More than 600 pupils and staff from across Renfrewshire came together for Pilgrims in the Park, a special event celebrating faith, community and the shared heritage of the area's denominational schools. 

Primary 7 pupils and staff, gathered at St Mirin's Cathedral in Paisley on Wednesday, 9 September for a special Mass before walking to Barshaw Park to take part in activities.  

The event brought together pupils from denominational primary schools across Renfrewshire to learn more about the patron saints of their schools. Activities were led by secondary school pupils from each of Renfrewshire's denominational secondary school catchments, helping younger pupils explore their shared traditions. 

Hundreds of pupils take part in Pilgrims in the Park

After gathering at a central meeting point in Barshaw Park, pupils took part in activities across three designated stations, with schools grouped by cluster. Throughout the day, pupils engaged in learning, reflection and discussion centred on the lives and values of their schools' patron saints.  

Pilgrims in the Park provided an opportunity to strengthen links between primary and secondary schools, support pupils as they prepare for the transition to secondary education and celebrate the rich faith heritage shared by Renfrewshire's denominational school communities. 

Lyndsey Gardyne, Head Teacher at St John Bosco Primary School, said, "It was our privilege and pleasure to organise Pilgrims in the Park for out P7 children in Renfrewshire.  

"It was inspiring to see so many P7 pupils gathered together, enjoying the opportunity to reflect, celebrate and listen to the young people from our secondary schools. The sense of community, faith and belonging was evident throughout the day, making it a truly uplifting experience for everyone involved.  

"We hope that Pilgrims in the Park will remain a cherished memory for our children and young people for many years to come."  

Hundreds of pupils take part in Pilgrims in the Park

Jacqui McBurnie, St Anthony's Primary, said, " Pilgrims in the Park was a truly special experience and one which I was delighted to help organise. Seeing hundreds of our young people come together to celebrate their faith, their schools and the patron saints who are such an important part of our shared heritage was incredibly inspiring. 

"What made the day particularly powerful was seeing faith brought to life through the children and young people themselves. Our P7 pupils had the opportunity to pray, reflect, learn and celebrate together, while listening to and learning from pupils in our secondary schools. The enthusiasm, joy and sense of belonging throughout the day demonstrated beautifully what it means to put our faith into action."