Moderation Portfolio Assessment TasksCome and See Autumn 2017Baptism/Confirmation AT1ii

Why we have common assessment tasksThe following assessment tasks have been compiled for the Autumn term 2017 for inclusion in school portfolios. These will enable

Schools to produce a moderation portfolio of assessed work using common tasks for Years One to Six. (An activity is included for Early Years to be used for Year 1 children in a YR/Y1 class, using the Early Years book. Early Years teachers may present examples of work for the school portfolio, but this will not be levelled or moderated.)

Consistency of levelling locally, at diocesan level, and nationally, across topics and strands The collation of exemplars showing secure levels within each strand

How the task is usedIt is important to remember that this task only serves as part of the evidence used to support the ‘best fit’ level of attainment achieved by the pupil in this term. The task should be given a straight level and not sub-levelled. Teachers should award a sub-level to each child at the end of each term taking into account all their work across that term.The timetable for assessment work for school portfolios is as follows. All strands will be covered on a three years cycle.

Year 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18

Autumn

Christian Living ThemeAdvent/Christmas

Loving̴�

Church ThemeDomestic Church

Family̴�

Sacramental ThemeBaptism/Confirmation

Belonging̴�

Spring

Church ThemeLocal Church

Community̴�

Sacramental ThemeEucharist

Relating̴�

Christian Living ThemeLent/Easter

Giving̴�

Summer

Sacramental ThemeInter-relating

Reconciliation̴�

Christian Living ThemePentecost

Serving̴�

Church ThemeUniversal Church

World̴�Using the assessment task cover sheetThe tasks this term are based on activities within the Reveal section of Come and See for the Baptism/Confirmation topic and have been adapted to meet the focus of AT1ii. Driver words are in bold to assist you with the planning and assessment of the task. In the grid the teacher should highlight the level achieved and add reasons for awarding the level in the commentary box. A range of levels is included for each task to assist with the teaching of mixed age classes and to aid teacher marking.The sheet serves as a cover sheet to the given task. It should be attached to and annotated for each piece of work in the portfolio. This sheet will be used at diocesan moderation meetings so please add your school name, badge or crest and the town to the top of each sheet.Please note that evidence of a pupil’s response can be scribed by an adult if the pupil is unable to record his/her response independently in written form. Please record the pupil’s own words.Additional notes

some of the tasks require further research, particularly within Levels 3 and 4. With this in mind, a set of Background Notes are attached to guide teachers and supplement their knowledge.

exemplification materials for the Baptism/Confirmation tasks were produced for the Moderation meetings, Summer 2015 and should be available in school

the sacramental preparation class have a separate assessment task on the diocesan website as they are studying the diocesan module on Reconciliation

Name of school and school badgeor crest to be inserted.

Early Years - Welcome – Autumn 2017Working within or towards Level 1 AT1ii

Name of pupil: Date:

ContextDuring the Reveal section in the topic ‘Welcome’, pupils learn about – Baptism: a welcome to God’s family.Within Focus Week 1 the pupils learn about ‘How we welcome people into our own or God’s family’ (pages 69/70).

ActivityAdapt the activity from Adult Directed Group Activity – Focus Week 1 (page 70) Provide pupils with a role play area with suitable props to re-enact the story of Matthew’s baptism.Take photographs and/or film to provide evidence of the formal assessment.The pupils, with adult directed support, will begin to recognise some elements of how Christians welcome people into God’s family (towards Level 1)The pupils will recognise some elements of how Christians celebrate parts of the Baptism (within Level 1)

Learning Outcomes

To begin to recognise some religious signs and symbols and/or words and phrases related to baptism (towards Level 1)

To recognise some religious signs and symbols and/or words and phrases related to baptism (within Level 1)

Level Achieved Commentary

Pupils are beginning to recognise some religious signs and symbols and/or words and phrases related to baptism towards Level 1 AT1ii

Pupils are able to recognise some religious signs and symbols and/or words and phrases related to baptism within Level 1 AT1ii

This assessment task can be used for Year 1 children in a YR/Y1 class, using the Early Years book.

Name of school and school badgeor crest to be inserted.

Year 1 – Belonging – Autumn 2017Level 1/2 AT1ii

Name of pupil: Date:

ContextDuring the Reveal section in the topic ‘Belonging’, pupils learn about – Baptism is an invitation to belong to God’s family.Within Learning Focus 2 pupils will learn about – A family taking their child to be baptised.

ActivityAdapt Learning Focus 2, page 70. Provide artefacts and use Church’s Story 2 (pages 32-37) to prompt discussion and ideas. Invite the pupils to illustrate and label what happens at a Baptism on a set of cards (or storyboard) (Level 1)Pupils describe what is happening on each of their cards (or storyboard) (This may be scribed by teacher or TA – refer to Key Words, p.68) (Level 2)

Learning Outcomes

To recognise some religious actions and to use some religious words and phrases related to a Baptism (Level 1)

To use some religious words and phrases to describe actions related to a Baptism (Level 2)

Level Achieved Commentary

Pupil has recognised some key words, phrases and actions (Sign of the Cross, welcome, belonging, Baptism, godparents, sign, sacrament)Level 1 AT1ii

Pupil has used religious words and phrases to describe what is happening – reference to what the priest and people are saying and doing, e.g. anointing the baby with a special oil called ‘chrism’ Level 2 AT1ii

Name of school and school badgeor crest to be inserted.

Year 2 – Signs and symbols – Autumn 2017Level 1/2/3 AT1ii

Name of pupil: Date:

ContextDuring the Reveal section in the topic ‘Signs and symbols’, pupils learn about – Signs and symbols used in Baptism.Within Learning Focus 2-6 the pupils learn about the actions and symbols used in the Sacrament of Baptism. (Background Notes suggest this task can be carried out cumulatively over the different Learning Foci 2-6 or at the end of Reveal.)ActivityAdapt Learning Focus 3, page 72, Activity 2.Using Church’s Story 2, Come and See video and related photographs from the images file, pupils make a storyboard of the parts of the Baptism. Write a sentence under each picture to describe what is happening (Level 2)Pupils sequence in pictures the parts of the baptism recognising some religious actions and using some religious words and phrases (Level 1)Pupils give reasons for the actions and symbols used in the Baptism (Level 3)Learning Outcomes

To recognise some religious actions and use some religious words and phrases related to Baptism (Level 1)

To use some religious words and phrases to describe some of the actions and symbols related to Baptism (Level 2)

Use a developing religious vocabulary to give reasons for the religious actions and symbols used within the celebration of Baptism (Level 3)

Level Achieved(highlight one)

Commentary

Pupil has been able to sequence in pictures the parts of the Baptism and recognise and use some of the words and phrases related to the celebration of Baptism Level 1 AT1ii

Pupil has sequenced the parts of the Baptism and has described what is happeningLevel 2 AT1ii

Pupil has used a developing religious vocabulary to give reasons for the actions and symbols Level 3 AT1ii(See Background Notes, as more depth and understanding is required for Level 3)

Name of school and school badgeor crest to be inserted.

Year 3 – Promises– Autumn 2017Level 1/2/3 AT1ii

Name of pupil: Date:

ContextDuring the Reveal section in the topic ‘Promises’, pupils learn about – The meaning of the promises made at Baptism.Within Learning Focus 2-6 the pupils learn about the actions and symbols used in the Sacrament of Baptism. (Background Notes suggest this task can be carried out cumulatively over the different Learning Foci 2-6 or at the end of Reveal.)ActivityAdapt Learning Focus 2, page 71, Activity 4 and use the Background Notes.Using Church’s Story 3 (pp.40-43), the Background Notes, as well as other resources and prior learning, ask the pupils to say what signs and symbols are used in Baptism. Record in an appropriate way e.g. storyboard, zigzag book, leaflet, Power Point using religious words and phrases to describe the actions and symbols within (Level 2)Pupils label the signs and symbols used in Baptism, recognising some religious actions and symbols, using some religious words and phrases (Level 1)Using Church’s Story 3 (pp.40-43), the Background Notes, as well as other resources and prior learning, ask the pupils to say what signs and symbols are used in Baptism and why they are used. Record in an appropriate way e.g. storyboard, zigzag book, leaflet, Power Point, giving reasons for the actions and symbols involved (Level 3)Learning Outcomes

To use some religious words and phrases to recognise some of the actions and symbols used within Baptism (Level 1)

To use religious words and phrases to describe some of the actions and symbols used within Baptism (Level 2)

To use religious words and phrases to give reasons for the actions and symbols related to and used within Baptism (Level 3)

Level Achieved(highlight one)

Commentary

Pupil has used some religious words and phrases to recognise the signs and symbols used in Baptism Level 1 AT1ii

Pupil has used religious words and phrases to describe some of the actions and symbols within Baptism Level 2 AT1ii

Pupil has given reasons for the actions and symbols involved within Baptism Level 3 AT1ii

Name of school and school badgeor crest to be inserted.

Year 4 – Called– Autumn 2017Level 2/3 AT1ii

Name of pupil: Date:

ContextDuring the Reveal section in the topic ‘Calling the pupils learn about –Confirmation: a call to witness.Within Learning Focus 3 the pupils learn about – The Sacrament of Confirmation.

ActivityAdapt Learning Focus 3, page 74, activity 3 and use the Background Notes.After reading Church’s Story 3 page 48 and watching the video clip on-line, invite the pupils to design and prepare a booklet describing what happens at Confirmation.Pupils use a developing religious vocabulary to give reasons for the actions and symbols used during Confirmation (Level 3)Pupils use religious words and phrases to describe the actions and symbols used during Confirmation (Level 2)

Learning Outcomes To use religious words and phrases to describe religious actions and symbols related to

Confirmation (Level 2) To use a developing religious vocabulary to give reasons for some actions and symbols

related to Confirmation (Level 3)

Level Achieved(highlight one)

Commentary

Pupil has used religious words and phrases to describe religious actions and symbols related to Confirmation Level 2 AT1ii

Pupils has used a developing religious vocabulary to give reasons for the actions and symbols used during the Confirmation Level 3 AT1ii

Name of school and school badgeor crest to be inserted.

Year 5 – Life Choices – Autumn 2017Level 2/3/4 AT1ii

Name of pupil: Date:

ContextDuring the Reveal section in the topic ‘Life Choices’, pupils learn about – The call to life and love within the community; marriage.Within Learning Focus 4 the pupils learn about – The blessing of the rings.

ActivityAdapt Learning Focus 4, page 73, Activity 1 and use Background Notes and Come and See

website.Pupils design a booklet about the Sacrament of Marriage giving reasons for the actions and symbols used during the celebration (Level 3)Pupils design a booklet about the Sacrament of Marriage outlining what is happening and why, linking it to other religious sources such as appropriate scripture readings and hymns, to show an understanding of the sacrament (Level 4)Pupils make a booklet which describes what happens during the Sacrament of Marriage (Level 2)

Learning Objectives To describe some religious actions and symbols which take place during the Sacrament of

Marriage (Level 2) To give reasons for the actions and symbols used during the Sacrament of Marriage (Level 3) To use religious terms to show an understanding of the Sacrament of Marriage (Level 4)

Level Achieved(highlight one)

Commentary

Pupil has described some religious actions and symbols that take place during the Sacrament of Marriage Level 2 AT1ii

Pupil can give reasons for the actions and symbols used during the Sacrament of Marriage Level 3 AT1ii

Pupil can use religious terms to show an understanding of the Sacrament of Marriage Level 4 AT1ii

Name of school and school badgeor crest to be inserted.

Year 6 – Vocation & Commitment – Autumn 2017Level 4 AT1ii

Name of pupil: Date:

ContextDuring the Reveal section in the topic ‘Vocation & Commitment’’ pupils learn about - The vocation to the priesthood and religious life.Within Learning Focus 3, the pupils’ learn about – The Sacrament of Ordination.ActivityAdapt Learning Focus 3, Activity 2 (page 75) and use the Background Notes.Provide pupils with a set of pictures of the different stages in the ordination. (Refer to Church’s Story 3 pages 80-83 and Background Notes).Pupils write a series of paragraphs for each picture outlining what is happening and why, make links to other religious sources such as scripture, hymns, prayers etc., to show an understanding of the sacrament (Level 4)Pupils give reasons for the words and actions used within each picture (Level 3)Using words and pictures pupils describe what is happening in each picture (Level 2)Learning Outcomes

To use religious words and phrases to describe what happens during the ordination (Level 2)

To use religious words and phrases to give reasons for the religious actions and symbols used during the ordination (Level 3)

To show an understanding of the sacrament of ordination, giving reasons for the actions and symbols used and making links to scripture, hymns, prayers etc. and what Catholics believe (Level 4)

Level Achieved(highlight one)

Commentary

Pupil can use religious words and phrases to describe what happens at an ordination Level 2 AT1ii

Pupil can use religious words and phrases to give reasons for the religious actions and symbols used in an ordination Level 3 AT1ii

Pupil can use religious terms to show an understanding of the various elements, symbols, actions and words involved within ordination, making links to scripture, hymns, prayers etc and what Catholics believe Level 4 AT1ii

BACKGROUND NOTES FOR TEACHERS ON THE

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or crest to be inserted.

BAPTISM/CONFIRMATION THEMEThese notes are written in order to support teachers’ own knowledge and understanding and to

help with the assessment task.

The Themes ‘Come and See’ is developed through three themes which are gradually explored each time at greater depths. They are:

Community of faith - Church Celebration in ritual - Sacraments Way of life - Christian Living

The assessment tasks for Autumn 2017 are linked to the Sacramental theme.

What are Sacraments? - a reminder

A sacrament is something that uses signs – usually a combination of words and actions. By interpreting these signs correctly we can find out what the Sacrament is doing for those who receive it. The signs are not just words and actions that have a message for those who are celebrating it; they give those who receive them a gift. They actually do what they say they are doing. They are effective. This gift (which Catholics call ‘grace’), is given by Jesus whom they meet in the Sacrament, to deepen and develop their relationship with him. Through the sacraments God helps Catholics grow in friendship with him. The Catholic Church has declared that there are 7 sacraments which celebrate special events in the lives of Catholics: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Marriage and Holy orders.

Sacramental Themes in ‘Come and See’

In ‘Come and See’ a Sacramental theme is studied each term.

Autumn – Belonging ~ born into Christ’s life. Pupils study Baptism in EYFS, at Key Stage 1 and in Year 3. In years 4-6 pupils will learn about the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Sacrament of Marriage and the Sacrament of Ordination.

Spring – Relating ~ God’s love in our lives ~ Eucharist. In the Spring term after learning about the local Church community, the Sacrament of the Eucharist is explored. This is the Sacrament of communion with Christ and the Church. This sacrament is at the heart of ‘Come and See’ since it is at the heart of Christ nourishing his people.

Summer – inter-relating ~ service to the community ~ Reconciliation. Pupils study the Sacrament of Reconciliation. At the end of Key Stage 2 children will learn about the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick.

There are background notes for teachers on the sacraments on the Come and See website http://www.comeandseere.co.uk/main-resources/teachers-resources/the-sacraments and videos of Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Marriage and Ordinations.

BAPTISM – EYFS TO YEAR 3

Baptism is an invitation to join the Church family. When a baby or younger child is baptised, the parents accept the invitation on behalf of their child. Older children and adults accept the invitation themselves. Often adults are baptised at Easter. Baptism is a special time for the person who is to be baptised, for their family and friends and the parish community.Sometimes the sacrament of Baptism is celebrated when the parish family is gathered together for Mass. At other times family and friends come together in church at another time. (Church’s Story 3)

OUTLINEHere is an outline of the rite of Baptism for infants:

INTRODUCTORY RITESThe Reception and signing with the sign of the cross.

LITURGY OF THE WORDScripture Reading Responsorial PsalmGospelHomilyPrayer of the faithful

LITURGY OF BAPTISMExorcismAnointing with the oil of catechumensBlessing of or thanksgiving over the baptismal waterBaptismal PromisesBaptismAnointing with chrismPresentation of the lighted candlePresentation of the white garment(The Ephphatha Rite – this is optional. It is the opening of the ears to hear the Word of God and the mouth, to proclaim it))

All the information you need to teach this topic in EYFS through to Year 3 can be found in Church’s Story 3. Even if you teach EYFS/Year1 this text will be useful for your own subject knowledge.

A very good description (level 2) of the Rite of Baptism can be found in God’s Story 3 pp 38-43. The text also gives reasons for the signs and symbols used in the Sacrament. (Level 3) Although the children will be using Church’s Story 1 and 2, it is essential that you, as the teacher, use the text in Church’s Story 3 for your input when teaching about the sacrament in Years 2/3.

EYFS (WELCOME) and YEAR 1 (BELONGING)

For children in EYFS and Year 1 the text in Church’s Story 2 pp32-37 should be sufficient. There is also a useful picture on p10 of Church’s Story 1.

YEAR 2 (SIGNS AND SYMBOLS) and YEAR 3 (PROMISES)

Within Learning Foci 2-6 in both Year 2 and Year 3 the pupils progressively learn about the actions and symbols used in the Sacrament of Baptism. The assessment task is to either describe (level 2) or give reasons (Level 3) for the signs and symbols used in Baptism. This activity is not a test. The focus is on how well we can moderate. The task, therefore, can either be approached cumulatively over the different Learning Foci 2-6, or as a summative piece of work at the end of Reveal.

YEAR 4 – CALLED (CONFIRMATION)

In Year 4 children are either asked to describe religious actions and symbols related to Confirmation (Level 2) or to use religious words and phrases to give reasons for some actions and symbols related to Confirmation (Level 3).

On the whole the text used in Church’s Story 3 0n pp44-49 describes what happens during the Sacrament, (Level 2) although the text in LF3 gives more explanation of certain elements of the celebration. The text below and the outline of the Sacrament will give you the information you need to teach about the sacrament in such a way that will enable the children to give reasons for some actions and symbols related to Confirmation (Level 3).The text is written to give the teacher a clear understanding of the Sacrament of Confirmation. When teaching pupils working at Level 3 the language used must be adapted and appropriate elements selected to suit the needs and abilities of the pupils.

Confirmation strengthens or ‘confirms’ the baptised person’s relationship with God andthe Church. In England and Wales, many people are baptised when they are babies and confirmed when they are older. It is standard practice for the Rite of Confirmation to be celebrated within a parish Mass, in which case it comes after the Liturgy of the Word and before the Liturgy of the Eucharist . This expresses the connection of the Sacrament with full initiation (or belonging) into the Catholic Christian community which reaches its culmination in the receiving of Holy Communion. Participation in the Eucharist completes the candidate’s Catholic Christian initiation. It is usually a Bishop who is one of the successors of the Apostles who confirms.

Any person who chooses to be confirmed is promising to live as a Christian and follow the teaching of Jesus. They do this with the help of the Holy Spirit whom Jesus promised to send and who they receive through the sacrament. Sometimes people choose a Confirmation name, most often the name of a saint whose example of living God’s way they respect.

The SponsorBefore exploring the celebration it is worth mentioning the role of the sponsor. Normally every candidate for confirmation should have a sponsor, who has a symbolic role during the celebration. The sponsor represents the parish community and supports the person being confirmed. It is the sponsor who brings the candidate to receive the sacrament, and who presents him/her to the Bishop for anointing. Ideally the sponsor should be the same person who was godparent at baptism. This would express the essential relationship between baptism and confirmation. OUTLINEGATHERINGThose to be confirmed, along with their family, friends, sponsors and the parish family gather for a Mass of celebration. The gathering hymn is often a prayer to the Holy Spirit.The Bishop welcomes everyone. He wears a mitre and carries a crozier, a long staff curved at the top like a shepherd’s crook. This symbolises his role of caring for all the people in his diocese as a good shepherd cares for the whole flock. (Church’s Story 3)

THE LITURGY OF THE WORDReading from the Old TestamentResponsorial PsalmReading from the New Testament GospelHomily

The liturgy of the Word should have heightened importance in the celebration of Confirmation. In the Sacrament the candidates are publically accepting the command to be witnesses of Christ and to try to become more ‘Christ-like’ in their lives. It is in the Word, especially the Gospels, that they will discover God’s will and learn more about Christ to whom they are to give witness. The readings from Scripture are chosen to remind all those present of the gifts the Holy Spirit brings to God’s Church. They may speak of wisdom, open-mindedness, discipleship, strength, hope and the role of the Holy Spirit to help Christians remember all that Jesus taught.

PRESENTATION OF THE CANDIDATESAfter the Gospel, the candidates are presented to the Bishop because he is the head of the Local Church and the gathered community. Each candidate stands when his or her name is called.

HOMILYWe have a homily so that the celebrant can explain the readings: within this celebration, it should also lead the candidates and the whole assembly to a deeper understanding of the meaning of confirmation. The Bishop, in his homily, usually addresses the candidates directly on this important day in their lives. For the candidates, the homily should also be a reminder of the implications of being confirmed:

To be witnesses before the whole world to Christ’s suffering, death and resurrection.

To live a life that reflects the goodness of Christ.

To use the gifts that the Spirit gives them for building up Christ’s body, the Church, in unity and love.

He may remind them of the day of Pentecost when the apostles received the Holy Spirit as Jesus had promised.

RENEWAL OF BAPTISMAL PROMISESAfter the homily all who have been baptised renew the promises made at baptism. This expresses the link between baptism and confirmation. If those being confirmed were baptised as children, these promises will have been made on their behalf by their sponsors. Now they make a public proclamation of fully accepting their baptism and all that it signifies: accepting the love of God shown in baptism; accepting the implications of following Christ, and showing the same openness as he himself did to the Spirit in their lives.

LAYING ON OF HANDSThe candidates are called forward together. The Bishop, often joined by the priests present, extends his hands over them. He prays that the Holy Spirit will strengthen them with special gifts. This is a very ancient, symbolic gesture going back into the Old Testament times. Its original meaning was one of empowerment and in the New Testament it acquired a special significance of empowerment by the Spirit.

The gifts of the Spirit are those promised by the prophet Isaiah (Isaiah: 11:2-3) which is one of the suggested readings for the Liturgy of the Word. These promised gifts were given to Christ, given to the Church at Pentecost and are now given to the candidates through the sacrament: Wisdom, Understanding, Right Judgement (Counsel), Courage (Fortitude), Knowledge, Reverence (Piety), Awe and Wonder (Fear of the Lord).

ANOINTING WITH CHRISMThen the candidates are presented individually to the Bishop by the parish priest and their sponsor.The priest and their sponsors represent the community which has introduced the candidate into the life of faith of the Church. Each candidate goes to the Bishop. The sponsor places his or her right hand on the candidate’s shoulder and gives the candidate’s newly chosen name to the Bishop. The Bishop dips his right thumb in the chrism and makes the sign of the cross on the candidate’s forehead saying,“Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.”He or she responds,“Amen.”The Oil of Chrism, a mixture of oil and balsam is used to anoint Christians at Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders (becoming a priest, deacon or Bishop). It is a sign of being called and marked out for God’s Service. A seal is a symbol of a person’s authority and power. (Seals authenticate documents such as wills, Acts of Parliament, treaties etc. Another way to translate ‘sealing’ would be ‘branding’: in other words marking ownership.) The cross is a sign of a follower of Jesus.This part of the rite is completed with the exchange of the sign of peace

The Bishop says, “Peace be with you” and touches the candidate on the cheek. The newly confirmed reply, “And with your Spirit.” Confirmation can be seen as a ‘strengthening a Christian to be a ‘soldier’ of Christ. The gesture of the tap on the cheek can be seen as meaning that the confirmed should be prepared to suffer for the sake of Christ and his gospel.

GENERAL INTERCESSIONS OR PRAYER OF THE FAITHFULWhen the anointing of all the candidates is completed, all stand and the Bishop invites the assembly to pray for those who have been confirmed, their parents, godparents and sponsors, for the Church throughout the world and for the entire human family.

LITURGY OF THE EUCHARISTThe Mass continues in its usual pattern. As previously stated, full Christian initiation (or belonging) reaches its culmination in the communion of the body and blood of Christ. Participation in the Eucharist completes the candidate’s Christian initiation.

YEAR 5 – LIFE CHOICES (MARRIAGE)

The text in LF3 and LF4 together with the text in Church’s Story 3 on marriage (p74-77) will enable you to teach about the sacrament in such a way that the children should be able to describe some religious actions and symbols which take place during the Sacrament of Marriage. (Level 2)

In order for the children to give reasons for the actions and symbols used during the Sacrament of Marriage (Level 3) or to use religious terms to show an understanding of the Sacrament of Marriage (Level 4) you will also need to include (at an appropriate level) some of the information below. To ‘show understanding’ or ‘to give personal meaning or insight’ into the sacrament, the children need to give multiple and varied reasons for the signs and symbols used and also, more importantly, understand why we have marriage and what it is for.

It is important at the outset to remember (and to make very clear to the children) that what you are teaching about in Year 5 is about the Sacrament of Marriage. This is very different from any legal definition of marriage. Children may say that their parents may have been married in a registry office (or in a hotel or on a beach) or in fact that one parent may have married someone of the same sex. The Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013 (the Act) allows same sex couples to marry in accordance with legal requirements in England and Wales. According to the law all of the above are marriages in the legal sense of the word. If the children bring this up then of course we accept the facts of how the law defines marriage. However, to reiterate, what this topic is teaching about is how Catholics celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage. A Catholic school has the right and duty to teach about marriage according to Catholic teaching in an appropriate, reasonable, professional and sensitive way.

The following notes are written to give the teacher a clear understanding of the Sacrament of Marriage. When teaching pupils working at Level 4 the language used must be adapted and appropriate elements selected to suit the needs and abilities of the pupils.

Why we have the Sacrament of Marriage: what it is for?Celebrating commitment(The first 2 paragraphs below are repeated in the notes for Year 6 as they form a foundation to help understand both Marriage and Holy Orders)

Through the Sacrament of Baptism, all Christians are called to share in the mission of Jesus. Jesus’ mission was to make known God’s love for everyone and show people that living in God’s way brings love, justice and peace for the entire world. There are many different ways of carrying out this mission. God calls each of us to a particular vocation in life. The word‘vocation’ means ‘calling’ – that is responding to the call of Jesus and involves commitment.

The sacraments of Marriage and Holy Orders are sacraments that celebrate a way of life people feel called to in order to carry out the mission they were given in baptism. Each sacrament deepens the relationship with God that began in baptism. These sacraments consecrate, that is, make holy, the love and self-giving of the wife and husband and the ordained priest so that they become signs of Christian love and self-giving for the whole Church.

For some people the living out of the commitment to love and service will be through marriage. In baptism the bride and groom were consecrated (set apart) as children of God and called to dedicate their lives to him: their marriage is their way of living out that commitment.

The heart of every wedding ceremony is the exchange of vows. In the sacrament of marriage, the exchange of vows between the couple, a man and a woman, at least one of whom is baptised, is surrounded by symbolic words, symbols and ceremonies, which together make up what is called the Rite of Marriage. Sacraments make Christ present among us. Christ is already present in the love which the couple share. In celebrating the sacrament, Christ’s presence is publically declared before the community and the priest, the Church’s minister (see page 1 for more on what a sacrament is and below for an outline of the Rite).

Couples who choose to get married by celebrating the Sacrament of Marriage come seeking God’s blessing on their love for one another, and to pray that God will be with them on their journey through life. In exchanging their vows the couple give to each other a sacrament, which is a promise, a challenge and a celebration. The sacrament is:

a promise that the loving power of God will strengthen and support the couple in their life together, so that, through their love of each other they will find peace, joy and fulfilment. Marriage is given by God as a means for a man and woman to find happiness together;

a challenge to the couple to grow as people of love so that their love will be a sign to the world of God’s love for God’s people. The Church, in fact is often called the ‘bride of Christ’ as the love of a married couple is the image of the love God offers God’s people. This is the calling or the vocation of married people and it is by responding to God’s call to love that they fulfil their vocation;

a celebration that all love comes from God and that to live in love is to share in the life of God. Love is always there to be shared so marriage is also given by God so that a couple may be open to the possibility of sharing their love with children.

OUTLINEAnother name for the sacrament is Matrimony. The celebration is called a wedding. Sometimes the celebration takes place during a Mass and at other times it is a separate liturgy. Before a couple get married they have to take part in a marriage preparation course which usually takes place in the parish or Deanery. The purpose of this is to make sure the couple really understand what they are undertaking as this is a lifelong commitment of service.

CELEBRATION OF THE SACRAMENT WITHIN MASS

The family and friends of the bride and groom gather in church. When the bride arrives everyone stands to welcome her and joyful music is played. When the bride reaches the foot of the altar steps she is joined by the groom and they take their places. An opening hymn about love, such as, ‘Let there be love shared among us’ or ‘Bind us together, Lord’ might be sung.

INTRODUCTORY RITESThe usual introductory rites are celebrated, that is the penitential rite and the Gloria. For both the Rite of Marriage with and the Rite without Mass there is an opening prayer called a ‘collect’ said by the priest. This collects or gathers the prayers of all present into the prayer of the Church. The prayer asks that the lives of the couple may give witness to the reality of their love for each other.

THE LITURGY OF THE WORDThe couple can choose from a rich selection of readings from Scripture on the theme of love and marriage. As in every Eucharist the Liturgy of the Word includes:Reading from the Old TestamentResponsorial PsalmReading from the New TestamentGospelHomily

Couples often choose readings such as:Song of Songs 2:8-10, 14, 16; 8:6-7 with Psalm 127 ‘Love as strong as death’Roman 8:31-35, 37-39 ‘Nothing can come between us and the love of Christ’John 2:1-11 ‘The wedding feast at Cana’(Pupils could suggest their own readings and give reasons for their choices. On the National Gallery website you can also find information on The Marriage at Cana about 1655-60, by Mattia Preti).

An integral part of the Liturgy of the Word is the homily, which is the sermon based on the readings that have been proclaimed, and which invites everyone present – but especially the bride and groom – to reflect on the religious significance of marriage.

THE RITE OF MARRIAGEThe structure of the ceremony is:An introductionQuestionsThe expression of consentThe exchange of vowsThe exchange of rings

The introduction expresses briefly the key ideas already explored in the paragraphs about why we have a marriage and what it’s for.

The questionsThe bride and groom respond individually to 3 questions which determine whether or not the bride and groom fulfil the necessary conditions without which the marriage cannot take place. Each must be able to answer ‘Yes’ honestly to all 3 questions.

Are you ready, freely and without reservation to give yourselves to each other in marriage?Marriage is the total unconditional mutual self-giving between two partners. Each declares his or her free choice of the other, publically.

Are you ready to love and honour each other as man and wife for the rest of your life?Love in marriage is meant to be exclusive. That is not to say that there is no room for the love of others in their lives! Rather that the love that they give to others may not be the same kind of love as they share as man and wife.

Are you ready to accept children lovingly from God and bring them up according to the law of Christ and his Church?The love which is shared in marriage is not just for the couple. True love always wants to share. Catholics believe that the willingness and openness to the possibility of having children and bringing new life into the world is an essential part of marriage.

Civil law in England and Wales requires that the couple complement their answers to these three questions by a public, solemn declaration that they are free to marry.

The consentEach partner declares their full and free consent, firstly to accept their partner in marriage, and secondly in a marriage they recognise as a sacrament.

The exchange of vowsIn all of the other sacraments it is the minister who is usually a priest (or deacon or Bishop) who confers the sacrament, but in marriage it is the couple who give the sacrament to each other through the exchange of vows.

As they prepare to exchange vows, the bride and groom join their right hands. In some places there is the tradition of the bride’s father placing his daughter’s hand in that of the groom as a symbol of entrusting her to him. The bridegroom makes his vows first then the couple release their hands. The bride then takes the groom’s right hand in hers as she makes her vows.The bride and groom each say:‘I call upon these persons here present, to witness that I (name) do take thee, (name) to be my lawful wedded (wife/ husband), to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part.This exchange of vows is pretty clear in stating how each partner is meant to live (AT1iii).

The exchange of rings is a sign of love and faithfulness. The endless circle of the wedding ring is usually interpreted to symbolise completeness and un-brokenness and therefore a suitable symbol of the faithful commitment that marriage is meant to be. This is a reflection of God’s unconditional love and faithfulness the children learned about in the last topic and to which they can make links. Before the rings are exchanged, they are blessed, as a mark of respect and a reminder that they stand for a love which is holy. The bride and groom say 'Take this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit’.

THE PRAYER OF THE FAITHFULDuring the Prayer of the Faithful it is appropriate that the candidates should be prayed for. The intentions for prayer concern the needs of the Church and of the world, which the Church exists to serve.

SIGNING THE REGISTERThe newly married couple sign a special register of marriages and two witnesses sign with them. This action is done with the Registrar of Marriages. This is an official legal document.

THE LITURGY OF THE EUCHARISTWhen Nuptial Mass is celebrated, the ceremony continues with the Liturgy of the Eucharist, which is celebrated in the usual way until just after the Lord's Prayer, when the Nuptial Blessing is pronounced.

THE NUPTIAL BLESSINGWhether the marriage is celebrated within Mass or outside, the Lord's Prayer always has its place. The placing of the Nuptial Blessing here is deliberate, symbolising by this sacrament the couple will (usually) come to share in this parenthood of God when they themselves become parents. The priest then prays that the couple's marriage may be blessed, that the couple will be faithful to each other, be an example of Christian life. The priest asks that they will be blessed with children and be good parents and, that at the end of their lives they will have everlasting life in Heaven with all the saints. The blessing ends with these words:Father, keep them always true to your commandments. Keep them faithful in marriage and let them be examples of Christian life. Give them the strength which comes from the Gospel so that they may be witnesses of Christ to others. Bless them with children and help them to be good parents. May they live to see their children’s children. And after a happy old age, grant them fullness of life with the Saints in the kingdom of heaven. We ask this through Christ our Lord.Everyone responds, “Amen.”(Links could be made here to John 13 and the command to love another or the scripture covered in the topic ‘Mission’ last year about being witnesses and spreading the good news which the couple now do through marriage).

THE COMMUNION RITEThe Communion Rite takes place as usual.

THE CONCLUDING RITEThere is another blessing which concludes the Marriage Rite. The husband and wife leave the church together to joyful music, followed by their family and friends.

YEAR 6 – VOCATION AND COMMITMENT (HOLY ORDERS)

The text in LF2 and LF3 together with the text in Church’s Story 3 on ordination (p78-83) will enable you to teach about the sacrament in such a way that the children should be able to describe some religious actions and symbols which take place during the Sacrament of Holy Orders. (Level 2)

In order for the children to give reasons for the actions and symbols used during the Sacrament of Holy Orders (Level 3) or to use religious terms to show an understanding of the Sacrament of Holy Orders (Level 4) you will also need to include (at an appropriate level) some of the information below. To ‘show understanding’ or ‘to give personal meaning or insight’ into the sacrament, the children need to give multiple and varied reasons for the signs and symbols used and also, more importantly, understand why we have ordination and what it is for.

By simply commentating on the pictures in Church’s Story 3 the children may not be able to put enough information into the work to bring it up to level 4. The commentary could be prefaced by some introductory paragraphs giving some of the information below about why we have the Sacrament of Holy Orders and what it’s for.

The following notes are written to give the teacher a clear understanding of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. When teaching pupils working at Level 4 the language used must be adapted and appropriate elements selected to suit the needs and abilities of the pupils.

Why we have the Sacrament of Holy Orders: what it is for? Celebrating commitment (the next two paragraphs also appear in the Marriage notes) Through the Sacrament of Baptism, all Christians are called to share in the mission of Jesus. Jesus’ mission was to make known God’s love for everyone and show people that living in God’s way brings love, justice and peace for the entire world. There are many different ways of carrying out this mission. God calls each of us to a particular vocation in life. The word ‘vocation’ means ‘calling’ - that is responding to the call of Jesus - and involves commitment.

The sacraments of Marriage and Holy Orders are sacraments that celebrate a way of life people feel called to in order to carry out the mission they were given in baptism. Each sacrament deepens the relationship with God that began in baptism. These sacraments consecrate, that is, make holy, the love and self-giving of the wife and husband and the ordained priest so that they become signs of Christian love and self-giving for the whole Church.

For some people the living out of the commitment to love and service will be through priesthood. Ordination is the sacrament which celebrates the gift of priesthood. A priest chooses to give his life for the service of others in the Church. This is his response to God’s call given to him in baptism to live a life filled with love for God’s people. The apostles were called by Jesus to follow him and, in response; they left everything to be with him. This is true of every Christian and is especially true of the call to be a priest.

Year 6 pupils will already have studied baptism. They may remember this sacrament consecrates (makes holy and set apart) those who receive it so that they become 'a priestly people'. We call this the ‘common priesthood’. All who are baptised share in Christ's life, and are called, each in their own way to be priests in and for the world. All baptised Christians share in the priesthood of Christ.

Very simply, a priest is one who is set aside to serve the Church. After the priesthood of Christ and the common priesthood of all the baptised we find that there are various ‘levels’ or orders’ of service, - that is, ways of serving within the Church so that the Church can fulfil her mission.

Another name for ordination is the Sacrament of Holy Orders. "Ordination" comes from the Latin word ordinatio, which means to incorporate someone into an order. In the Sacrament of Holy Orders, a man is incorporated into the priesthood of Christ, at one of three levels or orders: either as a deacon, priest or Bishop.

It is clear from the New Testament that the Apostles understood that the responsibilities that Jesus entrusted to them, they in turn had to hand on to others, so that Christ’s priestly work could be continued. The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the continuation of Christ's priesthood, which He gave to His Apostles.

This topic focuses on ordination to the priesthood.

OUTLINE

The Sacrament of Holy Orders is always celebrated within Mass. Since the candidates are called from among the people of God to serve them, the sacrament should be celebrated on a day, at a time and in a place when a large number of people can be present. Ideally, ordination which can only be administered by a Bishop, should take place at the cathedral, at the Bishop's chair. However, it may also take place in the candidate's own Parish.The family and friends of the ordinand (the person who is to be ordained), gather for the celebration. The Bishop, priests, deacons and ordinand process to the altar and the Mass begins. They might sing hymns which mention being called such as, ‘Here I Am Lord’.

THE LITURGY OF THE WORDThe readings may be from the Mass of the day or selected from readings which are suitable for ordination. Obvious examples might be:Isaiah 61:1-3a The Lord has anointed me and sent meActs 10:37-43 We can witness to everything Jesus didJohn 15:9-17 You did not choose me, I chose you.

RITE OF ORDINATION

Presentation of the candidatesThe candidate is called forward from the congregation by the deacon who assists the Bishop. The ordinand stands in front of the Bishop. The Bishop asks, ' Do you judge him to be worthy’? The Bishop then says a prayer of election, 'We rely on the help of the Lord God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, and we choose this man, our brother, for priesthood in the presbyterial order’ . The people give their consent to the election of the candidate by replying to the Bishop, 'Thanks be to God'.

The significance of these rites is that the Bishop, the head of the Local Church, voices aloud the ‘vocation’, the call of the candidate. The call comes from Christ, and it is voiced on Christ’s behalf by the Bishop. Moreover, the call from Christ is always to a particular service, to a particular

community. The Bishop, in the name of the community, chooses the candidates as one who will serve it.You may make links here to scripture relating to the call of Jesus to follow him. The children studied this last year in the topic ‘Mission’ – e.g. Luke 5:27-32 The call of Matthew (God’s Story 3 p96); Mark 1:14-20 The call of Simon and Andrew (God’s Story 3 p89) and Mark 3:13-19 The call of the twelve (God’s Story 3 p90)

HOMILYThe Bishop now explains the meaning of ordination and the service he must carry out. The first part is addressed to the whole assembly; the second to the candidate.

EXAMINATION OF THE CANDIDATEThe candidate now stands before the Bishop who asks him if he is freely choosing to be ordained and will promise to be a good and faithful priest by caring for his flock, celebrating the sacraments, preaching the gospel and living a Christ-like life. He answers, “I am, with the help of God.”

PROMISE OF OBEDIENCEThe priest is a co-worker with the Bishop and to symbolise his dependence, the ordinand kneels before him and placing his joined hands between the hands of the Bishop promises to respect and obey the Bishop.

INVITATION TO PRAYER AND LITANY OF THE SAINTSThe responsibilities of a priest have been explained in the homily and God’s help is needed to carry these out. The candidate is now offered the support of the prayer of the Church. The Bishop invites everyone to ‘pour out the gifts of heaven’ on the candidate. It is in an ancient prayer called the ‘Litany of the Saints’ that this supplication is made. The candidate prostrates himself as this great Church prayer of supplication pours over him, while everyone else kneels in prayer.

LAYING ON OF HANDSThis is a very ancient, symbolic gesture going back into the Old Testament times. Its original meaning was one of empowerment and in the New Testament it acquired a special significance of empowerment by the Spirit. Here it is symbolising the invocation (calling down) of the Spirit and the empowerment for a special task in the community. The Bishop lays his hands on the ordinand’s head. The priests present also make this same gesture. The candidate remains kneeling before the Bishop, who extends his hands over the candidate as a sign of calling down God’s Spirit while he says the prayer of consecration:“Almighty Father,grant to this servant of yours the dignity ofpriesthood.Renew within him the spirit of holiness.As a co-worker with the order of bishopsmay he be faithful to the ministry that he receivesfrom you, Lord God,and be to others a model of right conduct.”

(The children may remember that this laying on of hands also takes place in confirmation, the Sacrament of Reconciliation and during the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick).

INVESTITURE

The stole and chasuble The newly ordained priest is now invested with symbols of his priestly office: a stole and a chasuble. A stole is worn around the neck as a sign of service and priesthood. A chasuble is a loose, coloured top vestment worn for the celebration of Mass.

AnointingThe Bishop anoints the priest’s hands with oil of chrism as a sign of consecration. This has obvious links to baptism and confirmation where an anointing with chrism also takes place. (See the notes on Year 4 under ‘Anointing with Chrism). This means he has been set apart and promised to spend his life in service for others. It is the priest’s hands through which he will administer the sacraments on the Bishop’s behalf.

Receiving the paten and chaliceThe newly ordained now receives the essential ‘tools’ of a priest’s ministry. Bread is placed on a paten and wine in a chalice. The Bishop presents them to the newly ordained priest and says, “Accept from the holy people of God the gifts to be offered to him.”

KISS OF PEACEThe final symbolic gesture in the rite of ordination is the kiss of peace. The bishop gives the new priest the kiss of peace. The other priests also greet him, welcoming and congratulating him with a kiss of peace.

The LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST AND CONCLUDING RITE continues in the usual way.