'Summer Connect' proves a winner in Birmingham

All hands on deck!

The sun may have struggled to break through the August skies but that didn't deter the 70 guests and 30 team members who made their way into the warm welcome of 'Summer Connect', an event hosted by Catriona Foster at St John’s Church, Harborne, Birmingham.

Pastor for Older People, Catriona Foster and volunteer Jane Butcher, Advocate lead at BRF

Based on the model used by Pippa Cramer at Claygate, Surrey, the idea was to provide an opportunity for people to connect with one another during the quieter summer months. Many who attended don’t have any current church connection while others regularly attend the midweek service.

With guests aged 70+ years, there was plenty for people for all ages and ranges of mobility.

In true St John’s style, the day began with excellent homemade cakes with the remainder of the morning spent selecting from a variety of activities including an armchair exercise class, a relaxing hand massage, a chance to play an old fashioned handmade bagatelle, carpet putting, and a nerf gun tower tumble (a more recent addition to the world of indoor games!).

Alongside, there was a tech team on hand to help with smartphones and iPads, a quiz table, a chat table, and a reflection and prayer tent for those looking for some space or additional pastoral support.

A brief 'thought for the day' considering the season of life we might find ourselves in, preceded an excellent sandwich and fruit lunch, before the afternoon featured some interesting talks. All left for home later, having thoroughly enjoyed the day.

---