It has been wonderful today to gather together as a school community, just as our ancestors in bygone years have done, to give thanks to Our Lady, mother of Jesus and mother of all, for her intercessions on our behalf.
Before school, children compared their flowers brought especially to honour Mary.
Year 6 led us in our prayers from the Junior Playground and despite some initial technical issues, there was tangible sense of devotion, prayer and praise as our 400 plus pupils gathered with staff and many parents.
Following a beautifully signed and sung Hail Mary, Year 6 led the whole community on a journey through the school grounds to Mary's garden of Prayers on the top field.
Decades of the Holy Rosary were prayed as we journeyed to Mary's Garden. The whole community gathered on the top field.
The children joined in some traditional Marian hymns whilst the statue of Our Lady was crowned.
"Oh Mary, we crown you with blossoms today, Queen of the angels and Queen of the May"
The traditional hymns were followed by another beautifully signed Hail Mary:
With prayers and hymns sung, the children, staff and parents then each placed a flower in front of the statue of Mary, leaving a beautiful fragrant carpet of intentions.
Loving Mary, Greatest of Women,
Mother of Eternal Glory, Mother of the Golden Light,
Honour of the Sky, Temple of Divinity,
Fountain of the Gardens, Serene as the Moon and Bright as the Sun,
Temple of the Living God, Light of Nazareth,
Beauty of the World, Queen of Life,
Ladder to Heaven, Mother of God.
Pray for us.
Thank you for sharing with our special liturgy this morning. It was simply beautiful to gather together in prayer to be with our Mother, Mary. I always remind the children that Mary's promise is that if we leave our intentions with her in prayer, she will make sure that they are delivered to Jesus. The power of prayer is an amazing thing and today many special intentions were left with Mary.
Thank you to the children for making today's procession such a beautiful and prayerful occasion - as always, your devotion, trust and prayerful ways are inspiring to the adults who joined with you.
As adults, we have much to learn from your faithful witness.
Thank you for sharing it with us.
God bless you, your families and those most dear to you today and always,
Mr White.