Sense of the Sacred
A physical environment that uses the intellect, art, design and space to engage the senses contributes to the religious identity and culture of a community. The aesthetic, social and physical environment is a powerful means by which a school community creates, values and reflects a sense of the sacred. Above all, a Catholic school is to be a place that affirms life in all its beauty and diversity, ensuring that the creative energies and output of students and staff are valued. Besides helping to foster a sense of pride in the school, well planned and cared for grounds and gardens can enhance a sense of the sacred. A school environment that is cared for can make a positive contribution to faith development. Catholic schools also endeavour to develop a social environment in which teachers, students and parents know they are valued as persons of worth and dignity, created in the image and likeness of God. |
Creating a Sense of the Sacred
At Holy Spirit this is evidenced by:
At Holy Spirit this is evidenced by:
- Church Seasons recognised in the foyer and classrooms with posters and colours
- Symbols throughout the school that tell our story - Prayer Stones, Medallion, Mercy Cross, Art work created by Middle School students
- Class Prayer Space with symbols that reflect our story
- Crosses visible throughout the school
- Sacred Time each day - Angelus bells ring at the church - classes use different ways to pray and reflect at this time
- Retreat Days for staff and students - Leadership, Sacramental, Staff
- What Prayer Looks Like at Holy Spirit School - document created by staff and class sharing of this in the newsletter
Enhancing the Religious Culture
At Holy Spirit this is evidenced by:
Resourcing for a Sense of the Sacred
At Holy Spirit this is evidenced by:
At Holy Spirit this is evidenced by:
- Displays around the school to reflect particular seasons of the Church, events and the life of the community
- Whole school celebration for the Feast of Pentecost - Liturgy, Pastoral Care Groups and activities, shared lunch
- Inviting the school and parish community to share in these events and celebrations
- Writing and sharing of our class vision statements at assembly
- Sacred Time - Angelus bells
- Sharing of celebrations and events, special days in our school newsletter
- Professional development related to the school goals
Resourcing for a Sense of the Sacred
At Holy Spirit this is evidenced by:
- Mercy Cross to be used at school celebrations
- Support for art teacher to work with students to create a Sense of the Sacred
- Building resources for Whole School liturgical celebrations, Sacred Time and Sacred Singing - music, books etc.
- Consult with BCE -EO Arts to create spaces within our school to create spaces
- Use of the Religion Portal and Resource Link