At Our Lady of Grace Catholic Junior School, our vision is to make racial justice, diversity and anti-racism central to our curriculum and practice so that everyone feels valued and know they truly belong. We carefully plan our curriculum to ensure that it reflects the rich diversity of the community we serve. This is particularly important in RE where we try to understand the reality of God creating us all in his image. We actively seek images, stories, role models, saints, church leaders, and experiences which make every child truly seen and valued. 
 

God does not discriminate: each person is equally called and valued and no-one can escape his infinite love and mercy. He is also fair and unbiased, protecting his people, especially those who are disadvantaged or suffering. 
(Racial Justice, Equality and Diversity in Sacred Scripture)

“Those who say they love God, must love their brothers and sisters.”
1 John 4:19-21

“Love one another, share with those in need, live in peace.“

Romans 12: 9-18

“God created all people in His image."

Genesis 1:26-31

3S Assembly - Black History Month

On Thursday 10^th October, 3S hosted their class assembly on the theme of Black History Month. 2024 is set to be a transformative year. Black History Month has unveiled its compelling narrative theme: Reclaiming Narratives. Reclaiming Narratives is more than just a theme- it is an invitation. An invitation for everyone to take part in understanding and shaping how our shared stories are told going forward.  In 2024 we have the unique opportunity to not just tell stories but take control of the narrative itself ensuring that Black history is told with respect, dignity and the accuracy it deserves. 

Jesus taught us that we should treat everyone equally. His greatest commandment of all was ‘Love your God with all your heart’ this was followed by his second commandment ‘you shall your love your neighbour as yourself.’  

God created us in his image, he created us all in his likeness and the colour of our skin, the way we look or the languages that we speak do not change that. 

Scripture teaches that all humans are created in God’s image. In the Gospel, Jesus ministered to everyone, regardless of their gender, race or status. In the early Church as we are told about in Acts, it was established that ‘God does not show favouritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right’ and St Paul reiterated this when he stated, ‘for you are all one in Christ Jesus.’

Giving a voice to those who have been silenced for so long is not easy and it means that power, ego and privilege are all let go of. The Racial Justice, Equality and Diversity teaching of the church tells us that even if it is uncomfortable, just like Jesus, we have to be the light in the darkness the voice in the silence, the body of change.  

Thank you 3S for such a fantastic assembly!

Please watch their presentation by clicking HERE

Year 5 Assembly - Black History Month.  Please view our assembly here

Racial Justice Sunday 2024: Seeing one another in the life of the Church

This year the theme for Racial Justice Sunday is 'Seeing one another in the life of the Church'. Pupils celebrated Racial Justice Sunday by learning about the saints of different races and cultures who reveal Christ to us. This learning aims to continue to encourage pupils to see themselves in the life of the Church. Pupils also completed activities to create a display for RJS 'Choices and Voices' as a constant reminder that we all have a voice in the church and within our school community. Year 3/4 completed a handprint and prayer, thanking God for the different saints whom he sent to proclaim His Word, whilst Year 5/6 completed posters about the importance of one of the saints learnt about and their impact on our faith. This work was displayed in the hall.

A prayer from the Diocese of Westminster

God of our past, present and future, 
you created each one of us in your image and likeness,
help us to recognise you in each person.

As we pray for end to suffering caused by racism
lead us this day to walk with one another,
pray with one another and work together,
so that we create a future based on justice and healing,
where all can fulfil the hope you have for all peoples. 

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.