Big crowds at local free community day

Large crowds came to enjoy a free hog roast, a children’s show, a prize stall and other attractions at the event, which was supported by the Aldhelm Mission Fund.

Team Rector Sarah Pix says:

"There was a prize stall stocked with over 300 gifts and anyone who won a game was able to make a choice of a gift. Other attractions were a surfboard simulator (the record score was a magnificent 39 seconds – it is harder than it looks!), football shoot out, hook a duck, catch the Dorset knob, coconut shy, hoopla and boules.

"Children were fully occupied with two performances of Duggie Dug Dug’s Bubble Show and a host of other activities. All ages enjoyed the free bookstall, a craft demonstration, ‘have a go at art’, photography display and music.

"Community links were strengthened with chance to talk to police and fire teams and learn more about the local Christians Against Poverty (CAP) centre, Community Connectors and the Church’s Mission projects.

"There was a prayer tent where visitors were offered prayer or could write down a prayer request and a team gave away free hugs!

"There was a wonderful, happy atmosphere across the site, and even the odd shower didn’t dampen spirits. The visiting pubic were staggered that they didn’t have to pay for anything at all! One of the wonderful things about the day was the way in which church members pulled together, everyone offering what they could to make the day a resounding success. It was absolutely a team effort!

"Throughout the day, visitors made use of the Welcome Desk to signup for the September Alpha Course, collect a free New Testament, and to take away information about the many activities that go on every week at St Mary’s.

"The day ended with a miracle! The Hog Roast was finished. It should have fed only 300 and had already provided 350 portions when the serving bowl was checked again and had somehow refilled! More rolls were bought and the Hog Roast provider believes that 420 portions were served in total! He was staggered! St Mary’s members demonstrated true hospitality, giving up their hog roast tokens for visitors who had missed out on one.

"We were so delighted to welcome so many to share the day with us! And because everything was free, no-one was excluded. God is so generous! He gives us so much, and we want to express His generosity to our community. We think the Community Fun Day was a great way to do that."