This December, primary school children in the Diocese of Bath and Wells have been taking part in the ‘Journey to Bethlehem’. Hosted by churches in Quantock Deanery at Blackmore Farm near Cannington for 5 local schools; by West Somerset churches on Withycombe Farm for schools from Watchet, Dunster and Minehead and at a new location in Westbury-sub-Mendip as well as Staple Farm, where pupils from Thurlbear Primary School joined the journey.
Headteacher of Thurlbear, Steve Gilllan, shares this reflection
"Thurlbear CE VA Primary School started their journey through the season of advent by re-living the momentous days leading up to Jesus’ birth. Instead of tackling the high hills of lower Galilee, rocky, arid paths of the Judean peaks, and the cold nights around Bethlehem, they travelled by minibus to local Staple Farm! There, they were greeted by the Seven Sowers Benefice Team, who took them on a story-journey over 25 miles, tackling eager local officials taking their names for the census, tiptoeing past toll stations ready to snatch their money, and even listening patiently to the angry owner of a local establishment telling them there was no room left!
"Eventually, they came across a place that could hold a small family. A family of 3. And, as they entered the dimly lit room, they came upon a mother with her child, and they paused to listen to the words of Andy Levitt, Go Team Adviser, and join in a simple rendition of Away in a Manger.
"It was a brilliant experience, made all the more poignant by the fact that Mary and baby were actually a family from Thurlbear School. The children, from 4 to 7, embraced the journey with enthusiasm and respect, listening intently to the actors and asking thoughtful questions. Some moments can’t be scripted or easily explained, as was the case when I, as Head, used our usual farewell “May God go with You” and, with no choreography, almost every child replied: “And also with you Baby Jesus.” I can’t tell you why or how they decided upon that, but it encapsulated their personal feelings at that very moment – spontaneous and heartful.
"My huge thanks to the Benefice Team and to Andy for the enthusiasm, patience and warmth shown to our pupils and staff."
Anyone interested in exploring this where you are, we can offer support as well as a script and risk assessment. Do contact Rob Walrond or Andy Levett who would be happy to chat to you further.