26 June 2025
St Margaret’s Church in Barking recently started a new after-school church service for Children and Families – Pizza & Praise.
Every Thursday, from 3.30- 5pm, local families come together for games, fellowship and of course, delicious pizza!
Around fifteen families attend each week from St Margaret’s Church of England Primary School. Sarah Twitchett, Youth and Children’s worker at St Margaret’s Church, tells us more about Pizza & Praise:
“We launched Pizza & Praise in March this year and it is a highlight in my week. When they first arrive, families can play a variety of games. We then head into church for a service.
“We follow a very simple short book of liturgy, which also includes songs of worship, a different Bible story each week, a craft and an interactive prayer activity. After the service, we come together for pizza.
“The idea first came from The Revd Jennie Adams - wife of the Vicar at St Margaret’s, The Revd Mark Adams - as she was inspired by similar services that had been successful at other churches.
“Twelve families came to our first session, and we have seen a steady increase since.
“Revd Mark and I visit St Margaret’s Primary School every week to take assembly, but by putting on Pizza & Praise we have been able to make stronger connections with families that come along and have an impact on their faith.”
This article has been taken from the latest edition of WePray, our quarterly prayer diary which brings together our Cycle of Prayer and stories from across our Diocese.
