Spiritual Life
St Columbanus' College is a Catholic college owned by the three local parishes in the Bangor area.
The college is however fully inclusive and we welcome applications for admission from pupils of all faiths. We currently have pupils from a wide variety of faith backgrounds on our roll. Our philosophy is that prayer and the Gospel are an integral part of the education process and we seek to promote a culture where Christian values are lived out day by day. Our staff promote hard work, self improvement, responsibility, fairness, and development of positive relationships day by day. We have over the years developed excellent links with our local community. We have many chaplains and Ministers of various denominations who visit the college regularly to help celebrate prayer and reflective services, and we are grateful for thier ongoing support.
Our school chaplains play an integral role in College life by assisting throughout the year at our liturgical services. Celebrations are held for the opening and closing of the school year, and around other key festivals including Christmas, Easter and on our patron St Columbanus' feast day. There is a celebration of Mass for parents, staff and pupils to welcome our new Year 8 pupils and a thanksgiving Mass to acknowledge our leavers in Years 12, 13 and 14. Throughout their time in the college pupils have the opportunity to attend various conferences where they are encouraged to reflect on their own values and beliefs. They will also be encouraged to participate in retreats and visits to places of religious significance. Pupils are encouraged to lead services to improve social confidence and public speaking skills in addition to developing spiritually.
We have a school oratory for prayer services and quiet reflection. The students have set up a succesful Faith Development Group to assist with the strengthening and nurturing of the faith of all students.
Students also engage in many charitable events both inside and outside school. A St Vincent de Paul group has been established to help those in need in our local community. The college is also actively involved in fundraising for other charities including HUGS and Trocaire. Many of our pupils and staff are able to add hours of voluntary and community work to their profiles. Sterling work has been carried out of which we are justifiably very proud - and we will strive to sustain and develop this in future.