Back to School and Back to Church
The beginning of September usually means one thing – children returning to school. It is traditionally marked by sunny weather, which happened this week on the first day of the new school term. Of course, returning to school can be exciting, but it can also be frightening, particularly for teens who've already experienced bullying, anxiety, stress, depression, or trauma. In addition to the nerve-wracking aspects of middle or high school — crushes, grades, cliques — students today are wrestling with intense experiences, including increased political and social tensions that disproportionately affect people from various backgrounds.
Similarly, people who haven't been to church in a while can often feel nervous about returning and need encouragement to choose a church to attend. Some may have had bad experiences, while others are unfamiliar with church.
Hence, Green Pastures in Ballymena is opening its doors – and extending a warm welcome to people of all backgrounds this September, offering them a wide selection of activities and giving them a perfect reason to return to church. A spokesperson for Green Pastures stated this week. "We had a fantastic summer at GP, especially the holding of Sonshine Week, which drew people from all over the town and further afield. Our numbers have swelled, and many people have recently been added to the church. Naturally, we want to build on that and take people to the next level, so we aim to get involved in many church events and even sampling our services, which have been so encouraging recently."
Children who are part of the GP Kids will be invited into Sunday services this September, while from the 4 September, the Dream Café returns. It takes place on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11 am to 2 pm. It is a great morning full of recreational activities and an opportunity to meet new friends. There's a delicious lunch served, too, and no one will go hungry at this open and friendly endeavour. Part of September's activities includes the midweek prayer meeting each Wednesday at 8 pm in the Youth Auditorium. It is an opportunity to meet with Jesus and others as prayer is offered for the church, community, and the nation. Many needs in church, the community, and even the country require prayer. Then, in mid-September, on the 12th is the return of Thrive, a ministry that takes place on the first Tuesday of each month at 2 pm. The group is for the over-sixties and is a place to fellowship and excel. Fast-forward to 22 September, Revolution Youth kicks off on Fridays from 7.30-10 pm. Catering to the lower sixth form, this activity is also open to young adults.
Another thing to look forward to this month is the Dream Team Vision Night. It begins on Sunday, September 24, at 6.30 pm. It is a special night for all dream team leaders and volunteers as the leadership shares vision and anoints people for a new season of ministry. So, if you are considering returning to church this September or need an assembly to attend, why not drop along to Green Pastures, where you will receive the warmest of welcomes? It could be the perfect place for you.
