God and the Big Bang

Sophie Whitmarsh reflects upon this year’s Ascension Day Festival held at St Davids Cathedral.

What began as a deanery event some years ago has turned into a full-blown diocesan children’s event every year. The Ascension Day Festival which is normally held on Ascension Day provides a great opportunity for primary schools to bring a group of children to experience a variety of activities and worship in our great cathedral. This year was no different, with five schools attending, and over 300 children.

God and the Big Bang took part, with science experiments asking big questions, introducing the children to the idea that both Science and Faith can easily work alongside each other. We explored the themes of Salt & Light, and how we can be Salt & Light in the world, through our humility, our forgiveness, through our worship and through service.

In addition to lots of science this year, we also had many crafts and activities to further explore the themes. One of these was about how we have an impact on the world and on each other, and how we must take care of all that we have. As a reflection of that, we made holy, sacred things by using recycled materials. We also spoke about how it takes courage to speak about our faith, looking at others who have been brave and courageous, including Jesus of course, and made pictures of each of us being courageous. Just a few of the things we did to explore being Salt & Light.

Overall, the day was full of joy. We finished with worship, hearing the story of the Good Samaritan, singing and dancing, praying, and laughing. It was a great joy and privilege to have been part of the day. As always, I am ever grateful for the support I receive from many across the diocese who help me make this happen.