Over the summer, churches across the diocese have been getting away together, holding fairs, hosting BBQs, and serving their local communities in a huge number of ways.
It’s been encouraging to hear from so many worshipping communities about their events and gatherings.
Many churches have opened their doors, running cafes, clubs and drop-ins, including Christ the King - Beaumont Leys, who served up amazing cakes and cooked breakfasts at their Wednesday Pop up Café, along with lots of activities and games for all ages and a space for prayer.
Similarly, Café Fifty Five, opened by St Luke’s Church in Thurnby, held a treasure hunt, face painting, creative challenges and more throughout the summer, including a massive BBQ and fete over the bank holiday weekend, where they served up 400 meals.
Churches in Mountsorrel organised a packed week of fun socials, including art activities, meals, walks and a cinema morning.
A number of our churches have run summer clubs and playschemes, such as St Mary's Church in Lutterworth, who hosted theirs at the local high school, welcoming 71 children, 14 teenage leaders, and 28 adult leaders for a week. Youth worker, Ben Horrex, who helped lead the club, said: “This year we explored the story of Jonah through drama, craft, sports and plenty of games. The club is a highlight of the church's year and a fantastic way to connect with families in the local area.
“At the end of the week, 110 people - including many children from Summer Club - joined in for an outdoor service and BBQ to celebrate the week together.”
Worshipping communities have also been away together, to large events and local camps.
30 young people attended the annual Cornerstone Team summer camp, with lots to fun, campfires and and bible teaching following the character, Joseph, while a group of teenagers from St Nicholas Church in Fleckney and St Andrew’s, Jarrom Street, joined more than 300 people at the Walsingham Youth Pilgrimage.
“The worship and liturgy in the Big Top was inspirational,” said the Revd Canon Philip O'Reilly, who led the group. “We were taught about how we are all called to join with Mary in singing the Lord's song.
“Two of the young people spoke about how they would like to explore what it would mean for them to make a deeper commitment to the Christian faith. Thanks be to God for all his blessings in a wonderful week!”