Prayers and Praise
After all their hard work over the last two years of the GCSE courses Upper V are about to start their public examinations. To celebrate this moment and to give thanks for all they have in their lives the students prepared a Thanksgiving Liturgy on Friday 6th May to which staff and the pupils’ families were invited.
This was a very moving liturgy with contributions from all students. From the first hymn of praise, ‘Shine, Jesus Shine’ through to the dismissal hymn, ‘You shall go out with praise’, the Chapel was filled with prayer and thoughtfulness.
An introduction by Kitty led into the procession of symbols to the altar: a candle, carried by Olivia Smith, a Bible, carried by Olivia Upcraft, a school crest, carried by Mariyan and a globe, carried by Nimrut. Explanations of these symbols were delivered by Franceska, Leah, Bhakti and Nicole.
There followed the hymn, ‘I saw the grass’ with an opening solo by Grace and then a reading from Proverbs by Priyanka.
‘Do not forget my teaching,
but keep my commands in your heart,
for they will prolong your life many years
and bring you peace and prosperity.
Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
bind them around your neck,
write them on the tablet of your heart.’
Manisha read from the Gospel of St John and there followed bidding prayers from Emilija, Tara, Eisher, Rasna and Tallulah.
‘My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.’
After this a slideshow prepared by Eisher and Serena was much enjoyed and then Payal, Maisie, Leah and Michelle gave thanksgiving prayers which led into each girl writing down one thing for which they are thankful. These were brought up as a thanksgiving offering to add to the Thanks Banner which had been placed at the foot of the altar.
‘Be grateful for this moment
for who you are,
for the friendships in life,
and for the faith you have in God.’
Abigail and Aisha then performed a musical interlude duet which was followed by a reflection from Maddie and a final blessing read by Elise.
‘May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.’
After the Liturgy Upper V and their guests gathered on the Chapel Terrace for refreshments and Upper V’s own awards ceremony presented by Maddie, Cecilia and Bhakti.
Thank you Upper V for preparing and delivering this wonderful Thanksgiving Liturgy and every best wish for your forthcoming GCSEs.
Categories: Faith Life Senior Whole School