FAREWELL TO OUR SENIOR CHAPLAIN
At assemblies , students shared delightful anecdotes and reflections on what
Philip means to them . Words they used to describe him are : wise , compassionate , humble , chatty , hilarious , welcoming and open .
Chapel service A special Chapel Service for the whole community was held to farewell Father Philip . The service was a wonderful opportunity for the community , including current and past parents , staff , Old Guildfordians and current students to farewell Philip . Although we are sad to see him go , we cherish his presence and celebrate his time at Guildford Grammar School .
At the service , Old Guildfordian , Andrew Wirth ( Be 2012-2017 ) shared an address which captured our sentiment . Following is an extract from Andrew ’ s speech .
Good morning everybody . It is my absolute privilege to address you today at such an occasion in the life of our School , on a day and at an event where we recognise and celebrate Father Philip Raymont .
I often spend time reminiscing about my time here and how I have forged a powerful connection with this place and its people . I feel as though I speak for many Old Guildfordians , where , I wish there was a
way to know you were in ‘ the good old days ’ before they are behind you . Of course , as an Old Guildfordian , and blessed with wonderful opportunities to re-engage with the School community and its people , I often think back to what I appreciate and value most about my time here . Many things come to mind :
• The beautiful campus which invites us
• The abundant facilities which enable us
• The resolute staff who inspire us
• The loyal friends who foster us
• The rich culture which welcomes us
• The plentiful opportunities which equip us
• And of course , spending meaningful time with people who care for us .
These things and these people have significant meaning to all of us . And today we celebrate them .
I have known Father Philip for many years , and over these years , I ’ ve been honoured to call him a teacher , a mentor , a colleague , and a friend . And in this regard , I know that I ’ m not alone .
Guildford Grammar School and all that it stands for , all that it represents , is difficult to envision without , in some way , including Father Philip . Father Philip is woven within the fabric of Guildford Grammar School . He is humble , generous , kind and always offers humorous stories , engaging anecdotes , and abundant wisdom .
Guildford Grammar School , The Old Guildfordians Association , students , families and friends , all thank you Father Philip , for the generosity , love and service you ’ ve devoted to our School . We wish you great joy and happiness as you begin new ministry as Priest-in-charge of the Parishes of Beverley and Brookton , Quairading and York . We are excited that you may continue to engage with the Guildford Grammar School community in this new role ; whether Old Guildfordians , current students and families , and indeed , future families to our School and this community .
His bounteous gifts and admirable commitment to the service of God and to others , will certainly have a meaningful and powerful impact on his new ministry .
Father Philip , from myself , and from all whose lives you ’ ve touched , whether as a teacher , a mentor , a colleague or a friend , we wish you well in what is to be an exciting and fulfilling new chapter for you .
Your presence and legacy will remain here at Guildford Grammar School . For this , we are grateful .
God bless you Father Philip , and Go Forward !
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