Last week, staff at St Clement’s CE Primary School, were formally commissioned into their roles for the new academic year during a special service held at St John-in-Bedwardine Church in Worcester.
The commissioning service, led by Curate Gilly Maxim and retired minister Stephen Buckley, brought together staff, trustees, parents and carers, and members of the wider school and church community in a service of reflection and celebration. The service affirmed the school's Christian foundation and the importance of each staff member's vocation in nurturing the lives of the children entrusted to their care.
During the service, each member of staff was individually blessed, anointed with oil and commissioned to serve with wisdom, compassion, and integrity in St Clement's Church of England Primary. As part of the liturgy, prayers were offered for the year ahead, asking for God’s guidance in teaching, learning, leadership, and pastoral care.
Each staff member was presented with a hand-crafted holding cross, lovingly made by members of the local Men’s Shed, a community group that supports men’s wellbeing and connection through woodworking and fellowship. These wooden crosses, smooth to the touch and shaped to rest comfortably in the hand, serve as a tactile reminder of God’s constant presence and the call to serve in love and humility.
Gilly commented:
“It was wonderful to hold a service recognising the vital role our Church Schools play, not only in academic formation, but in celebrating each pupil and member of staff as a unique child of God. Working in education is a joy and a privilege, but there are times when it can be extremely tiring and difficult. I pray that the holding crosses will remind staff that they are not only loved, valued and cared for by God, but also by their church community and the Men’s Shed community.”
