GALLERY: Fishy business at messy play day

Families joined in a host of crafts at Messy February, held at Southwick Methodist Church, in Manor Hall Road.

Junk modelling was used to explore how Jesus taught his disciples to become ‘fishers of men’, and so spread the good news of his coming.

Organiser Yvonne Yates said they made fishing games and pictures, tucked into fish shapes and ocean jelly, played musical fishy statues and sent prayers up in nets.

“We had so much fun spending time together, creating, making, celebrating, eating and learning about Jesus,” she added.

Messy Church, a fresh expression of church, opened in Portsmouth just under ten years ago, with the aim of allowing young families to encounter church in a new way.

Messy Churches Together in Southwick was formed in September last year, involving helpers and visitors from churches in and around the town.

Yvonne said they were pleased to welcome Martin Payne from Messy Church’s Bible Reading Fellowship, who travelled down from London to visit the Southwick group on Saturday.

She added: “Messy Church is exactly what it says on the tin. It’s church and yes, it’s very messy.

“Young families are invited to visit for a time of fellowship involving Messy crafts and games, a Messy celebration including a Bible story and worship songs, all followed by a simple meal.”

The next event will be Messy Nearly Easter, at Southwick Methodist Church, Manor Hall Road, Southwick, on March 15, 3pm to 5.30pm. Entry is free and no booking is necessary but children must be accompanied by an adult.