Caz Gatehouse reflects on working in lockdown and planning the Light Party
Wow! The last update I wrote we had just gone into lockdown. How has that time gone for you? For me, although it does seem ages since I have seen you all, in many ways it feels like it has gone very fast. I seem to have kept busy.
Work, obviously, has been very different. My time has been taken up with writing materials to send out to families; emailing and writing letters; planning online Messy Church; filming and editing videos (I say editing, but what I do is very basic editing – Jez and Richard do the complicated bits!!); and having Zoom meetings and training sessions! Whilst my furlough weeks have been spent gardening, going for walks, and doing a few creative things (such as Bible journalling!), along with spending a bit more time with my parents. The time has seemed to fly by, but I know for many of you it has probably dragged on.
Looking ahead
Although we are going to continue with our online services, we are starting to plan for one or two ‘in person’ groups. I am hoping to have a children’s time this week – so by the time you read this it may have happened! With all the guidelines to follow, these may not happen every week, but we are certainly hoping to have them fairly regularly!
This term I would normally be planning for the Light Party, which sadly we cannot hold in church this year.
So instead, let’s all have a Light Party at Home!
Wouldn’t it be great if, as people walked around the streets on 31 October, they saw many homes lit up and displaying signs declaring ‘Jesus, the Light of the World!’? To help this happen, I am working on some packs that will include decorations ideas, games, and crafts, etc. We are also planning to do a video with our UV puppets that you will be able to access online and include in your party! So dig out your lights ready!!
Keep your eye out in the newsletter for updates, or contact me direct if you would like more information on what’s happening within the children and families’ work, or to be added to the mailing list for the ‘Family Time’ material.
Praying for God’s peace, protection and blessings on you all at this time.
Caz Gatehouse, children’s minister
