PICTURE: Tipperary students end the year with a special candlelight mass

On Wednesday, December 20, the entire Ursuline Secondary School came together to celebrate the Christmas Mass of the Gifts in the Cathedral of the Assumption, presided over by School Chaplain Fr Jim Purcell.

The first-year students did a slow movement to Silent Night that filled the aisles of the Cathedral with candlelight and song.

The Ukrainian students sang their traditional Christmas song the Carol of the Bells or Shchedryk in their native tongue accompanied by both Junior and Senior Orchestra.

Fr Jim, in his homily, spoke of the unconditional giving and loving that is the Christmas message.

Often people do not realise the abundance of gifts that they have most, especially the gift of the baby Jesus in their lives.

The mass was a beautiful preparation for the Christmas season, and thanks to all involved in the music, prayers and readings.

Contributed to School Days in the Tipperary Star by the Ursuline Secondary School, Thurles.