A VERY different kind of worship will take place near Penrith this weekend.

On Sunday, Rheged will be hosting its second ever ‘Messy Church’ day, with activities, crafts, music and workshops all on offer.

Messy Church, which took over Rheged for the first time last year, is an initiative found across the world designed to bring church worship to a new audience.

Taking place between 11am and 3pm, Sunday’s Messy Church day is being overseen by Sarah Hulme, part of the Cumbrian evangelism group God For All.

Sarah is looking forward to repeating last year’s success at Rheged this time around.

“The event is based around the circus big top and will give everyone the opportunity to celebrate their unique gifts and talents,” said Sarah.

“It’s our prayer that by taking part in the activities on offer, people will see it is God’s plan that we’re all designed to shine.

“There’ll be loads of different workshops and people can book places online now so they can plan their day ahead of time, and it’s all for free.

“We’re thrilled that Rheged has agreed to host this Messy Church for a second year running and can’t thank the team there enough for the support they’ve provided.”

Rt. Reverend James Newcome, the Bishop of Carlisle will be the event’s special guest, and is looking forward to returning for a second time.

“Last year’s event was one which created a real buzz of excitement,” he said.

“There was plenty of laughter, fun and celebration and I’m thrilled to be going back again for more.

“I hold this event up to God as an opportunity to reach new people in new ways and grow his Kingdom here in Cumbria and beyond.”

Visitors on the day can get involved in 15 minute workshops on a range of activities, including street dance, circus skills, creating with wood and vocal skills.

More than 2,000 people came along to last year’s Messy Church event at Rheged, making it one of the biggest events of its kind ever to be staged in the UK.

It attracted leaders from a range of denominations, from the Church of England, to the Salvation Army.

To book a workshop slot visit https://www.rheged.com/event/big-top-party-messy-rheged/.