5th March 2025

This morning's Church Collective Worship was led by Revd Sian, who noted the church colours had changed to purple as we have now entered Lent. Revd Sian started collective worship by talking about the reason for Lent, and whether anyone knew the reason for Shrove Tuesday, and then the act of giving something up for Lent. She explained that Shrove Tuesday, also known as pancake day, was from many years ago when Christians gave up eggs, flour and milk, and this was therefore used up the day before to ensure there was none in the home from the first day of Lent. She also explained that giving something up for Lent, is a physical representation that has a spiritual impact, drawing us closer to God, repenting of our mistakes, and turning back towards him. Revd Sian explained how today is Ash Wednesday, where Christians come together for the imposition of ashes - signing of the cross, with a mixture of oil and ashes. Revd Sian explained that the ashes are from the palm crosses which Christians receive on Palm Sunday each year. Revd Sian invited some children from the different year groups forward, and demonstrated the signing of the cross (imposition of ashes) with a small card image of a cross. She then invited another child, to sign her with an actual cross using the ash and oil mixture, will be used in St Patrick's Church this evening. As the signing of the cross takes place, the following words are said: 'remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return, turn to Christ and be faithful to him'. The year 6 Crew, along with a couple of year 5 students, then came forward and shared some beautiful prayers, including prayers for Revd Dee's speedy recovery, followed by everyone singing the Lord's Prayer together. We then sang that wonderful hymn 'Faith as Small as a Mustard Seed' with some children from year 1 leading the actions with me. Birthdays were celebrated for George in Yr 1, Roshan in Yr 4, and Jasmine in Yr 5, to whom Happy Birthday was sung the Jesus Way. Mrs Perry St Patrick's Church & School