St David – 1st March

 

St David is the patron saint of Wales and a much-loved figure in the Christian Church. He was born in Wales in the 6th century and became a monk, teacher, and bishop. He founded many monasteries where people lived simply, prayed together, and worked hard to serve God and their communities.

St David was known for his wisdom, kindness, and simple way of living. He encouraged people to care for one another, live peacefully, and remain strong in their faith. One famous story tells how, while he was preaching to a large crowd, the ground beneath him rose up so everyone could hear him clearly.

His final words to his followers were: “Be joyful, keep the faith, and do the little things.” This message continues to inspire people today.

St David died on 1 March, which is now celebrated each year as St David’s Day. On this day, people in Wales celebrate their heritage by wearing daffodils or leeks, traditional national symbols.

Living Our School Values

St David’s life encourages us to live out our school values:

• Kindness – caring for others and showing compassion.

• Service – helping our community through small acts of love.

• Respect – living peacefully and valuing one another.

• Faith – trusting God and doing the right thing each day.

By following St David’s example and remembering to “do the little things,” we can help make our school a happy and caring place for everyone.

A Prayer to St David

Dear St David,
Help us to be joyful and kind each day.
Teach us to do the little things with love.
Guide us to help others and live in peace.
May we grow in faith and always try our best.
Amen.

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux- 1st October

 

Saint Thérèse of Lisieux (1873–1897), also known as “The Little Flower”, is one of the most loved saints in the Catholic Church. She was born in Alençon, France, and grew up in a faithful and loving family. From an early age, she showed a deep love for God and a desire to help others.

At just 15 years old, Thérèse entered the Carmelite convent in Lisieux. She lived a quiet life of prayer and service. Although she never did great public works, she believed that small acts of love and kindness done with great care were the most important way to serve God. She called this approach “The Little Way” — doing ordinary things with extraordinary love.

Thérèse experienced illness and suffering but faced it with courage and trust in God. She died at the age of 24, yet her spiritual writings, especially Story of a Soul, continue to inspire people around the world.

She was canonised in 1925 and later named a Doctor of the Church, a title given to saints whose teachings are especially important. Saint Thérèse is the patron saint of missionaries and is remembered for her simple but powerful message of love and trust in God.

Connection to Our School Values

Saint Thérèse reminds us that we do not need to do big things to make a difference. Her “Little Way” encourages us to:

• show kindness and respect to everyone

• try our best in all we do

• help others with a willing heart

• forgive and show compassion

• live with faith, hope and love each day

By following her example, we can make our school a caring and welcoming community.

A Prayer Inspired by Saint Thérèse

Dear God,
Help us to follow the example of Saint Thérèse.
Teach us to do small things with great love,
to be kind and patient with others,
and to trust in You each day.
May our actions bring peace and happiness
to our school and to everyone we meet.
Amen.