A visit from Bishop Michael

On Tuesday 16th November Bishop Michael Beasley, the Bishop of Hertford came to visit our school. We had asked Bishop Michael if he would like to come and bless our Forest School, which he was thrilled to do and we had a wonderful service outside together.

It was a really special time together where we were able to come with thanksgiving for our amazing Forest School area and to praise God for the beautiful nature that we love to explore. Children from each class were able to share some of their favourite things that they have done in Forest School:
“I loved learning about the Gruffalo story in forest school.” Georgia (Shackadell)
“I love forest school because it helps children to be in the great outdoors. My favourite time was when we got sticks and made a campfire and had some smores.  God made this world and I hope we can all be in it and look after it.” Ellie (Danes)

Some of our year 6 children shared some readings from the Bible about nature and God’s love for his creation. Here is some of what they said: 

The world around us is so beautiful, and when we look into the heavens at night, even more so.  The psalmist knew this and wrote,  

“The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork” (Psalm 19:1). 

  The beauty of the world is God’s idea, and the whole creation gives Him glory…even if we don’t realise it. 

Genesis Chapter 1

Then God said, “Hello land!” and there – splashing up through the oceans – came cliffs, mountains, sandy beaches. “You’re good,” God said. And they were. 

“Hello trees!” God said, “Hello grass and flowers!” And everything everywhere burst into life. He made buds bud; shoots shoot; flowers flower. “You’re good,” God said. And they were.

“Hello birds!” God said. And with a fluttering and flapping and chirping and singing, birds filled the skies. “Hello fish!” God said. And with a darting and dashing and wriggling and splashing, fish filled the seas! “you’re good,” God said. And they were.

Then God said, “Hello animals!” And everyone came out to play. The earth was filled with noisy noises – growling and gobbling and snapping and snorting and happy skerfuffling. “You’re good,” God said. And they were.

God saw all that he had made and he loved them. And they were lovely because he loved them. But God saved the best for last. From the beginning, God had a shining dream in his heart. He would make people to share his Forever Happiness. They would be his children, and the world would be their perfect home. 

(Taken from ‘The Jesus storybook Bible’)

Bishop Michael spoke to us about our lovely forest school and shared his thoughts on God’s wonderful creation. He blessed our Forest School after we all sang a song together. 

We ended our service with beautiful prayers lead by Demi and Nathan. We look forward to lots more learning opportunities in our Forest school!