Pilgrimage to St. Ninian’s Cave, Isle of Whithorn 🙏🌊

Yesterday, our Primary 7 pupils took part in a very special pilgrimage to St. Ninian’s Cave at the Isle of Whithorn, accompanied by Miss Lisi. They joined the other three Catholic schools in our Deanery, St. Teresa’s, St. Columba’s and St. Andrew’s, along with our much-loved clergy. It was a joyful day of prayer and connection. ⛪💬

The rain stayed away and we were able to celebrate a beautiful Mass right on the beach. Ry and Rubie read the bidding prayers respectfully and eloquently. We were very proud of them. 🕊️👏

After Mass, the children explored the cave and took time to reflect. They had their lunch on the beach, played together, chatted and enjoyed the peaceful surroundings. Everyone behaved beautifully and represented St. Joseph’s with pride. 🌱👣

A huge thank you to our brilliant parent drivers and helpers, Mr J Hilferty, Mrs T Hilferty and Mr A Westbrook, for their support throughout the day. 🙌 Thank you also to Mrs Cullen from St. Teresa’s for organising the event.

It was a lovely opportunity for all the Catholic P7 pupils in our area to come together in faith and friendship before their transition to secondary school. 💭🧑‍🎓

Oh, and yes, ice creams were enjoyed afterwards in Whithorn too! 🍦😄

UNCRC Rights of the Child covered:

Article 14 – Pupils had the opportunity to freely express and practise their faith during the pilgrimage and Mass.
Article 31 – Children were given the chance to relax, play, and take part in cultural and spiritual activities in a peaceful outdoor setting.

SDG Goals:

Goal 3 – Good Health and Well-being – The walk and time outdoors supported physical and emotional wellbeing.
Goal 4 – Quality Education – The day offered rich spiritual, social and personal learning in a real-life context.
Goal 16 – Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions – The pilgrimage fostered unity, peaceful reflection and respect among Catholic school communities.

SHANARRI Indicators:

Healthy – Outdoor activity and time for reflection supported pupils’ wellbeing.
Nurtured – Pupils were supported emotionally and spiritually by staff, clergy and peers.
Responsible – Pupils showed respectful behaviour and took responsibility for representing their school.
Included – All P7 pupils were welcomed and valued as part of the wider Catholic community.

Meta-skills developed:

Communicating – Pupils contributed to prayer, listened during Mass and engaged socially.
Collaborating – They participated in shared experiences with pupils from other schools.
Reflecting – Pupils had quiet time to think about their faith, values and transition to secondary.
Integrity – Respect and maturity were shown throughout the day, especially during prayer and reflection.

Strands of Faith:

Reign of God – Pupils explored how they live out their faith in the wider world through acts of prayer and community.
Hours of God – The day was set apart as sacred time, with prayer and spiritual focus throughout.
Son of God – Through Mass and reflection, pupils deepened their relationship with Jesus and his teachings.