CAPTION: Some of Devon's Church of England schools still have 50% of pupils attending during lockdown
Bishop Calls for Candlemas Day of Prayer for Devon’s Schools
The Bishop of Exeter has called for a Diocesan Day of Prayer for all schools across Devon on Tuesday February 2.
It is hoped that churches and individuals will take time during the day to pray for school staff, pupils and families, for the work being done to deal with the coronavirus pandemic now and for future recovery planning.
Devon has some of the highest numbers of pupils still attending school in England during this third national lockdown.
In some Church of England schools in the county, 50% of pupils are attending, which is higher than the national average.
“You too are in the front line. I thank God for your resilience” Bishop of Exeter
In a letter to the leaders of Devon’s 133 Church of England schools, Bishop Robert said, “I am writing to express my admiration for all you are doing to secure the safety of your pupils and colleagues during this pandemic… you too are in the front line.
“Many staff are now doing two jobs at once: teaching pupils of key workers and vulnerable children in school, plus delivering online lessons for those who are at home.
“Education professionals are demonstrating a level of commitment to the children and young people in their care that is truly inspiring.
“Teachers and those who work with you in our schools are making a significant difference to their life chances. I thank God for your resilience.”
2 February is the feast of Candlemas, the date in the Church calendar when Christians remember the young Jesus being presented by his parents at the Temple for the first time and the hope and promise that others present saw in him.
It is called Candlemas because it was the date when all the church candles for the year were blessed and it was traditional for people to place lighted candles in their windows at home – something Christians have also been encouraged to do during the lockdown as sign of hope.
A special Pencil Case Prayer ,which is particularly aimed at children, has been written by Catherine Beane to mark the Day of Prayer for Schools. She has also created a prayer for adults to pray for teachers.
