The last weekly worship of the year! This week’s ALIVE value is ‘We Can Review.’

Firstly, well done to each one of you for making it through year. You’ve made it through each day, the good days and the bad days.

Be proud of what you’ve achieved.

Be motivated by what you’ve learnt.

Be thankful for those who have been with you through the year.

As we review the year, I can say for certain that all of you have shown resilience at some point in this year. You have shown us that you can withstand difficult times or bounce back from challenges and failures.

Turn to the people around you, ask them to share where they have shown resilience this year. Celebrate this with each other.

As the dust settles on the recent 2024 Euro tournament, one story of resilience stands out.

Back in 2021, Bukayo Saka missed his penalty shot that sealed the victory for Italy to win the Euro’s. While battling disappointment in himself, he was the victim of vile abuse and racism from so-called ‘fans.’ Saka shared shortly after, ‘I felt like I'd let England down….’

Did he leave the game of football at this point? Was this the end of the football road for Saka?

No – he found perseverance and determination, relying on his faith in God and the support of others.

This year, during the Euro’s tournament, he had the chance to take a penalty again… and scored! Let’s see what he says.

With his eyes set on faith in God, he recognises that what he faced made him stronger. His story was not bound by failure or disappointment, but it shaped a new chapter of growing strength.

What has made you stronger this year?

What have you been able to overcome?

Share with those near you, what has life taught you this year?

Let’s close with prayer,

Father God, you have loved and cared for us this year. Thank you that your promise is that you will never leave us or forsake us.

You have walked with us through our worst days and our best days.

Be close to us as we finish this school year and start our summer break.

We pray for all this in your name,

Amen.

We’re super proud of all of you, and we hope you have a blessed summer break.

See you in September!

Chaplain Josh.