Accepting Christ

As we look ahead to the 14th Sunday of Ordinary Time (Year B), we discover that Jesus is rejected by his own community. The people of Nazareth can't possibly believe that he, the carpenter's son, is being called the Messiah. The crowds laugh and turn him away: they think he is an imposter.

We know, even within our own community, the children can struggle desperately to respect and celebrate the differences between themselves. Children are very quick to spot what's different but often a lot less eager to embrace and celebrate that difference. Our mission is to demonstrate that acceptance and tolerance of difference is a sure way to building God's kingdom on earth. God loves us because of our differences - that's how he made us!

Celebrating St Peter

In 3P this week, we celebrated the life of St Peter by learning about how he lived his life and why he is known as the 'rock' of the Church. Throughout the day we did lots of activities, one activity focused on 'giving a gift' to someone in the class showing an act of kindness just as St Peter showed a similar act of kindness to the lame. Some children gave a hug, a smile or even shared their gel pens! The children also painted a beautiful canvas of St Peter showing that he is the 'keeper of the keys'. Throughout the day, the children had the opportunity to go into 'jail' and spend some time on their own in a dimly lit room (just as St Peter would have done while in prison). Many children said they were frightened at first but then felt a sense of calm. Some used it as a time to speak to God and say a prayer. We had a lovely day celebrating our wonderful class saint.

It's all Greek in Year 3

Today was a very different day in Year 3, we were transported back in time to 460BC Ancient Greece. In the morning the children dressed in their finest togas enjoyed a feast of Greek food fit for the gods. Here are a few of the children's reactions:

"It was a great opportunity for try new flavours and discover what the Greeks ate. "

"I've changed my mind about some foods I thought I didn't like."

"I liked seeing how much food is still around today from Ancient Greek times."

The children then tried using an abacus to work out their numbers and calculations with the added challenge of writing using the Greek Number system. We then enjoyed exploring the Greek alphabet and writing each other messages in Greek.

In the afternoon the children were taken back in time with the Rainbow Theatre Company acting out scenes from Ancient Greece. A great time was had by all!

Our Islamic Expert

2E were treated this week to a masterclass in Islam. It was an absolute joy to hear Junaid speak so confidently and passionately about his faith. He explained to Year 2 all about the five pillars of Islam and how to prepare for prayer. He even brought in some special artefacts from home, like his prayer mat, to help explain how precious his experience of prayer is.

It is always a blessing to discuss with young people their faith and family traditions. We know that there is so much more that unites us than divides us - thank you so much Junaid for enriching our community.

Wonderpants!

What better way to end the week than with Miss Wade and Underpants Wonderpants? - Who knew your pants could save the world!?