A team from the churches in Watchet and Williton came together with the chaplain and staff at Danesfield Middle School to lead two days of faith based activities and learning on the school playing field.
‘Faith and Festival’ was a new venture dreamed up by members of the school’s Ethos Group back in the autumn of 2023, and which finally came to fruition in the sunshine at the end of April 2024. All four year groups took part in activity-based sessions that ranged from a journey through the labyrinth, to learning a dance routine to the song Makanaka (‘God is Good’ in Shona). Around a firepit students discussed the environment with one another and talked about God’s amazing creation. They learnt about plastic pollution and explored how they personally can make a difference. The students also contributed prayers to a justice wall. Each year group ended their experience with a dance competition led by chaplain Patrick Weld and a live band.
Afterwards students at Danesfield shared what they'd enjoyed about the day, “What I liked about the faith festival was walking through the labyrinth because it was calming and made me reflect on what I like.”
“I liked the rubbish collecting. We had to run and collect it and put it in the net.” “The dancing was a lot of fun and I liked the smores!”
Local Vicar Revd Mark Phillips said, “It was wonderful to see such dedicated and passionate volunteers from our different denominations coming together to support the young people of our CofE school in the Magnificat Benefice of Watchet and Williton.
“Working together, we were able to deliver a joyful and fun-filled festival. One which, over the two days, enabled the students to learn about, reflect on, and perhaps journey deeper within, their relationship with God. I think it also emphasised to the students that the local Christians within their communities really care about them. In all it was a hugely worthwhile and truly blessed event.”
John Williscroft, RE Lead at Danesfield added, "The festival gave the children an opportunity to step away from their daily focuses and pressures and to focus on deeper spiritual questions while doing so in a fun and engaging atmosphere. Thanks again to all who supported our efforts!"