A visit to church by a school group could include a number of different activities and would be adaptable, depending upon the needs and the focus of the school.

The following could be included:

• an acknowledgment at the very beginning of those children who go to a church and those who go to other holy places to worship God in their own particular tradition. Explanation as to why we do not cover our heads or take off our shoes in church;

• a time to simply look and reflect on all that can be seen in the church and an exercise using the senses to explore what is there;

• a walk around to see items in more detail, including a view from the balcony;

• a talk by the minister to explain what the various items of church furniture are and how they are used eg font, communion table and rail, Bibles, hymn books;

• a talk about what happens in the church and, if time permits, acting out a baptism or a wedding, with full class participation if children and staff are willing;

• a chance to ask questions about what has been said or seen, or any thing else to do with the church, faith, belief etc; and

• anything else that the school might find useful or informative, linked to topic work or curriculum issues in the class and school.

The baby (Emma Jane) and parents following a baptism in the church

For more information about Methodism locally, or Gantshill Methodist Church, contact:
Rev'd Keith R Underhill
Telephone: (020) 8550 2460
e-mail: lizandkeith@tinyworld.co.uk