Prayer at the Heart of St Mary’s
Prayer is at the centre of life at St Mary’s. It shapes our day, our decisions and our relationships. Through prayer, we help every child and adult grow closer to God and live out our mission: “Called by God.” This year, we are focusing on being Pilgrims of Hope, walking together in faith and trust.
Daily Classroom Prayer
Every day begins and ends with prayer in every classroom. Children lead simple, age-appropriate prayers that help them pause, reflect and thank God for His love and guidance. These moments create a calm, faith-filled start and finish to the day.
We also pray before lunch and often include personal intentions, helping children see prayer as a natural part of life.
Child-Led Worship
One of the most powerful expressions of our prayer life is our child-led celebrations of the Word. These give pupils the chance to lead their peers in prayer, reflect on Scripture and share in the joy of worship. It nurtures confidence, leadership and a deeper understanding of God’s Word.
Whole-School Worship
Each week, our whole school gathers in prayer, united as one community of faith. These occasions are a chance to lift our voices in praise and worship, creating a strong sense of unity as we celebrate God’s presence in our lives.
Visits to Church
Regular visits to our parish church strengthen our connection to the wider faith community. Whether for Mass, special services or quiet reflection, these visits help children experience prayer in a sacred and meaningful space.
Creative Prayer
Prayer isn’t just words – it can be art, music, movement and silence. We encourage children to explore different ways of praying so they can connect with God in a way that feels personal and meaningful.
Why It Matters
Prayer at St Mary’s isn’t just something we do – it’s who we are. It helps us live out our mission every day, reminding us that we are pilgrims of hope, walking together in faith, prayer and love.