Messy Church is Church, but maybe not as you know it.
It follows the national Messy Church pattern of creativity, celebration and hospitality for all ages, with Jesus at the heart of everything we do.
It gives busy families the chance to get together, to be a part of their local Church, and to find out about God in a fun way.
We have a wide variety of themed, fun crafts and activities, which include using different media and always making something to eat, filling the after-school snack gap!
Everyone joins in a joyful celebration in the church, so expect the same buzz here!
We finish with a meal together.
We welcome children with their adults, who can work alongside their children on the themed crafts and enjoy fellowship with other families.
Messy Church takes place on the first Wednesday of every month, except in August. To help the catering team, we ask families to email messychurch@stjamesexeter.org to confirm their attendance by the previous Monday.
At St James’ we:
- Open the hall doors at 3.30 pm for crafts and hands-on activities.
- Move into the church around 4.30 pm for the celebration, a short story, songs and prayers.
- Finish with a meal back in the hall at 5.00 pm — no charge, but donations are welcome.
Safeguarding and Accessibility
All Messy Church leaders have undertaken safeguarding training under the Church of England’s safeguarding scheme as well as all other appropriate checks.
The church is accessible, with a hearing loop and large-print service sheets. Children with additional needs are welcome; just let us know how we can support them best.
Join the Team at St James'
Running Messy Church is a team effort. We need storytellers, craft-lovers, greeters, and people willing to tackle the washing-up.
If you can spare a Wednesday afternoon, we’d love your help. Just one extra pair of hands can make all the difference. Please contact messychurch@stjamesexeter.org for more information.
Children's Groups on Sundays
Interested in joining us for worship more regularly? We'd love to see you and your family on a Sunday morning.
At our 10.00 am services, children can take part in our JAM (Jesus and Me) or 11-Ups groups.
Everybody, of any age, is welcome at St James'.
The Messy Church® name and logo are registered trademarks of Bible Reading Fellowship, a charity (233280) and company limited by guarantee (301324), registered in England and Wales.