Page 18 - Southwell School_The Chronicle July 2021

FROM THE CHAPLAIN’S PEN
TYING THE KNOT
o misquote Ratty’s words in Kenneth Grahame’s “Wind wider Anglican ethos) is based upon the belief that it is a in the Willows”, - ‘there is nothing — absolutely noth- gift from God and one that should not be taken for grant- ing — half so much worth doing as simply messing ed. Within marriage, a right atmosphere develops where
about in boats.’ This quotation could be restated as, ‘there is nothing - absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply throwing a wedding!
It is sheer delight to see Old Boys / Old Girls & Staff choos- ing All Hallows Chapel for their nuptials. Gathered in the photo above, are a small representation of couples I’ve had the pleasure to marry over the years. They just happened to be present as part of a function to begin the new school year last January. This was but the ‘tip of the iceberg’, therefore what does it mean to wed in the context of our Chapel in the 21st century? I have a few ideas.
Firstly, the sense of “place” is very clear when it comes to All Hallows as worship space. For one member of the hap- py couple this was a spiritual home for many years, and the lessons caught and taught in Chapel have cemented their desire to bring that spiritual dimension into their marriage. Secondly, Christian marriage (fundamental to Southwell’s
physical love grows and a family life emerges that then forms a keystone of any strong society. It is right, therefore, to marry in a church setting in front of God. A marriage is a public declaration of love and commitment and as such, is made in front of friends and family in a church ceremony.
Perhaps there is also something that is unsaid but so true for many couples - All Hallows Chapel, and its environs, are without doubt one of the prettiest venues for a wed- ding in the Waikato! And there would be few who would argue against this.
Any Old Boy or Old Girl reading this article who may
be contemplating “tying the knot”, give a thought to All Hallows and please get in touch with the School to discuss possibilities for your “big day.”
Yours in Christ
Reverend Canon Neale Troon Chaplain
IN MEMORIAM
It is with sadness that we record the passing of the following. We express our condolences to their families.
David Braithwaite OBE, FACA,
Freedom Holder of Hamilton City, Southwell Supporter Father of Old Boy Mark and grandfather to alumni Georgia, Samuel and Miranda McArthur
Alexander Bruce Jackson
Southwell Old Boy (1974 – 1975)
Father of Old Boys Conrad and Benjamin Jackson
Dr William Alexander Fraser
Southwell Old Boy (1935 – 1937)
Edgar Lawrence Oliver
Southwell Old Boy (1952 – 1956) Brother of Old Boy Trevor Oliver