Bishop Mary Opens School's New Faith Garden
Bishop Mary, Rev'd Emma Ackland, Rev'd Andrew James (Ministry Area Leader for De Morgannwg Ministry Area) and Head of Education Clare Werrett had a wonderful morning with the staff and pupils at St Andrew's Major CinW Primary School celebrating all the hard work that has gone in to creating the school's new faith garden.
The school has overcome several difficulties including some serious flooding at the beginning of the Autumn Term, and it is testimony to the dedication, commitment and love of the staff and parents that not only have they overcome these difficulties, but have managed to work together to achieve a school that is a beautiful testament to the power of teamwork both inside and out.
Bishop Mary was particularly impressed by the question corners in some of the classrooms where pupils are encouraged to think about big questions like ‘is it OK to lie if the truth will hurt someone’s feelings?’
As part of the Faith Garden opening ceremony Bishop Mary was invited to plant a plum tree in the school grounds, and bless the carefully planned outdoor space where pupils are encouraged to pray, or sit quietly amidst the wonder of God’s creation.
Bishop Mary blessed the garden before Fr Andrew invited the children to pray by sitting quietly and listening to the birds singing and leaves rustling in the summer breeze.
Clare Werrett, Head of Education for the Diocese of Llandaff and Monmouth said; “It was a joy to visit St. Andrew's today and to be part of the ceremony to officially open their faith garden.
The garden, planned and created by the children, is a space which everyone in the school community may use for quiet reflection as well as for worship.
I am extremely proud of everyone at the school for their hard work and dedication. It was a privilege to be there.”
A poem written by the children for the occasion:
🌿 "Gerdd y Ffydd" (Poem of Faith)
Yn yr ardd, dan haul a sêr,
Rydyn ni’n gweddïo, yn llawn o gêr.
Blodau’n tyfu, coed yn gwenu,
Yn dangos cariad Duw i’r byd i gyd.
Lle o heddwch, ffydd a dawn,
I garu’n ffrindiau, i fod yn fawn.
Yn yr ardd rydym ni’n dysgu,
I fyw’n garedig, a chredu’n gry.
In the garden, beneath sun and stars,
We say our prayers, with loving hearts.
Flowers grow, and trees will smile,
Showing God’s love to the world all the while.
A place of peace, of faith and grace,
To love our friends, to share this space.
In the garden we learn each day,
To live with kindness, and walk God’s way.
