All the publicity materials for the final day of the weekend, described Sunday as ‘FUNDAY’! This ‘blurb’ did not disappoint its readers!
St. Aidan’s High School Preesall hosted a family service with a difference. It was a space in which to share our story as Christians and pass the story on.
The ultimate storyteller – Jesus – was front and centre. A ‘storm’ was whipped up out of nowhere and the words, “Be still” brought immediate calm. The children loved creating the sound effects, the crescendo was powerful and the ensuing silence, breathtaking.
The Bible story was followed by Steve, the Gospel Juggler. His circus skills entertained and enthralled the congregation alongside the more serious narrative of God’s abundant forgiveness and love for each one of us.
The school Chaplain also had a story to recount. A personal story, showing an active God, working to restore brokenness.
A strong element of inclusion and ownership had been built into the service. The people of Over Wyre had enjoyed the chance to vote for their favourite hymn, assembly banger and Bible story…and so it came to pass! The story of Over Wyre was embedded in the service.
Inspired by Steve the Juggler’s seemingly effortless performance, all generations enjoyed the opportunity to learn some circus skills afterwards, with varying success! Spinning multiple plates was certainly harder than it looked…which in itself, told its own story of practice, perseverance and resilience…very similar to a faith journey.
Following a picnic lunch, more cake and refreshments, those gathered, moved outside onto the field into a gloriously sunny, warm September afternoon. The outdoor Communion, concelebrated by Rev. Naomi and Bishop Matthew, was quite simply, a beautiful occasion, during which the age-old words from the Last Supper were passed down to followers of Jesus in 2026. The setting was different, but the story was true to the original.
It had been a weekend packed with tales, narratives, accounts and reports, descriptions, declarations, explanations and memoirs. It had been a page-turner, a thriller, a best-seller, an eye-opener, gripping and thought-provoking, soul-searching, illuminating and edifying. Story upon story, chapters unfolding, capturing hearts and imaginations. The story of faith and faithfulness. A love story, told by the communities of Over Wyre, through practical help before, during and after the weekend, through participation and through prayerful support.
