Five benefices working together for faith and the future
Children and Families
There are several children and family-focused initiatives across the deanery, including Kingsmere Community Ministry's Stay and Play and Akeman's Rise and Shine. Churches across the deanery are committed to supporting families and creating welcoming spaces where children can grow, play and encounter God.
One of the most significant ecumenical initiatives is Lighthouse Bicester, a non-residential week-long holiday club run by volunteers from local churches working together. Held annually at St Edburg's CE Lower School, Lighthouse offers children aged 5–11 a fun-filled week of teaching, sport, craft, drama and music, with a desire to help children from all backgrounds and abilities encounter God. Often described as "the best week of the summer holidays", Lighthouse is entirely volunteer-led, with young people aged 12 and over and adults serving in a variety of roles. Through this collaborative ministry, churches across Bicester demonstrate their shared commitment to serving children and families within the wider community.
For more information about Lighthouse Bicester, volunteering opportunities or ways to support the ministry, please visit the Lighthouse Bicester website.
https://www.lighthousecentral.org/our-lighthouses/lighthouse-bicester
Kingsmere Community Ministry Stay and Play
When: Every Friday during term time
Time: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Where: Kingsmere Community Centre
Cost: £1.50 per child
Kingsmere Community Ministry Stay and Play is a wonderful children’s group suitable for ages from birth until school age. It runs every Friday during the school term from 9:30 am until 11:30 am. During these two hours, children are free to explore different play areas, including a craft table, books, cars, blocks, a toy kitchen, and dinosaurs. There is also an area for pre-walkers, which includes a variety of sensory toys. Children are offered a snack, and parents can enjoy hot drinks and biscuits. The session concludes with singing nursery rhymes accompanied by toy musical instruments. This session is run by a group of friendly volunteers who make everyone feel welcome. The cost is £1.50 per child. For more information check Facebook page.