Prayer and Liturgy At Holy Family

Prayer, worship and liturgical celebration are central to our Catholic tradition and form an integral part of the school day. Prayer is encouraged in a variety of methods; – private individual prayer, group prayer, singing practise and whole school prayer.

Each child takes part in a daily act of worship (5-10 minutes) and formal prayers are used to open and close the school day sessions. The children also plan and lead acts of worship within their classes. This happens daily and the children in the upper junior classes lead Lectio Divina. Collective Worship across every class using the same structure: 

  • We gather, using prayers or actions or music. 
  • We then listen to scripture, readings and / or poems. 
  • After that, we respond by discussing the scripture we have heard and think about what it means to us.
  • Finally, we go forth by reflecting on the scripture and taking this forward into our work throughout the day. It is wonderful to see the children excited, enthusiastic and deepening their faith through prayer and liturgy.
  • In each class, there is a prayer and liturgy book where pictures and planning templates are kept as a reminder and record of the acts of worship.

We look forward to our Wednesday Word assemblies which focus on the upcoming Sunday’s scripture reading. Find this here along with activities relating to scripture.

One of our governors, Mrs McDonnell, leads whole school hymn practise. These hymns are chosen specially for each liturgical season. The children and staff really look forward to these visits!

We also recognise and celebrate children’s achievements, both in and out of school, during our weekly Star Award Celebration.  One Good Samaritan Award is also given each week for a pupil who is “following in Jesus’ footsteps.” 

 

Our Worship Areas

Every child has access to a prayer area in the classroom which includes a prayer focus and the class prayer book, as well as Bibles and resources relevant to each class. 

We also have a wonderful worship area which is central to our school. Children enjoy accessing this quiet space during breaks and lunchtimes. They can play quiet music, write prayers or just sit and reflect. It is a delight to see the older children helping the younger children in Reception class write their prayers or scribe for them.

LENT

ADVENT

   

 

 

 

ROSARY