Prayer and Liturgy
At The Priory Catholic Voluntary Academy, prayer and liturgy are at the heart of school life. Through a rich variety of worship experiences, we provide opportunities for pupils, staff, families and our wider community to encounter God, deepen their faith and respond to the Gospel message in their daily lives.
Prayer and liturgy enable our pupils to grow spiritually, develop a personal relationship with Christ and become active members of both the school and parish communities. Worship is inclusive, reverent and inspiring, encouraging all members of our community to gather, listen, respond and go forth as witnesses to Christ.
Prayer and liturgy can be experienced through:
Holy Mass
The Eucharist is the source and summit of Christian life and holds a central place within our Catholic community. Throughout the year, pupils participate in Masses celebrated in school and within our parish community. Special Masses mark important events in the liturgical year, Holy Days of Obligation and significant moments in the life of our school. Families, governors and parishioners are warmly invited to share in these celebrations.
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
At key points throughout the year, pupils have the opportunity to participate in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. During Adoration, the Blessed Sacrament is exposed in the monstrance, allowing time for prayer, reflection, silence and meditation. These experiences help children recognise the presence of Christ and deepen their understanding of prayer and worship.
Whole School Celebration of the Word
Each week, the school community gathers for Celebration of the Word. These prayerful occasions are centred on Scripture, the liturgical year and Gospel values, providing opportunities for prayer, singing, reflection and silence. Pupils are encouraged to consider how God’s Word can guide their actions and inspire them to live out their faith in everyday life.
Class Celebration of the Word
In addition to whole-school gatherings, pupils regularly participate in Celebration of the Word within their classrooms. These smaller acts of worship allow children to engage more deeply with prayer and reflection. As they progress through school, pupils take increasing responsibility for planning and leading these celebrations, selecting themes, readings, prayers and reflective activities.
Class Retreats
Retreat experiences provide pupils with opportunities to step away from the busyness of daily life and spend time reflecting on their relationship with God, themselves and others. Through prayer, discussion, Scripture and creative reflection, retreat days support pupils’ spiritual and personal development while exploring themes linked to the liturgical year, Catholic Social Teaching and Gospel values.
Achievement Celebration of the Word
Each week, we gather as a school family to give thanks for the gifts and talents that God has given us. During our Achievement Celebration of the Word, we celebrate pupils’ achievements, recognise acts of kindness, service and commitment, and reflect on how we have lived out our mission and Gospel values throughout the week.
Staff Prayer
Prayer is an important part of our staff community. Staff prayer takes place through meetings, briefings and professional development opportunities, ensuring that our shared mission remains rooted in faith. These opportunities support both spiritual wellbeing and our collective commitment to the Catholic life of the school.
At The Priory, prayer and liturgy help to shape a community where faith is lived, celebrated and shared. Through these experiences, our pupils are nurtured as prayerful, reflective and compassionate individuals who are prepared to make a positive difference in the world.
