We inaugurated our prayer trees today with a lovely ceremony.
People of differing faiths gathered at church. We were people of Christian (Anglican, Orthodox, Roman Catholic and others), Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and Sikh faith. We were of differing ages (6 to 84+), differing nationalities and backgrounds. St Johns children played drums, Min played the cello, we talked, prayed and had food.
Each of us took a ribbon and quietly prayed as we held it. Then our ribbons were tied to our outside prayer tree. The tree with its colour and variety was a sign of unity in our diversity.
Then inside we wrote prayer requests on paper leaves made by St Chrysostom’s School children and they were pegged to the indoor prayer tree. St John’s children brought lovely paper doves bearing hand written prayers. The doves now rest in the prayer tree.
Our joyful gathering celebrated the variety of our wonderful area, and was a sign to ourselves and others of the importance of prayer and spiritual values to us all. The vibrancy and colour of the outside tree will continue that witness to all who pass by.
St Chrysostom's Church News and Views 
Thank you for the opportunity to leave our individual prayer requests in such a creative and collaborative way. Our year 5 pupils enjoyed the cello music and gave Min a resounding round of applause. Similarly, they loved being greeted by Djembe drumming courtesy of St John’s!
Our thanks go to Father Ian and Jack for giving us this experience. We returned to school with joy in our hearts.