Let there be light!

From laser quests to light trails, Elim churches are transforming Halloween into a bright opportunity to share hope and connect with their communities

Last year we ran our Bright Lights trail around the town and around 350 people from the church and community came along.

Every family arrives at LGCC to be given their welcome pack with everything they need – a map, clues, pencils, a torch etc. They watch a video that shares the theme, then they set off.

We have seven or eight clue stations at various places in the town and at each there are interactive activities to help people answer a quiz question. Each question then gives them the answer to the whole trail. Last year we had a poem written about creation and the children had to fill in the blanks as they went along. Each child was then presented with a book we had published, with the poem in it.

At the church we have inflatables, crafts, a barbecue and games and it’s an evening for the whole family.

Dani Johnston, LGCC, Letchworth

Our Limitless group held a Light Party with a laser-tagging competition.

They had a range of lights, lasers and a smoke machine in the main hall and worked in teams to conquer each other and get the flags. All this was followed by food. Our youth ministry is very much part of our church outreach. None of the young people have a faith in Jesus – yet. The team have a ‘God focus’ conversation each time they meet.

Rob Case, Acorn Community Church, Whitley Bay

At an evangelism conference we saw a company selling little boxes like the ones you get with McDonald’s Happy Meals. We bought some and for Halloween last year filled them with sweet treats, colouring pens and stickers, etc. Every time someone knocked at the door we gave them a box, introduced ourselves and explained about Beacon Church. It was a great way to meet the community.

We will definitely do it again this year but maybe go bigger – with our pop-up tent and making drinks on the green near our house. It’s about making the most of every opportunity!

Greg & Anthea Hayes, Beacon Church, Corby

For the past few years, over the Halloween weekend, we’ve held an event called CandyPalooza, which is a fun few hours where we turn our building into a games emporium.

Kids can come along, play some great games and win tons of sweets (something every parent wants just before their kids go to bed!).

It’s not only a great way to connect with families across our town, but if you’re ahead of the game with your Christmas programme it’s also a surefire way to invite people along to any events you’ve got taking place in December too.

Richard Vernon, Lakeside Church, Southport

This article first appeared in Direction Magazine. For further details, please click here.