More than 600 pupils and staff from across Renfrewshire took part in Pilgrims in the Park, an event bringing together the area’s denominational primary schools.
Primary 7 pupils and staff gathered at St Mirin’s Cathedral in Paisley for Mass on Wednesday, 9th September, before walking to Barshaw Park for activities about their schools’ patron saints.
Secondary school pupils from across Renfrewshire’s denominational school catchment areas led the activities. The primary schools were grouped in clusters and visited three stations in the park for learning, reflection and discussion.
The event also gave pupils a chance to meet others as they prepare to move to secondary school.
Lyndsey Gardyne, head teacher at St John Bosco Primary School, said: “It was our privilege and pleasure to organise Pilgrims in the Park for out P7 children in Renfrewshire.
“It was inspiring to see so many P7 pupils gathered together, enjoying the opportunity to reflect, celebrate and listen to the young people from our secondary schools. The sense of community, faith and belonging was evident throughout the day, making it a truly uplifting experience for everyone involved.
“We hope that Pilgrims in the Park will remain a cherished memory for our children and young people for many years to come.”
Jacqui McBurnie, of St Anthony’s Primary School, said: “Pilgrims in the Park was a truly special experience and one which I was delighted to help organise. Seeing hundreds of our young people come together to celebrate their faith, their schools and the patron saints who are such an important part of our shared heritage was incredibly inspiring.
“What made the day particularly powerful was seeing faith brought to life through the children and young people themselves. Our P7 pupils had the opportunity to pray, reflect, learn and celebrate together, while listening to and learning from pupils in our secondary schools. The enthusiasm, joy and sense of belonging throughout the day demonstrated beautifully what it means to put our faith into action.”
Photo: St John Bosco Primary pupils at the Mass in St Mirin’s Cathedral before Pilgrims in the Park.
Photo Credit: Renfrewshire Council
Photo: Pupils display posters about patron saints at Pilgrims in the Park.
Photo Credit: Renfrewshire Council