Shared Worship with Year 1 and Year 5

This week at school, the focus of our class worship was ‘shared worship’. Year 5 had the wonderful opportunity to lead a special shared worship session for Year 1, all centred around the feast of Christ the King, which the Church celebrated on Sunday.

Some children from Year 5, including some Pupil Chaplains, helped to prepare our worship. We began by gathering together quietly and listening to some special music, before making the Sign of the Cross to open our special time of worship.

Together, we explored the theme of Christ the King. The children thought about what a king might normally wear or how a king might behave, and then compared this to Jesus. We reflected on how Jesus did not wear jewels or a grand crown, and instead showed His kingship through kindness, humility and love.

We listened to a simplified version of Luke 23:35-43, which helped us understand that Jesus forgives, welcomes and loves everyone, even in the most difficult moments. We also spoke honestly about how forgiveness can sometimes feel hard, but Year 5 reminded us that Jesus shows us the perfect example to follow. Year 5 even asked some thoughtful questions about the Gospel, and with their support, Year 1 shared their ideas with growing confidence.

To end our worship, we listened to more peaceful music and were guided through the Five Finger Prayer, a simple and meaningful way for younger children to learn how to pray. Each finger represents a different group of people to pray for, such as those closest to us, those who teach and guide us, those who lead us, those who are vulnerable and finally ourselves. It helps children to slow down and think carefully about the different needs of others.

We had a wonderful time sharing our worship together. Year 5 enjoyed leading the session and offering their ideas with maturity, and Year 1 did incredibly well to listen carefully and take part.

What is one kind thing that you can do for someone today?