Young People - open The Book

Opening familiar bible stories to young minds

‘Open the Book’ is an initiative by the Diocese of Salisbury to bring well-known Bible stories to younger children in an imaginative way. A small team from St Michael’s, led by Reverend Lorraine McGregor, visits Hayeswood First School and Colehill First School once a week to take an assembly.

The format is always the same – an introduction is given to the story that is to be told, then comes the telling of the story, and then finally there is a short reflection and prayer in which the children may join if they wish.

The way the story is told varies from week to week, but it is usually a simple, dramatic presentation with the others in the group narrating and acting or miming the story, and most weeks it also involves several of the children as well, who are always enthusiastic about taking part.

The schools believe that ‘Open the Book’ provides the children with an opportunity to develop their knowledge and understanding of religious stories through an active, drama based approach as well as allowing them to learn alongside other members of the community. It has made biblical stories and themes relevant, exciting and accessible to the children.

At St Michael’s, we believe that it is an imaginative way for our Church to engage with these children and with the wider community.