Children participating in our Schools Singing Programme are at St Mary’s Cathedral this week for Cantate – the culmination of the learning and work over the past year and a celebration of worship, building confidence and creating community through song.
There are currently ten primary schools in the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust engaged in the programme which is funded by the National Schools Singing Programme.
Canon Simon Lerch welcomed us all with prayer:-
Loving and gracious God,
Today we gather in our Cathedral, brining together children, teachers, families and friends from our local schools.
We thank you You for the gift of music which lifts our hearts, unites our voices and help us to praise You with joy.
As these young people sing today, may their songs be more than notes and words; may they be prayers of thanksgiving, hope and love.
Bless each child gathered here. Give them confidence, happiness and a sense of Your presence among them. Bless their teachers and families who encourage their gifts and nurture their faith. Bless all who have worked to make this celebration possible.
Lord Jesus, You welcomed children and called them close to You.
Help us to follow Your example – building communities of kindness, respect and peace. May the harmony we create in song inspire us to live in harmony with one another.
As our voices rise within these sacred walls, may they bring glory to You and remind us that we are all part of one family in Christ.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
