Holy Cross Catholic Primary School - We Are Pilgrims of Hope

General Information

Pilgrims of Hope is a global Catholic movement that encourages individuals and communities to live out the message of hope, compassion and solidarity. Inspired by the teachings of the Church, it invites participants to engage in acts of kindness, justice and service, fostering a culture of care and community.

At Holy Cross Catholic Primary School, we have embraced this initiative to inspire our pupils, staff, parents and governors to embody these values in our daily lives. Through collective action and reflection, we aim to make a positive impact both within our school and the wider community.

Pledges

As part of our commitment to being Pilgrims of Hope, each class has made a pledge. These pledges are simple, meaningful actions that reflect our shared values and contribute to a culture of hope and service.

• Each class has committed to helping a classmate in need, participating in school charity events or engaging in acts of kindness daily.
• Each member of staff has committed to support pupils' spiritual and emotional growth, model positive behaviors and actively participate in community outreach and fundraising.

These pledges are displayed within the school to inspire others and to remind us of our collective commitment to living out the message of hope.

How can you be involved?

• Parents: Encourage and support your children's involvement in service activities, volunteer for school events and promote the values of hope and compassion at home.
   
• Governors: Advocate for initiatives that promote the common good, support school-led campaigns and foster a culture of inclusion and care.

Brighten Up Campaigns

This Autumn, we are organising Brighten Up Campaigns to actively engage our school community in service and outreach. These campaigns are aligned with our Catholic values and aim to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.

Upcoming Brighten Up activities include:

• Holy Cross Helping Hands of Hope: A food bank initiative where pupils and staff will collect and donate food items to support local families in need.
• Care for Creation Projects: Activities focused on environmental stewardship, such as planting in the school garden and organising recycling drives.
• One Million Children Praying the Rosary: Encouraging pupils to join a global movement of prayer, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual connection.
• Rosary Club for Years 5 & 6: A regular gathering where pupils deepen their prayer life and reflect on the mysteries of the rosary.
• Virtual Worship Links with Other Schools: Connecting with other schools to share prayers, reflections and celebrations, building a broader community of faith.
• Special Campaign Days: Aligning with feast days such as the Holy Cross Feast Day and the Month of Mary to highlight hope through action.

These campaigns not only serve others but also provide our pupils with opportunities to live out their faith and make a positive impact.

Celebration Day

On the 21st November, we will host a Celebration Day to recognise and celebrate the efforts of our school community in being Pilgrims of Hope.

Celebration Day Activities Will Include:

• School Assembly: A gathering where we reflect on the activities across the year, share stories of hope and acknowledge the contributions of individuals and groups.
• Prayer Services and Reflections: Opportunities for the school community to come together in prayer, giving thanks for the blessings received and seeking guidance for the future.
• Certificates and Awards: Recognising pupils, staff and families who have made significant contributions to being Pilgrims of Hope.
• Showcase of Campaign Projects: Displaying the outcomes of the Brighten Up Campaigns, such as photos of the activities, food bank donations and other service activities.

These celebrations reinforce our commitment to living out our Catholic values and provide an opportunity to come together as a community to give thanks and look forward to future endeavors.

Pilgrims of Hope is a journey of faith, service and community. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope to those around us.