EPIPHANY MASS CELEBRATION
On Tuesday, the school community came together to celebrate a special Epiphany Mass. It was a joy to welcome Fr. Lee, who celebrated his very first Mass with us at school. The children joined in beautifully with the singing and responses and listened with care to Fr. Lee and the readings.
Several pupils helped lead the Mass by reading, serving on the altar, operating the projector, and bringing forward the Offertory gifts—they all did a wonderful job.
Fr. Lee reminded everyone that we are like the Three Wise Men. Just as they followed the star to Jesus and brought Him gifts, we are reminded that Jesus came for everyone in the world, and that each of us has gifts to share with one another.
This message links to Catholic Social Teaching, especially the theme of “Human Dignity” and “Solidarity.” Every person is a gift, and we are called to treat each other with love and kindness, sharing our talents for the good of all.
“We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.” – Romans 12:6
And just like the Wise Men, we are called to offer what we have to God and to one another.
#WeWalkWithJesus
A great start to the new term!
CHALKING THE DOOR – AN EPIPHANY TRADITION
This week, Year 3 learned about a special Christian tradition called Chalking the Door, which is often carried out during the time of Epiphany.
After the Epiphany Mass on Tuesday morning, Fr. Lee kindly blessed the chalk that was used in the afternoon. This tradition helps Christians remember the visit of the Wise Men—Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar—who followed the star to find baby Jesus.
A special message was written in chalk above the doors:
20 + C + M + B + 26
This marks the year and the initials of the Wise Men. It also stands for the Latin phrase:
“Christus Mansionem Benedicat”, meaning “Christ bless this house.”
Year 3 chose to mark both their classroom door and the main school entrance, saying together:
“Christ bless this school” and “God is welcome here.”
It was a thoughtful way to begin the new year, reminding us that Jesus is with us in our school, our homes, and our hearts.
#WeWalkWithJesus
A SPECIAL VISIT FROM OUR PARISH PRIEST
Our Year 5 children had a very special visit from Fr Henry this week. He spoke to them about the Our Father, helping the children to understand what each line means and why it is important.
He also talked about his day-to-day life as a priest and answered many thoughtful questions from the children. They were particularly interested to hear about his work in hospitals and were fascinated to learn that he was “on call” that day with the NHS. The children were amazed that he could be phoned in the middle of the night to go and be with a patient if he was needed.
The children listened beautifully throughout the session and asked some excellent questions. It was a calm, respectful and engaging visit that the children clearly enjoyed.
#WeWalkWithJesus
YEAR 6 VISIT FROM FR. JOHN
This week, Fr. John visited Year 6 to talk about the different Sacraments. The children asked some thoughtful questions, which really impressed him.
Fr. John explained the Sacrament of Holy Orders and also demonstrated and explained the Sacrament of the Sick, helping the children to understand both more clearly.
Thank you to Fr. John for taking the time to visit us.
#WeWalkWithJesus
