'We praised God for a fantastic afternoon' 

More than 150 people attended an international community event hosted by Oakwood Baptist Church, Southgate, north London.

The church has submitted the following report

Once our church service had finished on 28 June, we had refreshments followed by pizza in the church. Mandy James, our ‘Facilitator’ organised everyone into groups with a leader ensuring each group for the event had a good mix of people. 

One group was responsible for refreshments, one for tables and chairs, another for bunting, and the other for PA & gazebos, electrics and bouncy castle. Everyone got involved in setting up at the front of the church grounds, and at the end of the event in taking everything back into the church. We had bit of fun when one helper realised his car was blocked in the car park but this was quickly resolved with chair moving and much banter.

The North London Singers arrived and soon after so did the guests, including a good contingent from Suffolks Baptist Church (thank you Dave Nevitt).

At 2pm prompt Mandy introduced herself and the singers. We were then treated to some great music, community singing, cake and refreshments all in beautiful sunshine. Around 150 people were present and, because this was during the World Cup, copies of Goal of Life - the evangelism booklet from Hope Together about faith, football and the life of Jesus as told by Mark, were given out.

Some people joined us at the tables, some watched from over the front fence, and others walked slowly past, taking in the atmosphere of the church having fun in the community. 

A great sense of church teamwork, with some being brave enough to wear Mandy’s football themed hairbands. 

We praised God for a fantastic afternoon, a great occasion for the church to work together and a wonderful opportunity to witness to the local community. 

Oakwood Baptist Church is part of the Waltham Abbey small church hub.