Church prepares to celebrate 350th anniversary

8:25am Friday 4th July 2008

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ONE of the oldest congregational churches in Gloucestershire is gearing up to celebrate its 350th anniversary.

Kingswood Congregational Church is planning a range of events to celebrate the achievement.

On Saturday, July 26 Christian songwriter Noel Richards and his band are visiting the church to provide a worship seminar and evening concert.

On Sunday, July 27, a Picnic with the Puppets, staged by the Signpost Puppet Theatre, will take place outside the Abbey Gateway and will be followed by a family picnic and barbecue.

In addition a flower festival and exhibition of photographs celebrating the milestone is to be held over the August bank holiday weekend.

Matt Kirby, worship leader, said: "2008 marks an important milestone in the church's history, and we are keen to celebrate the work of the church, both past and present, and also look forward to making a positive impact in the future.

"We are a family-orientated church, with a growing membership. Our major strength is having such a diverse range of weekly activities; there really is something for everyone."

A 350th anniversary celebration DVD will also be distributed to households within the village. Presented by the BBC's Ali Vowles, the film will cover some of the history of the church and also introduce the present-day activities.

Tickets for the Noel Richards worship seminar and concert are available by calling Tory on 07530 331974.