Connecting with God’s creation is key to Wild Worship sessions happening in the grounds of Tewkesbury Abbey.
Once a month, these gatherings swap pews for the open air, inviting people of all ages to come and give thanks for the beauty of creation. They are short and informal and intend to be intergenerational – specially designed for families with busy, energetic children.
Each service is shaped by the season and filled with stories, songs and interactive prayer. Recent gatherings have included building a ‘minibeast monastery’, making simple telescopes to look at the moon, crafting Advent wreaths, and creating candles at Candlemas. There is a strong emphasis on noticing the natural world, whether searching for signs of the Nativity in nature, gathering materials for treasure sticks, or spotting the first snowdrops of the year.
A much-loved part of each gathering is the chance to share food around a small campfire at the end of the service, with treats such as Babybel cheese, panettone, and cinnamon-coated apples.
The Revd Diane Clutterbuck, a member of the Tewkesbury Abbey Ministry Team and one of the leaders of Wild Worship, said: “This is a great service for children who love being outdoors, putting on wellies and waterproofs, and splashing about in the mud. My grandchildren absolutely love it. When that sense of adventure is combined with faith, it really resonates. Being outside, exposed to the elements, brings a sense of excitement and freedom that you don’t find indoors.”
Wild Worship is taking place on the first Sunday of each month from May to July, with the next one taking place on Sunday 3 May from 3pm to 4pm.
“In May, we’ll be celebrating May Day and the first signs of summer. We will be making May crowns, eating snacks around the campfire, and creating a quiet space where attendees can tie ribbons and prayers to a tree, reflecting the tradition of a Maypole,” Diane said.
It’s open to everyone, whether you are part of a church or not. Find out more →
News Hub
