Messy Church

Messy Church Canada supports local congregations in launching and sustaining monthly intergenerational worship gatherings. These gatherings include games, crafts, storytelling, songs, prayer, and shared meals. With flexibility for in-person events, Zoom gatherings, or take-home kits, Messy Church reaches families who might never walk into a sanctuary. It operates as a congregation in its own right, not just a pipeline to Sunday morning worship. The free online training course offers practical and theological guidance on discipleship, evangelism, and leading a Messy Church. Churches can also connect with regional coordinators and explore Canadian editions of Messy Church books. The initiative is ecumenical and suitable for churches of all sizes and styles.

What you’ll find on their website:

• A free self-paced online course with certificate on Messy Church leadership and theology

• Downloadable start-up materials and books tailored for Canadian churches

• Access to a national network and regional support team

• Stories, videos, and tools for building community through fun, faith-filled events

• Support for both in-person and remote (Zoom/bag) models

Try this: Host your first Messy Church as a seasonal event—maybe during Advent or Easter—and build from there. Use the starter books and course to form a small team of leaders. Try the in-a-bag model if in-person gatherings are a challenge. Focus on fun, food, and storytelling to make space for real connection and faith exploration

Main link: messychurch.ca