Advent 2020

The children at St. Cuthbert's worked with the Parish of St. Cuthbert to create an Advent display in the Church. The theme was O'Antiphons and each class in KS2, including the staff and the Spiritual Council created artwork based on the theme of one of the seven antiphon psalms. 

The parishioners were thrilled to have this artwork in the church and have even suggested doing something similar for Easter or for Advent 2021. 

Parishioner Feedback

''For me, it was an eye-opener on one of the great treasures of the Church I can't even remember hearing about. It pushed me to look for more info (thanks YouTube, Google and Wikipedia!) and it enhanced my prayer life. Then I realised my favourite Christmas hymn (O come O come Emmanuel) was in fact not a Christmas carol, but an Advent hymn, and it was based on... the great O Antiphons!'' - Confirmation Catechist

''I have learnt and been inspired - what a great idea!'' - Parishioner

''I saw the children's work in the church, it was lovely to think that all the children were involved in producing the displays at Christmas. I went around the church looking at all the displays and took pictures. Amazing 3-D effects, and so many different medias used. I was glad when I recognised some of the words, such as 'Emmanuel' or the quotations, 'the people who walked in darkness saw a great light '. I took the time to read the information on the displays. It was very peaceful looking at the displays. I had a favourite one was O key of  David, all different keys! The manger was made beautifully too.'' - Parishioner and School Governor 

''I really enjoyed and appreciated having my attention brought back to these great antiphons and it was very good to be reminded of the powerful teachings that go alongside them.  As a result, the next time I sing O Come, O Come Emmanuel it will be with a better understanding and with these fantastic images in my mind.

The beautiful displays were vivid and original helping to brighten and warm our rather cold church. I also felt that at a time when the congregation is depleted it felt as if the children’s presence was very much still among us. Look forward to seeing what they can create and teach us next! '' - Parishioner

Nativity 2020

Meanwhile, children in Year One and EYFS worked together to create a Nativity manger scene. The Parish of St Cuthbert's were very accommodating with our request to have our school made crib in place of their more traditional one. It was reported that many parishioners loved the change this year and felt very close to the school by having this as heir focal point of their Christmas prayers.