Chilling Out at BBC

It's now nearly three years since we first threw open the doors for Messy Church. Over that time about eighty people have come at least once, and many - ranging in age from toddlers to octogenarians - have become 'regulars' at this afternoon of games, crafts, storytelling, food and fun. In the Autumn we started asking the regulars how Messy Church might evolve in order to broaden its appeal - especially for older children and adults who wouldn't usually 'go to church'. There were some great suggestions:

• Have both games and craft activities available right from the start, so that there's more time to do whatever it is you most enjoy doing. (Some people get very engrossed in the crafts, others prefer playing with their friends or sitting chatting.)

• Have refreshments like tea and cakes every time, and a sit-down meal on special occasions.

• Don't call it 'church' - there's always a Bible story / talk, three songs and a prayer, but the God-stuff isn't rammed down your throat. It is an expression of Christian worship, but not one you'll have seen before!

• Give older children a chance to participate with the story-telling through drama and music.
  

The result of all this thinking is that, since February, Messy Church has become Chill-out @ BBC. It is still on the third Sunday of each month, and from February - April it will start at 3 pm and finish by 5 pm.

In May and June a shorter session containing the same elements will start at 10 am with tea / coffee and either a doughnut / pastry (May) or a bacon sandwich (June - Fathers' Day Special) and finish by 11.15. Other activities 'out and about' may be planned for the afternoons.

People of all ages are welcome to come and 'chill-out' with us.

Rev Mary Moody