A Revelation!
Led by Rev. Naomi, the feast of Epiphany was celebrated outdoors in a blaze of light in St. John’s church grounds (Out Rawcliffe).
This ‘Forest Church’ style inspired service was a star-studded event, with references to light sources everywhere.
There were twinkling fairy lights in the schoolroom, sparkling stars alongside the church path, dazzling displays at the end of the obstacle course, a glittering starlight trail, flickering flame light and glowing embers from the fire pits, bejeweled clay stars, star-shaped sweet treats, beams of light from torches, a luminescent moon in a cloudless sky and the bright planet Jupiter, clearly visible underneath it.
Rev. Naomi gathered the youngsters together and welcomed them before playing a much-needed ‘warm-up’ game on the coldest night of the year! Again, the game was ‘light’ inspired and invited the children to be stationary, run round, dance, and move in ways associated with various lights and functions.
The story of the magi’s journey following the star to locate the infant Jesus seemed quite magical under the dusky sky and a backdrop of tall, frosted trees. This set the tone for the range of planned activities. Children ‘journeyed’ round the frost-covered field, hunting for letters etched onto iridescent CDs, dangling from bushes and shrubs to spell out a themed word.
There was an opportunity to engage in an obstacle course which involved picking up a ‘gift’ (stone), dodging over, under and round various equipment before heading towards the starry display and depositing the treasure.
Crafting was also on offer. Air-dried clay stars, decorated with richly-coloured jewels and glistening gems proved a big attraction for small hands. For those keen to take on a trickier challenge – taking five short twigs and lashing them together with twine to create a star – the end result was delightful.
As dusk turned to darkness, the flames above the fire pits intensified and naturally drew the youngsters and adults alike. The chance to toast marshmallows on freshly peeled sticks was irresistible.
The pièce de résistance was, without doubt, star-gazing through the various telescopes set up in the far field, well away from any light pollution. Chris shared both his enthusiasm and expertise, enabling the children (and many adults too) to see the craters on the moon and the bands around Jupiter. It was a special and unique experience, and again, it brought the magi’s love and understanding of the stars into sharp focus. It was a revelation.
No church service in the Over Wyre Benefice ends without sharing food and fellowship! This event was no exception. Platefuls of jacket potatoes, beans and cheese were quickly devoured by the young people, grateful for some hot food on a bitterly cold night.
GO! God Outdoors.
Did the children meet God in the most natural of settings – in fields, under the stars? They absolutely did…in a similar way to those shepherds and wise men long, long ago!
