What is Messy Church

Who can come ?

What does it cost ?

What is it like ?

 

 

What is Messy Church?


Messy Church is a whole new way of being church. The concept behind Messy Church is that children come accompanied by a responsible adult. As soon as you come into Messy Church you are given a big welcome, a drink and a biscuit. Then there are lots of different activities already set out for children and their adult(s) to engage with. This ‘chilling out’ is also a wonderful opportunity to meet with the Messy Church leaders, all of whom are easily recognisable because they are wearing Messy Church tee-shirts. It is also a good time for adults and children to meet new people.

At the appropriate time the leaders of Messy Church gather for an ‘official welcome’ and to share any special news. The theme for the session is then offered. The theme is clearly linked to the Bible. We have already covered themes including Creation, Christmas and Jesus Christ who is the Light of the World.

There are already several art and craft tables beautifully set out with specific crafts appropriate to the theme. All art work is eventually taken home. Once again a Messy Church leader looks after their own art and craft activity whilst children and their adult(s) engage together with an activity of their choice. This session usually lasts for an hour. The art and craft is then followed by our celebration time.

 

 Here we sing together, jump, clap, sign together, listen to a bible story presented in a stimulating and lively way and say a prayer together.

 

 

Next we move back to the art and craft area which has been transformed into a beautiful dining area where a two course meal is served. So far we have eaten pie, a variety of vegetables and potatoes followed by apple pie and custard; cottage pie, vegetables followed by flapjack; a Christmas buffet followed by a variety of small cakes and in January we had pitta bread, salad and a variety of dips followed by jelly, fruit and cream.

 

 

Finally, we all gather together to share a special time of being thankful for what we have all shared. Some people like to demonstrate what they have made. Others just like to use the time to continue getting to know people. We say goodbye until we meet again next month.

 

Who can come to Messy Church?

Messy Church is open to all however all children MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult who supervises the child(ren) throughout.

 

How often does Messy Church meet?

We meet on the fourth Wednesday of the month during school term.

 

Where does Messy Church meet?

We meet at St Giles Church Hall on Sheepcote Road, Killamarsh.

 

What time does it start?

Messy Church is open from 3.15pm.

 

Who runs Messy Church?

The majority of people who run Messy Church also worship at St Giles Parish Church on a Sunday morning. Messy Church leaders are committed to offering the very best they can to all who come and so hopefully reflecting God’s love through Jesus Christ.

 

How much does it cost to come to Messy Church?

All the leaders and helpers give their time freely and willingly because they believe that Messy Church does help families to learn about God and Jesus in a fun and creative environment. Each session is offered free however if you would like to offer a donation towards the craft resources and lovely food then your donation will be gratefully received and used for future Messy Church sessions.

 

How can I become a Messy Church leader?

If you are wanting to become a Messy Church leader then please come and talk to Reverend Helen.

 

What is it like experiencing Messy Church?

At the last  Messy Church session, held on Wednesday 28th January these were some of the comments made by parents:-

Kelly:”Kids love it and could not wait to come again”.

Another:”Mum enjoys making friends and seeing her son enjoy himself.”

Nichola:”I came to here as well as Eckington. Both are enjoyable.”

Sheila:” It is a very good idea. I travel from Clowne with grandson. I came in November but could not stay the whole time so looking forward to enjoying it all.”

 

Written by Revd Helen 9/2/09

Priest in Charge of St Giles, Killamarsh

Curate of St Matthew’s, Renishaw

Revsguest@btinternet.com