St Ambrose Preparatory School

A Week of Reflection and Creativity: St Ambrose Shares the Icon Journey

On Monday 11th November, St Ambrose College joined our community for a Gospel Assembly that opened a week of prayer, reflection, and creativity. Their Jubilee Committee led a beautiful whole-school liturgy in which they presented the Icon, inviting everyone into a moment of shared contemplation. As part of the service, pupils were guided through a meaningful pilgrimage, passing through the Holy Door and taking time to reflect on the themes of welcome, encounter, and grace.

Throughout the week that followed, pupils at St Ambrose Prep engaged deeply with the Icon, allowing it to inspire a wide range of artistic, spiritual, and reflective activities. Children created their own interpretations of the Visitation through vibrant artwork, hands-on activities, and thoughtful prayer. Many designed stained-glass window pieces, capturing the light and colour of the original artwork, while others wrote their own versions of the Magnificat. These personal expressions not only showcased their creativity but also encouraged them to explore the role of Mary in their own faith journeys.

The week concluded with a reflective and intimate liturgy delivered by the St Ambrose Prep Leadership Team at Blessed Thomas Holford, held in the quiet setting of the school chapel. One of the most moving moments came when the Prep 3 pupils used sign language to pray the Hail Mary. This gesture of reverence and inclusion touched everyone present and brought the week’s journey to a fittingly heartfelt close.

Through prayer, art, and shared celebration, the St Ambrose community helped bring the spirit of the Icon to life—reminding us of the power of encounter, creativity, and compassion within our Network.