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Prayer and Liturgy
Prayer and liturgy are central to life at St. John’s Catholic Primary School, guiding our community's faith journey and fostering a deep connection with God. Parents are invited to attend Mass with the school at our parish church, where they have the opportunity to engage in a variety of liturgical celebrations throughout the year, such as the Stations of the Cross. Our class assemblies are always rooted in a Religious Education theme, and twice a year, parents are welcomed to witness their child present these faith-based reflections. Regular parent newsletters keep families informed of parish events, encouraging them to attend with their children and stay connected to the life of the Church.
The daily Celebration of the Word—whether in individual classes or as a whole school—is an integral part of our faith life. These sessions provide a chance for staff and pupils to listen to, reflect on, and discuss scripture at a level appropriate to each class. They are centered around significant events, current issues, or the liturgical year and draw on a variety of resources, including TenTen Resources, Mark Ten Mission, Magister, and school-generated materials. These reflections ensure that the Word of God remains alive and relevant to our students' daily experiences.
In every classroom, prayer is a regular and meaningful practice throughout the day. Students participate in prayer at various times, allowing space to pause, reflect, and connect with God. The children are encouraged to pray for a variety of reasons and often share personal intentions, understanding the power of communal prayer. Each classroom is equipped with a dedicated prayer table, featuring significant symbols of our faith, such as a cross, a Bible, a candle, and a cloth representing the liturgical season. These prayer spaces serve as focal points for reflection, creating a sacred atmosphere where students can deepen their relationship with God.
Opportunities for prayer and reflection are also embedded in our Religious Education lessons, with moments for quiet contemplation enhancing pupils' understanding of faith and how it applies to their daily lives. Both traditional prayers and those written by the children themselves are placed on the prayer tables, promoting a personal connection to prayer. Additionally, special times in the school year, such as Easter Liturgy and the Stations of the Cross, are celebrated with reverence, allowing the entire school community to come together in faith. During the holy seasons of Lent and Advent, we hold assemblies that unite us in preparation and reflection.
The liturgical calendar plays a vital role in shaping the rhythm of life at St. John’s. Saint’s days, feast days, and Holy Days of Obligation are observed by the entire school community, with leaders thoughtfully planning the school’s liturgical calendar to ensure that all students have the opportunity to participate in the Eucharist during school-wide Masses. Throughout the year, we celebrate key feast days and special events, both in school and at the parish church, where our Parish Priest regularly leads Mass, services, and other forms of worship. Parents are always warmly welcomed to join in these sacred moments.
During Lent, our Parish Priest also visits the school to administer the Sacrament of Reconciliation, offering students a powerful opportunity to experience God’s mercy and grace. Through these rich liturgical and prayer experiences, we aim to nurture the spiritual growth of every child, strengthening their understanding of their faith and helping them to live it out in their everyday lives.
Morning Prayers
Early Years 1
Oh my God, I give to you, all I think and say and do.
All my work and all my play, I will give to God today.
Early Years 2 and Key Stage 1
Good morning, Lord, we praise your holy name
And thank you for giving us this lovely new day!
Key Stage 2
Thank you, O God, for another day.
Help me to spend it wisely and to spend it well.
Grant that everything I do today may be done as well as I can do it.
Grant that everyone I meet may be happier for the meeting.
Keep me all through today, conscientious in my work,
truthful in my speaking and loyal to my friends
and faithful to those who love me.
Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.
Lunchtime Prayer
Bless us, Oh God, as we sit together.
Bless the food we eat today.
Bless the hands that made the food.
Bless us, Oh God.
Home Time Prayers
Early Years 1
Bless us, Oh God, as we sit together.
Bless the food we eat today.
Bless the hands that made the food.
Bless us, Oh God.
Early Years 2 and Key Stage 1
Now the day is over we lift our hands and say thank you heavenly Father for today.
We’re sorry for the wrong things but glad about the right.
Keep us heavenly Father in your love tonight.
Key Stage 2
God our Father, I come to say thank you for your love today.
Thank you for my family and all the friends you give to me.
Guard me in the dark of night and in the morning send your light.
Prayer Books