There are many aspects to the College motto and many ways to approach what it means. One way of looking at what it means is how the Bible uses this term. Paul encourages Christians to conduct themselves in the most excellent way in 1 Corinthians chapter 13, and that way is love.
This is what is says:
'And yet I will show you the most excellent way.
If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
8 Love never fails.'
Love is the most excellent way. But our concept of love is sometimes very romantic. During one of our staff days, Bishop Peter Linn encouraged all our staff, that love is ‘painful’ and ‘tough’ and that deeds without love are worthless. He also said to staff that love is indispensable, it is focussed on other people and shows itself in actions.
This the more excellent way we hope our staff will approach the learning of our students and how everyone in the community of Thomas Hassall will be united.
Stuart Tye
College Chaplain
