Confidently me: secure in our identity in Christ
God created each one of us as an individual, as a unique person. God wants us to fulfil our potential and not let anything or anyone hold us back from a life of fullness and fruitfulness. We all reflect something of God’s glory as we are all made in the image of God.
Being secure in our own identity is shown in supporting children to be confident and independent learners. We encourage everyone to be themselves, regardless of our differences. We have high expectations of each other because we expect all children to progress and attain to their full potential, as learners and as people. We therefore conduct ourselves in such a way that demonstrates these values throughout our time at school.
So you also are complete through your union with Christ.
– Colossians 2.10, NLT
But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other.
– 1John 1.7, NLT
Belonging together: in union with Christ, in fellowship with one another
We belong together because we belong to God. God created us to be in relationship with him and with each other. It’s like we are all part of the same family. At St Mary’s we have a strong sense of belonging which enables the children to be confident (and complete) in who they are as individuals. We worship together, reminding us of our sense of community is rooted in our shared union in Christ.
Belonging together is shown through taking a shared joy in celebration of individual achievements. We support one another in times of need, showing forgiveness when things go wrong.
So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other
– John 13.34, NLT
God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another
– 1Peter 4.10, NLT
Challenged to contribute: to communities near and far
We are confident in ourselves and secure in the community of St Mary’s. These are the foundations on which we challenge one another to serve our communities, following the example of Jesus who showed us his love by serving others. It is in the knowledge of God’s love for us, the realisation of gifts we have been given that we serve one another, it is an expression both of the love of God and the fellowship (Koinonia) with each other.
Challenged to contribute is shown through practical actions both within St Mary’s, where we live and in the wider world.