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The Good Shepherd
Catholic Primary School
“I am the Good Shepherd; I know my own and my own know me”. John 10:14"
Branch 2 Prophecy & Promise
In Branch 2, Prophecy and Promise, Year 6 are exploring the significance of women in Salvation History, with a focus on Esther and Miriam. Pupils will study how women played a pivotal role as true protagonists in God’s plan of salvation. They will also examine the belief that Mary is the fulfilment of the Old Testament promises, making connections to Luke 1:26-56 and the stories of women in the Old Testament.
Pupils will compare Luke 1:26-56 with the account in Matthew 1:18-25, noting the different emphases in each Gospel. Mary’s 'Yes' to God’s plan made her the ‘Mother of God,’ and her response is beautifully expressed in the Magnificat.
Additionally, the Catholic Social Teaching principle pupils will focus on this term is the Preferential Option for the Poor, as we prepare for Advent.
Women in Salvation History
Year 6 have been delving into the lives of inspiring women in Salvation History, with a particular focus on Miriam and Esther. Through research and reflection, pupils explored the significant events in their lives and how both women demonstrated leadership, faith, and courage, placing their trust in God's plan even in challenging times.
Mary's Fulfilment of Old Testament Promises
Today, we stepped back into the times of the Old Testament and explored different Biblical Scriptures that prophesied Mary’s fulfilment in the New Testament. We discovered key passages such as Isaiah 7:14, Genesis 3:15, and 2 Samuel 7:12-14.
After locating and discussing these prophecies, we worked together to create a timeline of the significant events in Mary’s life where she fulfilled them. From the Annunciation and Visitation to the birth of Jesus and later, her presence at the Crucifixion and Pentecost, we traced how Mary’s life perfectly fit into God’s plan, as foretold by the prophets and recorded by Luke.
Mary, the Mother of God
We explored Mary’s role not only as the mother of Jesus but also as the Mother of God—a title affirmed by the early Church to emphasise both Jesus' divinity and humanity. We examined the key ideas presented at the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD, as well as the opposing views of Nestorius. Pupils engaged in a thoughtful debate on these perspectives before reflecting on Mary's Fiat and her significance in Salvation History.
The Magnificat
During Advent, Year 6 has been focusing on The Magnificat, the prayer of praise and gratitude spoken or sung by Mary during the Visitation. At this moment, Mary, who was expecting Jesus, rejoiced in God’s promise after receiving the angel’s message that she would be the mother of the Messiah.
The Magnificat reminds us of the kind of Saviour we are preparing for—one who brings justice, peace, and lifts up the lowly. This makes it a powerful prayer during Advent, a season of waiting and hope.
As we journey through Advent, we can live out the values of The Magnificat through Catholic Social Teaching, putting faith into action by caring for others and working for justice in our communities.
