Over 500 pupils and adults from 15 church primary schools filled St Edmundsbury Cathedral last Tuesday for a Big Sing. This was a special service, with a theme of 'Easter hope' was organised by the Diocesan education team in partnership with Christian Aid.
The children sang songs specially commissioned by Christian Aid to raise awareness of issues of global justice. Pupils from six of the schools spoke about how they are taking action to tackle injustice, some leading prayers and some singing a special rap! Alex Cassidy from Christian Aid spoke about the charity’s vital work in creating a world where everyone can live a full life, free from poverty. Founded 80 years ago in the aftermath of the Second World War, Christian Aid continues to provide long term development support as well as emergency relief across the world.
Christian Aid has recognised the Diocesan Board of Education’s outstanding commitment to Global Citizenship Education and Alex presented Jane Sheat, Diocesan Director of Education with a certificate celebrating our status as a Global Neighbours partner diocese. Jane says “It is a pleasure to work with Christian Aid. We commend their Global Neighbours scheme to all our schools. It supports children to learn about how they can help to make the world a better place. Congratulations to Sir Robert Hitcham’s CEVAP School in Framlingham which is the first school in Suffolk to win a Bronze award. The Big Sing is a joyful celebration of children’s voices. We are already looking forward to next year!”
The Big Spring Sing is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the courageous advocacy. The project is an opportunity to bring together schools from across a diocese to host a musical event at the diocese cathedral/large church. The event provides a vital platform for children to use their voices on issues of injustice while also showcasing the vital work that Christian Aid is doing. More information available here.