29 October 2024
Light party draws over 140 children for a night of fun, faith, and community
This Thursday (31 October), across the country, many people will be celebrating Halloween, and take part in events which often celebrate things which are dark and scary. But for Elim Churches, this provides an exciting opportunity to engage their local communities, with events promoting the goodness of Jesus and His light, providing safe spaces for people of all ages to hear the Gospel, come into their church buildings, and build meaningful connections with neighbours who live within their local area.
One of those churches who have been running such events is Rediscover Church in Exeter.
On Friday 25 October, Rediscover Church transformed its venue into a vibrant hub of excitement and celebration for its annual Light Party. Over 140 kids gathered for an unforgettable evening, filled with team games, candy floss, cupcake decorating, popcorn, vibrant action songs, team challenges, and a variety of craft activities. The event provided a fun and faith-filled alternative to Halloween, focusing on the positive message of Jesus’ light, alongside the joy of the Christian faith, and what it means to be in a loving and supportive community.
The year’s event was more than double the amount of people who joined them last year, and comes off the back of their Summer Kids Holiday Club and other family outreach events, which have attracted families who are not regular church goers.
In a creative twist, on the night, children took part in a special lighthouse craft, using empty jars and battery-powered tea lights as a symbolic reminder that Jesus is the ultimate light in the world. This activity, along with many others, brought smiles to the children as they learned about hope and faith through fun and interactive ways.
Throughout the night, Rediscover Church’s dedicated team of volunteers shared messages of love and encouragement, including a clear Gospel presentation, and children were given neon wristbands to take home based around the 4 Points Gospel Ministry. The event offered children a unique opportunity to hear about Jesus’ love for them and left a lasting impression on everyone who attended.
"We are so grateful to everyone who helped make this Light Party such a success,” said Jason Ham, the Kids Coordinator. “It was a fantastic night, and we’re already counting down to next year! It was so wonderful to build connections with kids and their parents, and many are saying they’ll join us for our Sunday services too, which is fantastic”
“This Halloween, I’d encourage Elim Churches to run their own Light Party and similar events for people and kids in their community. We have the opportunity to shine the message of Jesus bright and make meaningful relationships. It could be the start of an exciting new adventure.”
If you are a church looking to run your own family mission events, Jason is available to chat more and his email is jason.ham@rediscoverchurch.com.