On a wet and dismal day, light and joy infused St. Monica as 36 people participated in the first Messy Church – 15 of whom were children. It was truly a cooperative event between St. Monica, Horseshoe Bay and St. Francis-in-the-Wood, Caulfeild.
Participants of all ages engaged in eight craft activities, from decorating cupcakes to making paper airplanes and windmills. We then learned three Messy Songs to prepare us for worship. And we also practiced some sound and hand actions that would enhance the story of Pentecost.Led by a child hoisting a bright red umbrella, everyone processed into the sanctuary singing “We are Marching in the Light of God.” Small noisemakers were provided to help us keep the beat. The story of Pentecost was then told, with sounds of rushing wind, flames of fire above everyone’s head, praising god in all languages, and our prayers were enclosed, flown and read from the paper airplanes. A favourite with the children was “The Butterfly Song” (see the photo). We then said our Messy Grace, with hand actions of course, and proceeded to the church hall singing “Allelu, Alleluia to the Lord.” We then shared a meal of salad, lasagna and “decorated cupcakes.”
After months of planning and wondering, “Will anyone come?” God gifted us with more than we could have asked for or imagined. It was so exciting to have all those children with us, along with their parents and grandparents. The next Messy Church will be at St. Monica, Saturday, September 29, 4 – 6pm.
Images: Top, Children singing "If I were a butterfly" - - "if I were a crocodile, I'd thank you Lord for my big smile..." Below, blow-painting to illustrate the power of the wind during Pentecost.
PHOTOS: Debbie Brand