It is obvious to regular participants in a range of rituals, no matter the subject matter or the culture, that there is a common way in which rituals tend to move. Even the most complicated ritual will still clearly represent a beginning, middle and endpoint. One way that Lovat (1995, pp. 25-26) describes this idea is with a five stage structured movement pattern shown in the image on the left. Lovat’s model shows the participant entering the ritual, engaging in preparation, reaches a central point, being part of the celebration and then re-entering the ordinary.
When one views this model closer it is easy to see the importance of the ritual and the set pattern that it follows. A prayer liturgy will follow this pattern and allow (in a school setting) the participants, being young children, a chance to engage and feel connected with what is taking place.
·ENTRY- May be the taking up of symbols such as bible, cross and candle
·PREPERATION- Singing of a hymn
·CENTRAL POINT- Reading a particular piece of scripture or saying a prayer
·CELEBRATION- Lighting of a candle
·RE-ENTRY- The students may share a reflection or a return to normal chatter