Nourishing the Body and Soul: Holiday Clubs Across Mission Communities in Cumbria

Over the summer, holiday clubs sprang to life across Cumbria’s Mission Communities, providing children with fun-filled activities, memorable experiences, and, in Carlisle, thousands of meals for local families. From craft projects and games to team-building activities and Bible stories, these clubs are a wonderful example of what happens when the church steps up to serve its community. 

One of the standout efforts this summer came from St Barnabas Church in Raffles and St Lukes Church in Morton, both working in partnership with The Lookout Community Hub. Together, they ran a series of activities across 16 days, offering everything from bouncy castles and discos to football sessions and even trips to theme parks and the beach. But their impact went beyond just fun. The volunteer team, serving in the name of Jesus, provided an astounding 2,662 meals to local children and families. These meals weren’t just about filling bellies; they represented a tangible expression of love and care, a reminder of the church’s mission to serve others. 

Carlisle’s example of combining nourishment with fun activities truly stands out. By offering meals alongside their holiday club activities, they not only engaged children with exciting opportunities but also met an essential need in their community. This approach allowed families to take part in these days of joy without worrying about what their children would eat, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone could belong. 

Across Cumbria, other Mission Communities ran their own unique and creative clubs. At Kendal Parish Church, their holiday club, based on Scripture Union’s “Wonder Zone,” gave children the opportunity to marvel at God’s creation. They transformed their space into areas for group work, prayer, and meals, with activities ranging from crafting goody bags and bead keychains to creating edible prodigal son scenes. It was a wonderful experience for all who attended. 

In Greystoke, the church launched its first holiday club, engaging 22 children with science experiments, songs, and dramatic Bible stories. The highlight was a “mad professor” who brought the gospel to life in a fun, unforgettable way. Over in Kirkby Thore and Temple Sowerby, the churches united to host the “Restoration Station” holiday club, filled with hands-on activities like crafting wooden hammers and metalwork, making it a noisy, joyful few days. 

The success of these holiday clubs didn’t come without challenges. Many teams had to navigate how to advertise effectively, particularly using social media, to increase participation. Yet, through perseverance and creativity, each community reached families that might not have otherwise engaged with the church. 

Building Connections and a Younger Congregation 

One of the key benefits of holiday clubs is how they help churches develop a younger congregation. By offering activities for children, these clubs not only serve the immediate needs of young people but also create lasting connections with their families. Many parents and carers who may not regularly attend church see the holiday club as a safe and welcoming environment for their children, often leading to a greater involvement in church life. This is especially valuable in growing mission communities, where linking with younger families can breathe new life into congregations. 

In addition to the fun, food, and fellowship, holiday clubs offer a bridge between the church and the next generation. They plant seeds of faith in young hearts while drawing parents into the mission of the church, fostering relationships that can continue long after the summer ends. 

Could Your Church Host a Holiday Club? 

Could we do something like this in our own Mission Community? The answer is a resounding yes! With some thoughtful planning, teamwork, and prayer, you could start your own holiday club to reach children and families in your area. 

It’s not just about organising fun activities (though that’s certainly important); it’s about connecting with people, serving them, and showing Christ’s love in a way that resonates with the community. Whether it’s providing activities, running games, or leading worship, every small act of service can leave a lasting impact. And don’t be intimidated by challenges—like those before you, finding new ways to promote and build excitement, especially through social media, can help spread the word and increase involvement. 

This summer has shown that holiday clubs are a fantastic way for churches to engage, serve, and grow.