Our end of year celebration Mass for the service of Michael and Mary Ryan to St Simon Stock Catholic School was a marvellous occasion

Mary and Michael Ryan were devoted to our school and Catholic education.  Mary served our school for 37 years and Michael 35 years. All four of their hard-working children, Michael, John, David and Margaret,  were students at St Simon Stock until the age of 18 and as a result of their hard work enjoyed huge and deserved academic success. David was a talented sportsman and Margaret was Head Girl. All went to Russell Group Universities including Oxford.

Michael was an Assistant Head Teacher and teacher of Mathematics before his retirement but it was Mary whom we were celebrating for her retirement. Former Head-teachers and colleagues came to celebrate the Mass which was led by Bishop Paul Mason prior to his promotion to become Bishop of the Armed Forces. A reception followed the Mass.

At the reception, the Ryan family donated a copy of the Vladimir, Mother of God icon as a thanks to the School. It is the holiest treasure of the Russian nation. It holds a place in the entrance to the School.