On Tuesday 4th June students and staff at The Ellesmere Port Church of England College were invited to participate in a whole school Prayer Space on The Street during lunchtime. They were able to comment or write short prayers on post-it-notes based on news items or current affairs. Also, our current Year 11 students undertaking GCSE examinations were included as a focal point where fellow students or staff could post meaningful messages of support or prayers.
Our school warmly welcomed Jonathan Masters, Youth Missioner for Chester Diocese who was invited to participate as part of the Thy Kingdom Come programme for 2019. Following on from this, Jonathan spoke to Mr Shelton’s class on the theme of mission.
The Chaplain, Mr Ian Anderson was accompanied by Jamie Price and Josie Winstanley from Limitless Pioneers who regularly lead Tuesday lunchtime gatherings, as well as Beth Bensley (Cheshire West Communities Together) and Kathleen Sharps, a member of the School Pastor team.
This event is part of a rolling programme where Prayer Spaces are a vital part of the spiritual life of The Ellesmere Port Church of England College and these will be take place regularly where students and staff will be encouraged to consider and reflect upon key themes.
Mr Anderson noted that, “It was so helpful to see encouraging comments or prayers made on topical issues and seeing that prayer can be a vehicle for change locally, nationally and globally.”
Kathleen Sharps remarked, “Prayer spaces done in this way are so valuable in the life of our school community. It was a joy to see so many students engaging positively.”