisle and it dripped through the little cardboard holders. We sang so many wonderful anthems! It would be lovely to return to such a familiar space one day and bring my three sons. At this time of year I especially recall the anthem “let us now praise famous men.” It was glorious to sing at the time and would be wonderful to hear it again. Samantha Skarda (née Bodnar), 1992
I remember my first Chapel ever and being taught to sing psalms by Mr Palmer - a whole new meaning for lines, colons and dots! I recall playing 'The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba’ on the violin, accompanied by Miss Watson and being told by a friend “I’d no idea you were any good.” I remember finding there being two windows of St Catherine’s and working out which was 'ours’. Charlotte New (née Rigby), 1995
2000s
I was in Chapel Choir for 5 years and loved having the opportunity to sing such beautiful songs once a week in a reflective space - it was a very humbling experience. Alice McGuire, 2011
I thoroughl y enjoyed Question Time af ter Rev. Tickner’s sermons every week. There tended to onl y be three or four of us will i ng to engage in discussion, but this still fostered some fascinating discussions! Another fond memory was when the Chapel was speci ficall y designated as a pl a ce to pray for victims of crises af ter international tragedies. Emily Kinnon (nÊe Millard), 2010
I really enjoy spending one morning a week in the calm and peaceful chapel and the Reverend's sermons are always relevant, entertaining and thought provoking. Hymn practices with Mr Field are always fun and involve lots of standing up and sitting down and ‘acting out’ of the words! Also, when I think of chapel I think about teachers lining the corridor by the office and shouting ‘hush’ at us louder than we are chatting! Megan Crane, 2016
current girls
At the Spring Service my Mum started to tear up so I said “Why are you crying Mum?” Then she said “because you gave me a Flower! " Amelie, UIIL (age 9)
I like to look up to the gold at the end and pray to Jesus in the middle. I like to listen to Mrs White playing the piano. The sound is magical. Rosie, LIIL (age 8)
When it was your birthday you could light a candle at the back of the Chapel and I remember doing it once, I wasn’t tall enough to reach it so the Chaplain had to help me. Lucy, UII (age 9)
When my birthday was on the week of Chapel, I got to light a Christmas candle as my birthday is in December. Tilly, UIIL (age 9)
I like to look around the Chapel whilst I listen to the LIII reading. I find it peaceful and relaxing. I love looking at the beautiful pictures on the stained-glass windows. Annabel, UIIL (age 9)
I remember on my birthday in PPI I lit the candle on the right hand side but I wanted to light the candle on the left hand side. I was really excited going up to the front. Alice, UIIL (age 9)
When I play I am in a complete separate bubble from everywhere else. I do think about all the people who have played before me and the number of pieces played in the Chapel over the years. Our organ is ‘cute’, it has everything you need and nothing you don’t. You have trumpet sounds, a reed and flutes but no frills. It’s a great organ to begin on and to keep practising on. Joanna Phillips, Organist, Class of 2017
Conducting the Chapel Choir has been a highlight of my U6 year. The tranquil Chapel provides the perfect setting for our weekly rehearsals. No matter how hectic the day has been, one can always rely on the Chapel being a haven for peaceful and beautiful music. Hattie Lucas-Clements, Chapel Choir Conductor, Class of 2015
Bramley, Guildford, Surrey GU5 0DF 01483 899692 association@stcatherines.info www.stcatherines.info