WHILE Easter for many is just about the chocolate, the congregation of Melksham Messy Church learned all about the story of Easter from Palm Sunday to Easter morning, as well as enjoying some chocolate, reports
“The families learned about how Jesus died so that we could be forgiven for our sins but then rose again to show that if you accept God into your life, you will live forever,” said Hannah Tarring, Melksham Messy Church organiser and Regional Coordinator for Messy Church in Wiltshire. “They enjoyed a variety of Easter themed craft, from making (and eating) chocolate nests, stone rolling paintings, planting an Easter garden, decorating crosses and working together on two giant Easter murals.
“The Easter garden was displayed in St Andrew’s Church on Easter morning. The session ended with a shared meal of home-made lasagne and garlic bread, followed by chocolate lollies.
“Whilst we all love eating Easter eggs, we can often forget that they symbolise new life and the new life we have through Jesus.
“The Easter story can be challenging for children to understand, especially when thinking about Jesus’ death on Good Friday. At our Easter Messy Church, we celebrated our freedom in Jesus’ resurrection and what a happy day Easter is!
“We hope that Messy Church can help bring that message to families so that they can connect with God and we can explore our faith together.”
The next event is on Sunday 22nd April at 4-5.30pm at Forest and Sandridge School and will be learning about the story of Joshua. The crafts will include: stone decorating, worship ribbons and musical shakers.
The events are free (donations welcome!) and open to all, but particularly suited to families with primary aged children, run on the 4th Sunday each month. For more information please contact Hannah Tarring hannah tarring.cfm@outlook.com or visit Melksham Messy Church Facebook page.