January Chapel Lessons: Shining our Light and Living with Purpose

This half-term in our Chapel lessons, both Year 7 and Year 9 have been reflecting on themes from Matthew’s Gospel as part of their Religious Studies curriculum. These sessions offered pupils a chance to pause, think deeply, and consider how their actions can bring light and goodness into the world.

Year 7: Let your light shine: Year 7 explored Jesus’ words, “Let your light shine,” building on their Advent reflections about Jesus as the Light of the World. Pupils discussed how each of us can bring hope and kindness to others, just like a light that’s meant to be seen—not hidden. They thought about people who have been a light in their own lives and wrote notes of appreciation to thank them.

Year 9: Discipleship: Year 9 continued their study of discipleship with Jesus’ teaching, “Take up your cross and follow me.” In Chapel, they reflected on the values and purposes that guide their choices. Pupils considered the people who inspire them through kindness, hard work, or the way they use their gifts, and wrote appreciation notes to recognise these everyday role models.

Both year groups have been set the same meaningful challenge:

Share your appreciation note.

Let someone know how their light—or their example—has made a difference to you.

By passing these notes on, we hope that our Sacred Heart students brighten someone’s day, celebrate the good in others, and shine their own light a little more brightly.