St Bartholomew’s Primary School came together recently for a special time of prayer, reflection and remembrance as members of the school’s Mini Vinnies group joined parish priest, Fr Phil Swanson, in a traditional crowning of Mary ceremony.

The service took place in the school’s Mary Garden, a dedicated prayer space created in memory of treasured former teacher Mrs Rigby, who passed away several years ago. The garden serves as both a place of devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and a lasting tribute to Mrs Rigby’s contribution to the school community.

Deputy headteacher, Helen Forrest, said: “Mrs Rigby was passionate about sharing prayer with our pupils and had a deep appreciation of the natural world, often encouraging children to marvel at God’s wonderful creation. The garden provides a peaceful place for prayer, reflection and remembrance, and continues to be a fitting tribute to her lasting contribution to our school community.”

During the ceremony, Mini Vinnies played an active role by blessing the crown with holy water, carrying it in procession and placing it on Mary’s head. They also led prayers in honour of Mary and spent time reflecting on God’s creation in the peaceful setting of the garden.

The occasion was made even more memorable by the beautiful weather, with bright sunshine and birdsong providing a fitting backdrop to the service. Following the ceremony, Mini Vinnies visited each class throughout the school, inviting fellow pupils to spend their own time in prayer and reflection within the Mary Garden.

Headteacher, Melanie Lockley, said: “We were delighted to welcome Fr Phil to school to lead a special time of prayer and reflection with some of our Mini Vinnies. It was a wonderful opportunity to honour Mary, mother of Jesus, during the month of May, whilst also taking time to remember those we have lost, including a much-loved former member of staff. Mrs Rigby dedicated many years to supporting children and families across our school community and continued to do so long after retiring from her classroom teaching role.”

Pupils also reflected on the significance of the ceremony and the importance of the Mary Garden within school life. Harmony said: “The Mary Garden was created in honour of Jesus’ mum, Mary, and in memory of a past teacher called Mrs Rigby who dedicated her life to our school with passion and love.

“Mrs Rigby led lots of religious services within our school and worked very hard to ensure that we prayed together, as well as trying to do our best in subjects like RE, maths and English. We enjoyed spending time outside listening to the birds and looking at the lovely plants in our Mary Garden.” 

The annual crowning of Mary remains an important tradition at St Bartholomew’s, bringing together prayer, reflection and remembrance while celebrating the values of faith, community and gratitude at the heart of school life.