In a first for Shawnigan Lake School, Ripley's and Kaye's joined forces for a combined House Chapel on Saturday, in a service that Headmaster David Robertson said, "leaves us fulfilling that mandate that we've established for ourselves – that we leave this place slightly different from when we came in."

With just two weeks remaining until Closing Day, the brother and sister Houses touched frequently on a recurring theme of gratitude – gratitude for teachers, House Directors, roommates, teammates, and much more.

In his speech, Ripley's Head of House Kieran F. drew on an analogy from the two house symbols, the Ripley's lion and the Kaye's dove.  "A pride of lions must act peacefully together to be able to work together as a unit," he said.

In a memorable contribution to the prayers, Muskaan G. recited the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra in its original Sanskrit as well as in English. 

In her time at the podium, Mikhala F. mentioned the huge staff turnover Kaye's will see in the coming year, thanking outgoing House Director Erica Hamilton in particular for her contributions.  "To all the people who've made my time and made the challenges more enjoyable, thank you."

After Michael J. and Dalan M. had played everyone into the chapel, Michael joined Amelia M. to perform Safe and Sound by Taylor Swift.  For a second musical offering, Michael and Amelia, along with Mikayla B. and Ivy T., sang The Head and the Heart by Rivers and Roads.  They dedicated the song to Mrs. Hamilton, who also played the guitar, saying "We wanted to thank you for everything you've done for us," and "This is our way of saying goodbye."