“I am the Good Shepherd; I know my own and my own know me”. John 10:14"
By the end of this branch, pupils will be able to sequence the events from the Resurrection of Jesus to the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. They will understand that St. Luke wrote a gospel about the life of Jesus as well as the Acts of the Apostles, which details the early Church. Pupils will be able to retell the story of Saul’s conversion (Acts 9:1-19) and recognize that the description of the fruits of the Spirit is drawn from one of St. Paul’s letters (Galatians 5:22). They will understand that Christians believe the Holy Spirit opens their hearts to God, aiding them in prayer and encouraging habits of kindness toward others and themselves. Pupils will also name the fruits of the Holy Spirit and make simple connections between the lives of saints or holy people who exemplified these virtues.
Through creative and critical thinking, pupils will express their wonder about the story of the resurrected Jesus appearing to the apostles and imagine the apostles’ feelings at the Ascension (Acts 1:6-11) or reflect on Saul’s story. They will consider what they wonder about the fruits of the Holy Spirit and share their personal responses to symbols of the Holy Spirit (like wind, fire, and the dove) in art, linking these to previous branches, such as Taizé representations or Marlene Scholz’s “Blessed Trinity.” Additionally, they will listen to and ask questions about the lives of saints who exemplify peacebuilding in the world.
In response to this branch, pupils will reflect on the words "Come Holy Spirit," thinking about what it means to open one’s heart to God. They will also consider the significance of prayer, sharing stories from various religious communities as appropriate, and explore how embodying the fruits of the Holy Spirit could positively impact their lives and those around them, including their families and the broader community.