The Cathsoc Year — Autumn Term
[ Trip to Bodiam Castle & Rye |
Guy Fawkes Party |
Trip to Bruges |
Advent Retreat |
Christmas Party |
Carol Service ]
Trip to Bodiam Castle & Rye
Our first Cathsoc trip of the academic year! We visit two famous historic sites
of England. Built in 1385, Bodiam Castle is one of the most famous and
evocative castles in Britain. The exterior is virtually complete and the ramparts
rise dramatically above the moat below. Enough of the interior survives to give
an impression of castle life, and there are spiral staircases and battlements to
explore.
After a packed lunch, which is included in the price, the trip goes on to Rye.
Back in the 13th century, five Cinque Ports were created to defend South-East
England against attack. One of the most compact and prettiest is Rye. Self-contained
on a hill with an encircling wall, Rye was once surrounded by the sea. (This has now
retreated, but on our visit we will go by coach to Camber Sands where the sea now
starts.)
Rye is a model medieval town. Famous as a haunt for smugglers — with the famous
Mermaid Inn in the cobbled Mermaid Street — Rye is the perfect size
for exploring by foot. At almost every turn, you will come upon beautiful historic
houses and medieval streets. In proportion to its size, there are more Tea Shops
and second-hand bookshops than anywhere else in England!
 See Autumn Term Programme for details
Further information on Bodiam Castle
Rye Tourist Information website
Guy Fawkes Party
“Remember, remember the 5th of November, Gunpowder treason and plot. I see no
reason why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot!”
So sing school children in England today, not knowing the true story behind the
events of 5th November 1605. Guy Fawkes Night (or Bonfire Night) is
held in Britain on 5th November. It celebrates the defeat of a conspiracy to blow up
the Houses of Parliament with the then king, James I, in them.
Bonfire Night is celebrated with bonfires and fireworks. But what are the true facts?
After watching a short amusing presentation, we too celebrate the evening around the
fire at St John Stone House.
See Autumn Term Programme for details
Trip to Bruges — The Venice of the North
Our November Cathsoc trip goes by ferry to take us to the other side of the English
Channel: to Belgium and the beautiful city of Bruges — often called
“The Venice of the North” because of the many canals running through it.
Bruges lies in the north of Flanders (Vlaanderen). It was the most important centre
of trade in Northern Europe from the 13th to the 15th century.
Considered by many to be the most well-preserved medieval city of Northern Europe, its
ambience and beautiful architecture make it one of the most exciting tourist attractions
in Europe. Go to see the many museums and churches and/or take a boat trip on the canals.
Afterwards, buy some Bruges lace or the famous Belgian chocolates!
See Autumn Term Programme for details
Bruges Tourist Information website
Preparing for the Coming of Christ
The season of Advent — the four weeks leading up to Christmas — is
traditionally for Catholics a time of preparation for the coming of Christ. For a very
small cost, we travel by coach to Broadstairs to the Community House of the Faithful
Companions of Jesus for a quiet day of reflection and peace.
With a wonderful lunch together plus a visit to the seaside, many find this day a welcome
break from the hustle & bustle of campus life!
See Autumn Term Programme for details
The FCJ website
Our World Famous Cathsoc Christmas Dinner
Renowned throughout the world (!), our free Cathsoc Christmas Dinner
is one of the highlights of Autumn term.
Up to 200 people gather at St John Stone House for
a traditional English Christmas fare: Roast turkey & stuffing, roast
potatoes, Brussels sprouts, followed, of course, with traditional English Christmas
Pudding together with lighted brandy sauce! All enjoyed with free wine!
Follow all this with a party that goes on into the small hours, and Christmas
has really begun...!
See Autumn Term Programme for details
The University Carol Service
The most representative, and the biggest, gathering of students and staff from the
whole of the University takes place each December (during the last week of term) at
the University Carol Service. Organised by the
Chaplaincy and students from
all the Christian Religious Societies on campus, nearly 2000 people attend a forever
memorable evening of readings and carols in the awe-inspiring atmosphere of Canterbury
Cathedral.
Although the event is free, because of the overwhelming demand, tickets
are issued on the Monday/Tuesday during the previous week. If you don’t want to be
disappointed, keep a watch for details of where and when the tickets will be
distributed!
See Autumn Term Programme for details
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