Year 5B led a very informative class worship this morning to mark the start of our Lenten Journey. The children reminded us of the importance of the 3 pillars of Lent; Fasting, Almsgiving and Prayer. They also reminded us of the importance of reconciliation during this time; that is seeking forgiveness for our sins.

Year 5 explained that we can all use this time to take part in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and that this Sacrament is a special gift to us from God. It allows us to repair our relationship with God and grow closer to him during this time of Lent. The children also reminded us that God is always waiting patiently to forgive us, we just have to find the courage to turn back to Him.

The children have been learning about John Newton, the author of the sermon that later became the hymn Amazing Grace, and his journey to rediscover God and how he sought forgiveness for his sins. Despite being involved in the Transatlantic Slave Trade as a young man, Newton returned to God and spent the later years of his life doing God's work. The children reminded us that God teaches us that everyone deserves forgiveness - even people that have committed terrible sins such as John Newton - as long as the person is truly sorry and dedicates themselves to being a better person.

The children ended their worship with a beautiful rendition of Amazing Grace accompanied by Valentino on the violin. Well done Year 5 - a very mature and well-delivered class worship.

Year 5B set us a mission for the rest of this week -

to find the courage to admit our mistakes and seek forgiveness from those we have wronged.