As part of their plan to make links with all the different parish communities in Gateshead, three of our mission control group went with Mrs Proctor, the school chaplain to visit each local parish. They were greeted and welcomed by some of the parishioners who gave them a tour of the church. The aim of their visit was to find out what each parish offers in the way of worship and social activities for both young and old. They were very pleasantly surprised and inspired by their discovery of all the wonderful things that are already helping to make Gateshead a Christ centered community. The three students have since been working very hard to collate all their findings and have produced a booklet. This booklet will be given out as part of our mission week to all the families and parishioners that attend our special family night. It is hoped that it will be seen as an invitation and a reminder to all that they are always welcome in their local parish here in Gateshead.

Last Thursday 29th September, many of our local parishioners joined our mission control group and the Youth Ministry Team in school to pray and to look at how we, as the Catholic Community of Gateshead can spread the message of this mission. It was an inspirational evening all round with some great ideas from YMT, a lively motivational presentation from the mission control pupils and some very supportive suggestions from our parish representatives. It was great to have the chance to come together and see how we can all move forward together, spreading the message of Christ’s love throughout Gateshead and beyond. As part of the concluding liturgy the parishioners were ask to write a message of hope and encouragement on a special heart sticker that was then placed on our mission heart. This will be displayed in the centre of our school atrium as a constant reminder to the pupils that the community of Gateshead are praying for them.

Two students led an assembly for all year groups in school about what faith meant to them and why it was important to have a mission in school. As part of this, they highlighted the beating heart and spoke about the wonderful prayers and messages the parishioners had sent our school.

Lord our Heavenly Father, as we come before you today, one body many parts, one community on this mission journey together. Help us to recognise our own gifts and talents so that we can then use them to serve you through our care for others. May the fruits of this mission enrich the lives of those in our schools and parishes, as well as touching the hearts of those in our community who have yet to discover your true and lasting love.
Amen