Shrieks of glee filled Christ Church on Saturday as dozens of children enjoyed the Light Fantastic Party. Excited youngsters of all ages celebrated the light Jesus brings to the world in the fun-packed alternative to Halloween. Over seventy children had nothing to be scared of on 31st October as they dived into activities, crafts, messy games and a party picnic. The fun kicked off with a bouncy castle and the chance to decorate an owl cake, make a colourful spider or its glittery web.Children also said a powerful pumpkin prayer as they carved a non-scary lantern to represent God's light.
All 72 youngsters then came together in praise to raise the roof of the church with a joyful song and dance session. They united to say the pumpkin prayer and joined in a lively story that showed there is nothing to be scared of with Jesus around. Big-hearted Masha, five, was presented with a pumpkin carved to the prayer for her enthusiastic participation but showed true Christian spirit by choosing to share it with four-year-old Santino. After eating their fill of party food the children got stuck into a range of messy games including apple bobbing, jelly feeding and diving head first into flour and green goo to find treats. The young revellers then went home with party bags and helium balloons to remind them of the fun and joyful messageof the party.
Children's and families' minister Sarah Baker said: "The idea is to show children Jesus is the light to the world, with all the scary things going on around the world to know Jesus is our saviour. "I am so pleased with how it has gone, it's been an amazing time. Lots of people from the fringe of the church have come along, children have enjoyed themselves and seeds have been sown. "I really appreciate all the helpers that have helped make it such a fantastic event."
Written by Emma Wall | Photographs by Tim Merry
