Many churches often pause their regular activities during the school holidays. This year, Church of the Good Shepherd in Battle Hill decided to use this opportunity to reach out to their local community in new ways.
The Revd Julie Mooney said: “I really like the changing seasons in ministry. Whilst many of our regular meetings stop during the school holidays, it gives us an opportunity to reach out in mission in a different way.”
Over the summer, the church have as a result, forged a stronger partnership with their local Brownies and Rainbows groups.
Revd Julie added: “This is wonderful because the group is run by Jo, the granddaughter of the late Norman Fritze, who was a dear member of our church family.”
The two groups were able to help the Church of the Good Shepherd as they strive to take better care of God’s creation, building a range of beautiful bird and insect huts for the church.
They also joined forces to host a Bingo night with prizes of sweets and soft toys. The event was well attended by members of the congregation, members of the local community and also friends from Charlton Court Care Home.
The Family Fun Day at Northumbria Police Headquarters in Battle Hill provided another opportunity to promote the church and its activities. Invitations to church were distributed and police vehicles tested out. The team spent time speaking to police offers, thanking them for all the work they do and assuring them of their prayers.
Alongside neighbouring churches and the Local Authority as part of the Rising Sun Neighbours Group, the church took part in the annual Rising Sun Festival. Amongst the stalls, fairground rides and food, the Group gave out invitations to church and provided craft stalls, where children had the opportunity to craft a sheep.
A very successful summer indeed!