Roly the Clown: Party date in Whaley Bridge

WHITSUNTIDE – once famous in Manchester and the region for Whit Walks –  was also school holidays, new clothes and maybe the first summer weather.  Whitsun – or more accurately Pentecost – is going to have a big impact in Whaley Bridge this year.

Churches Together, chaired by the Rev Michael Peat, is organising a Pentecost Party to celebrate the worldwide church’s birthday in the Uniting Church on Saturday 18 May.  It runs from 3pm-5.30pm.  All are welcome, young and old, for a party which will recall the Jubilee family celebration ‘do’ in Taxal and Fernilee School hall last year.

Highlight will be Roly Bain the Clown –  he calls himself  the Holy Fool. Last year he had the congregation in St John’s, Furness Vale, rocking with laughter during his appearance as part of the church’s centenary.  But behind Roly’s  slapstick, there were serious  messages for the family congregation. Roly is an ordained Anglican priest as well as a professional clown.

The Pentecost Party will include  a bouncy castle indoors, face painting, music and children’s games, cakes and sandwiches and a special Pentecost birthday cake.

Michael Peat says: “Roly’s clown act is widely renowned for sharing the Gospel message in a hugely entertaining way. Churches Together in Whaley Bridge hope that people of all ages will take this opportunity simply to join the celebration: the invitation is to everyone!”

Donations of food or help with costs will be welcome.  Further information about the Pentecost Party from Stella Whitehurst (01663 732 132) or Michael Peat (01663 732610).