Prayer and Liturgy
As a Catholic primary school, collective worship plays a fundamental part of daily school life and enables us all to join together as one in prayer and worship. The school follows the Prayer and Liturgy Directory 'To love You more dearly.'
Growing Closer to God
In its simplest form, prayer is defined as “talking to God.” It is a personal time of opening our hearts to our Heavenly Father and bringing everything in our hearts to Him. Through the Apostle Paul, God asked us to pray. Prayer can be a powerful force for change in our lives, and the importance of doing it on a daily basis should be instilled in our children.
Communication is the foundation for success in any relationship. When we communicate openly and freely with each other, we learn to know each other as individuals. This principle also applies to our relationship with God. By talking to God, we can learn more about who He is and what plan He has for us.
Prayer Has a Purpose
It is important that our children understand that there is a purpose to prayer. Jesus frequently prayed during His life on Earth. He had a reason for doing so. Our prayers are something that God deeply desires. But our prayers are not for His benefit; as a perfect Divine Being, God is complete in His power and knowledge. Our prayers are for our benefit, and this is what we need to teach our children.
Daily Prayer
We pray three times every day:
Morning Prayer
Grace before Meals
End of day prayer
In October and May we pray a chaplet of the Rosary asking for the intercession of Mary for our intentions.
Classroom Worship
Each half-term classroom worship takes place in the school:
Hymn Practice
On Fridays, Year 1 - Year 6 gather together to sing songs of praise to God and practise hymns and songs that we use for our collective worship and Mass.
Whole school Assemblies
The whole school gathers together each week for an assembly linked to the liturgical season, Sunday’s Gospel, or other religious themes such as Saints.
Mass
Throughout the year, we have the joy of celebrating the Sacrament of the Eucharist in school. Our local Parish Priest comes to school and celebrates Mass throughout the year.
Children help to prepare and lead the Mass through Altar Serving, reading and bringing up the gifts during Mass.
Liturgies
Throughout the year, to mark important events in the Church’s liturgical year, we hold special Liturgies such as Harvest and Remembrance.
Carol Service
Each year, upper Key Stage Two children lead the school in a Carol Service at St Margaret Clitherow Church. The story of the Nativity is retold through scripture and carols. Parents and guardians are invited to join us for this special time of worship.
Easter Service
Every Lent, lower Key Stage Two perform the Passion Play. The children re-enact the Passion and Resurrection of Christ through drama, scripture and music. We are joined every year by parents and guardians for this special occasion in preparation for Easter.
