"If services such as this appeared in church statistics, the average age of a Christian worshipper would drop from 50 to five."
This was the opening of an enthusiastic review of Little Torches, the monthly service for under 5s and their carers written by Times' reporter, Ruth Gledhill, as part of her regular Saturday "At Your Service" column.
"At each service we have a lively and interactive retelling of a bible story using puppets, adult actors, helium balloons, cardboard boxes or anything-else that might catch the imagination of an under 5, with lots of audience participation encouraged. We sing some songs with instruments, actions or streamers, we have a craft activity and lots of toys," said Viv Lingard, one of the organisers. "As a team we were really pleased with the comments made by Ruth Gledhill and we will be working hard over the next term in the hope that those who come to Little Torches, will feel the star rating we were awarded was justified".
We aim to make Little Torches a positive experience for children and link church in their minds with fun, enjoyment, music and games - to teach parents and children together," says co-organiser Mary Heywood. "We hope Little Torches is friendly and welcoming for everyone, whether this is the only service they attend or whether they attend church regularly on a Sunday."
For more details contact Viv (276509) or Mary (277448).
