Welly Church at St Kenelm, Clifton on Teme

A new half-hour monthly act of worship is taking place at St Kenelm’s Church in Clifton-on-Teme, with people of all ages gathering outside for Welly Church!

Launched in April with a session on ‘Experience Easter’, Welly Church is an informal opportunity for people to explore faith and hear where God is at work through stories, crafts and engagement with the natural world. The act of worship lasts just half an hour and often involves some form of treasure hunt around the churchyard, alongside a dramatized bible story, prayer and a hands-on activity.

Jen Jones, Assistant Curate in the Teme Valley South benefice helps to lead Welly Church with a small group of lay volunteers. She said: “We wanted to create something simple which we could invite baptism families and wedding couples as well as build links with the local school. Welly Church aims to be intergenerational and light touch, which still giving people the opportunity to hear God’s word and explore faith for themselves. We are currently planning to run it through the summer months until October but will definitely carry on through the Winter if people want us to.”

The church applied for a grant from the Kingdom People Fund which allowed them to buy a gazebo, table and resources to get started. Many of the team are trained in ‘Open the Book’, which they take into the school as well as using the storytelling techniques at Welly Church. There is also an opportunity to share refreshments together at the end of each session.

Kiru brings her 9-year-old daughter to Welly Church. She said: “We recently moved into the village, spotted a flyer and came along to see what it was all about. We’re not regular churchgoers but really enjoyed the first session so have kept coming. Welly Church is friendly and easy for children to understand, and it is also entertaining for adults too!”

Jason brought his 7-year-old twins to Welly Church for the first time. He said: “I was looking for different things for my son to get involved with. He wasn’t sure about joining in initially but has really enjoyed it! It is informative and educational and just the right length. Revd Jen was great with the kids, and I think I’ve also enjoyed it as much as them!”

Jen continued: “We are currently trying lots of different things to strengthen our link with the school and to discover what works best for people. It’s difficult to know the best time and day to run things, but Welly Church seems to be working at the moment. Next month we’re going to be toasting marshmallows and also have plans to celebrate harvest.”

Welly Church runs monthly on Saturday at 4pm. St Kenelm’s Church are also planning to start a ‘Praise 4 All’ service at 10am on the third Sunday of each month to which all are welcome.