There is a lot going on this September at All Saints Parish Church, St. Leonard's & St. Ives near Ringwood.

On Wednesday 14th September the church is hosting their first Messy Church starting at 3.45pm with crafts, stories, singing and then food.  “Messy Church is for children from 0-90,” says Rev. Judy Morton, “and it is an opportunity for children and their parent’s or carer’s to spend some quality time together and to learn more about the Christian faith whilst having fun.”  It is essential to register your child before the day and you can do this by calling the parish office on 01425 461512 or e mailing: allsaints1972@yahoo.co.uk

The Alpha course also starts the same night at 7.00pm and this 10 week course offers the opportunity to ask those major questions about life and Christianity in a safe environment.  The evening begins with a meal followed by a talk or DVD and then small group discussions and ends promptly at 9.30pm.  Some great new friendships were forged after the last course and to book a place on Alpha please contact  Rev. Judy Morton on 01425 483283 or revjude@btinternet.com or the course administrator, Mr. Stephen Gray on 01425 473727.

Finally, Sunday 25th September sees Back to Church Sunday celebrated at All Saints Parish Church, Ringwood Service Road, St. Leonard’s & St. Ives, BH24 2LS.  If you fancy returning to church or coming for the first time this will be the service for you.  Beginning at 10.00am this will be a “user friendly” service where you would be made most welcome (as everyone is weekly) and we look forward to meeting you.

Rev. Judy Morton has only been at All Saints for a year and has introduced Messy Church, Alpha and Back to Church Sunday as there is a need for church to reach out to all in our community.  “As someone who wouldn’t have darkened the doors of a church 11 years ago I do so empathise with those who find it difficult to walk into a church.  I’ve been there myself.  I want people to realise that church doesn’t have to be staid and boring and that it is a safe place to come and ask questions and share the joys and troubles of life no matter who we are,” says Judy.  “I haven’t got all the answers of course but I think it is important for people to journey and grow together.”

To find out more about what is going on at your local church contact the parish office on 01425 461512
e mail allsaints1972@yahoo.co.uk
visit www.allsaints-online.co.uk