On Friday 1 May children from Key Stage 2 at Whittington CE Primary School gathered in the grounds of Whittington Church, stopping at various places to pray for our church and community.
‘Clipping the Church’ is an ancient custom which involves the church congregation or local children holding hands in an inward-facing ring around the church. It is derived from the Anglo-Saxon word for ‘embrace’ and is a human chain around a church to symbolise their love for the place and the parish.
Teacher, Tracy Lister explains:
“The event was led by the children, with Year 6 pupils leading us in prayer and children from all classes leading us around to the different stops around the church building.
Our first stop was at the Lychgate, where we remembered those who have fought in wars and prayed for peace. Whilst there we also looked towards the school and prayed for the whole school community. We then moved to the West door, which was open so that we could see into the church - and prayed for the Christian Community.
Next, we moved towards the Venerable Yew Tree and turned to face the city to pray for the people of Worcester. Finally, we moved to the East End and looked out over the farms to pray for our parish, village and the farms themselves.
Once we had said our special prayers, we formed a line and walked around the outside of the church, holding hands to ‘give the church a hug’ to show love and care for it. We lifted our voices in song and walked around the church building singing ‘One more step along the world I go’.
Thankfully the sun joined us and made it a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone!”
On returning to school some of the children drew pictures to show what they had done.
