Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6
Prayer & Liturgy
At Holy Family School, prayer and liturgy are integral to our daily life, fostering a deep sense of community and spiritual growth among students, staff, and families. Our approach is guided by the principles outlined in the "To Love You More Dearly: Prayer and Liturgy Directory," ensuring that our practices are inclusive, reflective, and spiritually enriching.
The Planning, Content and Delivery of Liturgical Prayer
Liturgical prayer is the term used to describe communal prayer within our school which follows liturgical patterns. Our programme of liturgical prayer at Holy Family aims to embed daily patterns of prayer within school life and to reflect the rhythm of prayer life within the Church. It is planned following a structure with reference to the Church’s seasons, RE curriculum, feast days and other significant dates. A variety of prayer styles are used appropriate to the age of the children and the occasion.
Daily Prayer
Each classroom features a focal point reflecting the liturgical season, fostering reverence and understanding among children.
- Classroom Prayer: Each school day will begin and end with prayer. Teachers will lead pupils in age-appropriate prayers, fostering a habit of regular communication with God. We have developed a comprehensive long-term plan for prayer in our school, integrating specific prayers linked to the Catholic tradition.
- Grace Before Meals: Prayers will be said before lunch to thank God for the food provided.
Embracing the Celebration of the Word
At Holy Family, we warmly welcome the Celebration of the Word as a key part of our spiritual and educational journey. This daily practice is thoughtfully included in our school schedule to support the spiritual growth of our students. We make sure that scripture is relevant and understandable for all ages. Our readings and reflections are carefully chosen to match each student’s developmental stage, helping guide them in their everyday lives.
In our dynamic learning environment, students are encouraged to actively participate in the Celebration of the Word. They read scripture, lead prayers, and share personal reflections, which helps them connect more deeply with their faith. As they advance through their school years, they take on more responsibility in planning and leading these sessions, building leadership skills and a deeper spiritual understanding.
Our whole school community comes together for special Celebration of the Word events, creating powerful moments of unity and strengthening the bonds of shared faith among students, staff, and families. We understand how important parents are in their children’s spiritual growth and invite them to join us in the Celebration of the Word, fostering a stronger connection between home and school.
Join us as we celebrate the beauty of the Word and embark on a transformative journey of spiritual growth and discovery at Holy Family . Explore our School Jotter Calendar for upcoming events and join us in this sacred journey of faith.
School Masses
Children are actively involved in the preparation and celebration of Mass, serving as altar servers, readers, presenters of gifts, and choir members. These roles help in the smooth running and solemnity of the worship. Whole school Masses are held at the start and end of terms, on Holy Days of Obligation, and significant feast days. Additionally, designated class Masses are conducted throughout each term, with increasing levels of involvement as students progress through each year group. This engagement helps foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the liturgy. Community participation is encouraged, and specific dates and times can be found on our School Jotter Calendar.
Sacramental Preparation
We support the preparation and celebration of sacraments such as First Holy Communion and Reconciliation in collaboration with local parishes. Prayer and assemblies are used to pray for the children who are involved in the programme. It is also a reminder to other children about the importance and relevance of the Sacraments. Children and parents attend meetings in the Parish Rooms and at church as part of the Sacramental Programme. They also complete work in class as part of their preparation. Catechists Work with the children at the training sessions and offer their prayers and support.
Seasonal Liturgies
Special liturgies are held during key liturgical seasons such as Advent and Lent to deepen pupils' understanding and participation in the Church's calendar. These liturgies are designed to be inclusive and cater to the diverse needs of our students. We are grateful for our Holy Family Church, where we hold special Masses and opportunities for prayer and reflection during Advent, Lent, and the months of the Holy Rosary. Our doors are open to parishioners, parents, and governors, fostering a strong partnership with our parish priests and local parishes. Together, we create a nurturing environment where the celebration of the Word is central to our spiritual journey. Specific dates and times can be found on our School Jotter Calendar, or our Parish Newsletter.
Eucharistic Adoration
Each class has dedicated sessions of Eucharistic Adoration at the local church, led by our local catechist. These sessions allow students to spend time in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, deepening their relationship with Christ. During these sessions, students engage in age-appropriate prayers and reflections, helping them understand and appreciate the significance of the Eucharist in Catholic worship. Specific dates and times can be found on our School Jotter Calendar.
Inclusivity
Our prayer and liturgy practices take into account the religious and educational needs of all participants, including:
- Those with special educational needs, ensuring they receive the necessary support and adaptations.
- Members of the worshipping community in church.
- Students for whom school is their first and only experience of church.
- Individuals from other Christian traditions or faith backgrounds.
By integrating these principles, Holy Family School ensures that prayer and liturgy are accessible and meaningful for every student, in alignment with the inclusive spirit of "To Love You More Dearly: Prayer and Liturgy Directory"(Catholic Education UK) (Catholic Education UK) (ICN).