SOMEONE driving past Crediton Methodist Church recently, saw the security fencing outside and asked me if the church had closed.

“No, definitely not, quite the reverse”, was my immediate reply. “Refurbishment is taking place because it’s the church’s aim and vision to move forward in the 21st century.”

The banner outside explains that all the usual activities are still happening, but in the lower ground floor area with access from the side door adjacent to the car park.

Sunday church services are continuing as usual but are held in the downstairs hall.

Despite the upheaval, comments from members of the congregation have been very positive.

One person said: “I found myself sitting next to and getting to know someone that I had hardly ever spoken to previously, mainly because she used to sit at one side of the church, I used to sit on the opposite side and the pews made it difficult for us to get together!”

The work being carried out includes redecoration of the church building, new heating and lighting, installation of an audio-visual system plus a new kitchen.

A ramp outside will provide easier access and there will be new gates and landscaping.

As a church we hope this will help us achieve the vision summed up in our strapline “Working out God’s love in Crediton”.

One regular activity continuing as usual is “The Ark”, our Messy Church held on the second Saturday afternoon of each month.

This month there was a fishy theme, based around the Bible story where Jesus called his first disciples who were fishermen.

The children enjoyed acting out the story, rowing on big beanbags as improvised boats, throwing nets overboard and catching remarkably life-like silver fish.

A choice of craft activities continued the theme including making 3D funky paper fish, stained glass windows with a fish centre, pictures incorporating “foily” fish and a big mural of fish patterns using old bubble wrap.

At the end of the session a delicious meal was enjoyed by all and chairs were then put out ready for Sunday’s service in its temporary location.

Hilary Everitt