Catholic Life

“Love One Another as I Have Loved You.”

John 13:34

Pupils at St Paulinus have a strong sense of belonging both within the school and the wider community. They understand the Catholic nature of the school and our Mission Statement and can discuss its meaning and relevance to their own lives.

Children take responsibility for leading prayer experiences within school.  These sessions are a joy and are deeply rooted in their own faith journeys. We also invite parents to come into school for ‘Stay & Pray’ sessions at least once every term.

Children actively plan and lead prayer within their classes, and this is progressive throughout their time in our school. Children also take part in the preparation for school Mass and have an active part e.g. readings, preparation of gifts, bidding prayers.

The choir is used to leading the school in musical prayer. They understand the words of St Augustine when he said, ‘To sing is to pray twice.’ This can be seen in our weekly whole school Celebration of the Word as well as School Mass with the parish. Our links with our St Paulinus Parish are strong and this collaboration is just one element of it.

We work with our St Paulinus Parish to take part in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. We are proud to know the love of Jesus and how His presence in the Blessed Sacrament demonstrates His love for us. Parents are invited to take part and join us in this special prayer experience.

We also are a valuable part of the wider Guisborough community contributing to the St Nicholas Church festivals and visiting local care homes in order to sing carols during Advent. After our May Procession dedicated to Mary, the Mother of God, pupils deliver flowers to local residents. All of this contributes to the pupils’ sense of belonging to the school community and their relationship with those from different backgrounds. Children are proud of this work that they do to support our fellow brothers and sisters.

Children respect the religious areas of our school with sacred spaces throughout the school, including one in each classroom. Our recent Chapel area is a welcome addition to the prayer life of the school. Our pupils enjoy moments with God and like to explore a variety of prayer opportunities.

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