Outer Limits, the benefice youth group, had an excellent time at the Worcester Diocese Far Forest Centre last weekend. Twenty of us took part in activities including a Lego-building competition, 'egg-bashing', wide game, film-making (with improvised scripts, props and acting), treasure hunt, water fight (with some 'serious' fire-power), a cycle ride in the Wyre Forest and barbecue as well as table tennis, pool, football, cricket and volleyball. A non-alcoholic cocktail bar was a new and popular feature, accompanied by bowls of floating candles for 'atmosphere'. In our study sessions we looked at the ministry of Jesus: His authoritative teaching, his amazing healing miracles, his power over the created world and the meaning of his death and resurrection.

On Sunday the group put together their own service of worship. We ended with an 'any questions?' session in which some very challenging questions raised by group members were discussed. Food was plentiful, thanks to parents who pre-cooked various dishes for us, supplemented by a well-stocked tuck shop.

On Sunday September 16, there will be a harvest festival songs of praise at 6.30pm in St Mary's Church. We shall sing harvest hymns both old and new, listen to Bible readings on the theme of harvest thanksgiving and reflect on the needs of the farming community and the countryside in general. St Mary's Church Choir will take part in the worship. The annual harvest supper will take place in Longdon Village Hall on Saturday, September 22 at 7 for 7.30pm.