The exciting sight of uniquely tie-dyed t-shirts, drying on washing lines and airers greeted the youngsters as they tumbled through the gates. They were super keen to see their own unique, paint-splattered masterpiece!
The final Bible story to be explored, was the miraculous catch of fish and the calling of the disciples. Key elements from this story – nets, water, boats, fish, calling and following, were neatly linked to each zone and provided the inspiration for the activities for children to immerse themselves in throughout the day.
The Chill Zone gave small hands the chance to create some colourful, woven fish, whilst the Challenge Zone offered a variety of water-based games in addition to the ever-popular ball and table-top favourites. There was something distinctly ‘fishy’ in the Create Zone which was continually busy with the crafting of amazing fish mobiles and fish disks amongst other aquatic delights. For those of a more curious disposition, there was a wonderful (and wonder-full) science experiment going on. Paper nets, revealed a miraculous catch of fish, when submerged in a special solution, taking children by surprise, much like the fishermen James and John, when, following a most disappointing day on the water, following Jesus’ instruction to try again, caught nothing short of a miraculous haul of fish.
Junk modelling was a popular choice throughout the morning, and some amazing structures and animals emerged, created out of throwaway items. Cardboard boxes transformed into robots and habitats for wildlife; tubes became legs for buildings, animals, humans or supernatural beings and rockets and spacecraft emerged from bags of ‘rubbish’. Imagination was without limits.
Like the previous two days, everyone gathered in church for snacks, journal work and to witness the latest crazy conversation between the not-so-bright-spark ‘Sparky’ and the self-important Professor’s protégé. The children loved the mix of slap-stick comedy and cheeky banter which ensued. Behind the seemingly frivolous script, some deep truths emerged, linked specifically to the teaching of Jesus and the Bible story of the day.
More free-play outside and structured activities within the Zones was enjoyed before lunch and another Wallace and Gromit film.
The afternoon plans proved to be a highlight! A water slide was set up on the field and the chance to ‘Sponge the Leader’ caused great amusement. Children had changed into their ‘wet weather’ gear and showed no hesitation in having a soaking. Team games, such as passing the wet sponge along the line were enjoyed as a precursor to the most serious business of the afternoon – the water slide. A variety of styles were adopted to traverse the soapy tarpaulin and survive the onslaught from water pistols: tummy slides, knee slides, sprints and walk-throughs, all with varying success. Shrieks and screams of delight vocalised sheer delight.
One final gather in church and some much-loved action songs completed a whirlwind of a day. Some children were ultra keen to wear their new tie-dyed t-shirt, and standing together, they formed the loveliest of rainbows. Youngsters were collected by their adults and could be seen leaving the church grounds with armfuls of ‘stuff’, they had created, crafted and discovered throughout the most amazing of experiences.
