Splashes of Creativity: Recap of the Messy Arts Picnic on Our Saint Barnabas Courtyard

Last Sunday, March 17, was not your typical afternoon at Saint Barnabas Courtyard. Instead, it transformed into a vibrant canvas of creativity and laughter as families and friends gathered for out Messy Arts + Crafts Picnic. Following the 10:15 am service, the courtyard came alive with happy faces, with excitement and anticipation for what promised to be a messy and colorful event.

The day was perfect! Kids received free T-shirts designed by our children’s minister Sarah Petersen, and adults rolled up their sleeves and embraced the spirit of messy fun. The energy was contagious, as participants dove into an array of artistic endeavors, from catapult painting to gelatin swamp adventures. With each stroke of paint and squish of play dough, imaginations soared and masterpieces began to take shape.

One of the highlights we all look forward is the opportunity to “Paint the Staff.” Laughter echoed as participants gleefully showered Rev. Robert, Rev. Anne, Deacon Pam, Deacon Susie, and the children and youth Ministers, Sarah Petersen and Kate Fimbres, with vibrant colored powder. It was a moment of playful interaction that truly embodied the spirit of community, connection, and togetherness.

But the creativity didn’t stop there. From face painting to bubble wrap roller painting, there was no shortage of activities to explore. New additions to this year’s lineup, such as confetti letters and rubber band painting, added an extra dose of excitement and novelty to the festivities.

Of course, no picnic would be complete without delicious food to fuel the fun. The grilled hot-dogs and burgers were outstanding! Families gathered around picnic tables enjoying their lunch as they shared stories of their artistic creations. The sense of community was present; strangers became friends and memories were made amidst the colorful chaos.

As our event drew to a close, participants left with smiles on their faces and hearts full of joy. The Messy Arts Picnic was a resounding success – bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds in a celebration of creativity and community. And while the paint may have washed away and the bubbles may have popped, the memories of this festive family event will linger on, serving as a reminder of the magic that happens when we come together to make a mess and make memories.

For those who missed out on this year’s festivities, fear not! Plans are already underway for next year’s Messy Arts Picnic, promising even more creative adventures and messy fun. So be on the look out for our event next year and mark your calendars for our EASTER events coming up. We will have another opportunity to see our courtyard grass filled with color, get your baskets ready for our Easter Egg Hunt, Easter Sunday at 10am and prepare to unleash your inner artist as we will have crafts before the hunt. But don’t worry – no messy art on those Easter Sunday clothes!

See pictures from this year fun!

Here are a few highlights from the event. (A big thank you to Scott Williams for these images below)