Family Ministries Hallowe’en Party ~ Oct. 30, 2018

         Our parish hall was dimly light by (safety) candles as ghosts flew and giant spiders crawled on web-covered windows at the Family Ministries’ secular Hallowe’en party presented by the Messy Church team.  In attendance were several young superheroes, a skunk, a veterinarian, Robin Hood & Maid Marion, and many other costumed kids and adults.  A snack table, three craft tables, a hidden selection of “creepy” stuff to touch, extra costumes, board games, and a pumpkin-carving contest were offered to an enthusiastic crowd of about 50 people.

         The craft I supervised was the making of a spooky Hallowe’en glove with inexpensive stretchy gloves from the dollar store and craft supplies.  Every child’s glove was unique and I was inspired by their creativity.  I like working one-on-one with children and was impressed by the parents who took their children around from station to station.  They all seemed very happy to be there.

         My heart is drawn to Messy Church because it takes me back to my childhood; to the full classrooms of Sunday school where the cornerstone of my life was laid.  Maybe it is a way of saying thank you to all those faithful teachers, and also to my parents for raising me in the Christian faith.  Sunday morning church attendance may be difficult for young families today, but if Messy Church can provide an option to learn about Jesus, I’m all in.  And although at this particular event there was no discussion of Jesus, there was certainly a lot of love and hospitality in the air.

         The night ended with a trick-or-treat handout as the kids walked down a line of volunteers handing out treats.  It was very satisfying to be part of the crew that helped stage this event for anyone who wished to attend, including neighbours both near and from the greater Owen Sound area, and also the young families of our congregation.

Margie Blender