Messy Church Sunday 24^th January 2016

After introductions and some rousing songs the story of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector (Luke 18: 9-14) was enacted for us, in costume, by members of the ‘Open the Book’ tea. Jesus used this story to teach us that we should pray for the right reasons, warns against thinking that we are better than others and that no-one is beyond the reach of God’s love and forgiveness. Another song brought us (31 in all) to the four activities: –

• Dissolving ink and even paper in various household chemicals (God’s forgiveness washes away our sins)
• Making prayer bracelets from coloured wools (to remind us, like the tassels on a Jewish prayer shawl, to pray)
• Dipping 2 pieces of fruit in chocolate, one to eat ourselves and one to give away (to learn about giving to others and to God)
• A low obstacle course (to show us that life is full of hurdles to overcome).

The light supper which followed was greatly enjoyed before the families dispersed, having had an enjoyable and thought provoking afternoon.

All are invited to join the informal style of Christian worship for the whole family involving celebration, storytelling, singing, creative activity and a meal together. The next gathering at St Francis School is Sunday 28^th February between 4 and 6pm.

To find out more about Messy Church visit www.messychurch.org.uk or call Mary and Michael Wright on 01326 210824