An assembly which uses the them of the John Lewis Christmas Advert 2012 The Journey. Explain that the advert is entitled ‘The Journey’. Invite the school community to discuss the storyline. Ask: ‘What does it tell us about care and giving?’ Observe that whether we are buying or making a Christmas gift, or simply helping a friend, it costs time and trouble to show that we care. Discuss how the Christmas story might also be entitled ‘The Journey’. It tells of Mary and Joseph’s journey into the unknown to bring the world the gift of Jesus. How did they feel? Wise men also faced difficulties and dangers on their long adventure to present their gifts. Why did they travel so far? In conclusion, refer to a story telling how a boy in Africa gave his teacher a Christmas gift. It was a beautiful seashell. “Where did you get this?” she asked. The boy explained that he had walked to a far-off beach to find it. Amazed and surprised, the teacher said: “You shouldn’t have gone so far just to find a present for me.” The boy smiled. He replied: “The long walk is part of the present.” Play the advert again. The children really enjoyed it! Hopefully this will save you time!

The assembly is topped and tailed with a script for pupils (worship team) introducing and concluding the assembly. (All my assemblies follow this consistent format.) The assembly begins with a definition of Diwa: One Diva lamp; a row of lights is ‘Diwali’. Preparations include: Families clean their homes, Special food and sweets are enjoyed, Fireworks are often part of the celebrations. Revise what we know about Rangoli Patterns. A link to the story of Rama & Sita. The goddess of wealth, fortune, power, beauty, fertility and prosperity. Make the point that Hindus celebrate and decorate to ‘invite’ and make Lakshmi welcome. This belief is linked to the preparation and hope for a more prosperous new year!