On the penultimate day in January, daylight hours were lengthening and some brightness was breaking through the clouds as the Over Wyre Benefice welcomed youngsters to the latest God Outdoors event.
Themed around the feast of Candlemas, and celebrating the extraordinary story of St. Brigid, a fifth century Irish Abbess, the children were invited to refuel with juice and biscuits after school, before engaging in a selection of creative activities.
Using clay and sparkly decorations, candle holders were crafted by the little ones before they scooted off to experience some candle dipping to complete their creations. Some youngsters opted for a minimalist look, choosing a single colour of melted wax to make a statement, whilst others definitely preferred a more opulent design!
For those who love wildlife, the chance to make some bird feeders from lard and bird seed was irresistible. The children deliberated about shapes and which cutter to choose before threading them with string, ready to dangle from branches at home.
Indoors, there was a rush to make some Brigid crosses – from sixteen stalks of rush. Rev. Naomi successfully guided the youngsters through the cross-making process. The results were impressive.
Once everyone had enjoyed a simple meal together, Rev. Naomi gathered little ones and big ones around the fire to tell the story of Brigid. The event concluded with the God Outdoors action prayer:
We have come to Nature’s playground,
To a wild cathedral, where the trees lift their hands in praise and the rocks cry out His name.
We have come to meet God Outdoors.
In the fading light, clutching their treasures, the children headed off home. They had another story to think about. New friendships had been formed and new experiences gained. The evening may have been chilly, but hearts had been warmed, for sure.
