Spiritual Development at St Andrew's
Our Definition of Spirituality
Spirituality is something special and unique to each of us. It helps us feel connected – to ourselves, to other people, to the world around us, and to something greater than us, like God. It is our shared journey to find meaning, ask big questions, and appreciate the beauty and wonder in life.
The Four Areas of Spirituality
When we develop our spirituality, we think about our relationships with ourselves, others, the world and God.
The 'Ows'
'Ouch' moments in your heart:
OWs are times when something happens that makes your heart feel a little sad, confused, or hurt. It's like a little “ouch” inside—not on your knee, but in your feelings.
These moments can happen...
- When someone is mean to you.
- When you feel left out or lonely.
- When you make a mistake and feel bad.
- When you wonder, “Why did this happen?”
- When you see something in the wider world that you don't understand.
Sometimes, your heart feels a little sad or unsure. That’s an OW. But guess what? These moments help us grow stronger, kinder, and closer to understanding what really matters.
The 'Wows'
WOWs are those amazing, magical-feeling moments when your heart feels full of joy, love, or peace. It’s when you feel something special that you can't always explain.
- Watching a beautiful sunset.
- Feeling really loved by your family or friends.
- Doing something kind and feeling proud.
- Looking at the stars and thinking, “Wow, the world is amazing!”
Sometimes, you feel something so good inside that you just say, ‘WOW!’ That’s your spirit feeling happy and connected to something bigger—like love, nature, or even something you can’t see but know is there.
The 'Vows'
VOWs are special promises you make from your heart—promises to yourself, to others, or even to something bigger (like love, kindness, or God).
- “I promise to be kind to my friends.”
- “I want to help take care of the earth.”
- “I will try to tell the truth.”
- “I will be brave even when I feel scared.”
A VOW is a promise you make with love. It’s like telling your heart, ‘This is what I believe in, and I want to live by it.’ VOWs help you grow into the best version of yourself!
The 'Pows'
POWs are strong, powerful moments when you do something brave, kind, or really meaningful. They’re when your VOWs come to life! This is our Courageous Advocacy.
- Standing up for someone being bullied.
- Saying sorry when it’s hard.
- Sharing something special without being asked.
- Helping someone who needs a friend.
- Raising money to help others in the local or global community.
A POW is a moment when you do something powerful from your heart—something that makes the world a little better. POWs are when your love, bravery, or kindness really shine!