Laughter and learning at Connor’s Big Weekend

Monday November 18th 2019

The Bishop of Connor’s Commissary, Archdeacon Stephen McBride, right, with members of the Chapter of St Saviour, Lisburn Cathedral; Connor Children’s Project Development Officer Jill Hamilton, and special guests at the Big Family Fiesta in Ballymena on November 16.

There was plenty of fun, laughter and learning in St Patrick’s, Ballymena, over the course of Connor’s Big Weekend on November 16 and 17.

On the Saturday afternoon, families with young children came together for the Big Family Fiesta, while the following afternoon, youth and children’s leaders attended Snapshot Sunday.

The weekend’s activities were organised by Lisburn Cathedral Chapter, working in partnership with Connor Youth and Children’s Development Officers, Christina Baillie and Jill Hamilton.

Special guests were storyteller Bob Hartman, the Inspire Band from London, the ever-popular Play it by Ear drama team, and magician Magic G.

On Saturday afternooon, Inspire led a family-friendly concert, with upbeat praise songs and a theme of celebration. They were joined by Bob Hartman who shared stories and songs from his latest books.

Play it by Ear wooed the children, who were also fascinated by the tricks performed by Magic G! The event ran from 2pm-4pm with a break for refreshments, and a fantastic time was had by all, young and not so young!

Snapshot Sunday comprised a series of informal workshops led by Bob Hartman, Play It By Ear and Inspire, who all shared a variety of innovative ways to communicate the Bible and worship with children and all-age audiences.

Catherine Little and Paul Coulter came along to share their expertise with youth leaders.

The weekend was rounded off with an All-Age Service on Sunday evening.