“This has to be the best Christian event I have ever been to in Pembrokeshire”. “I reckon this was the largest gathering of Christians in the county in the last 30 years”. “If things go on like this we will need a bigger castle in a couple of years”

These were but a few of the responses to our groundbreaking Picnic, Prayer and Praise in the Castle which saw more than 700 gathered for a time of praise and worship last Sunday,” said an enthused Rob James this week.

Baptist Pastor Rob was clearly delighted with both the size of the turnout and the response to an initiative he has longed to see taking place in Pembroke’s historic castle, and he was keen to express his thanks to all who contributed to the success of the venture, not least the trustees who kindly allowed free entry for the afternoon.

Trustee Roger Baker was equally excited. He said “When I first conceived the idea of Picnic, Prayer and Praise, I literally did not see how great the response actually would be. Obvious, it had an effect as over 700 Christians came to the event.

Churches and chapels from all the corners of Pembrokeshire and even several from as far away as Swansea and Cardiff.

It was a true celebration of faith fully supported by my fellow trustees, with a programme organised and directed by Pastor Rob James and assisted ably by so many individuals, congregations, Pembroke Messy Church and organisations such as the Street Pastors and St John Ambulance. Roll on next year.”

The afternoon’s praise opened with a session led by Pastor Mike Bave and his group from Bethel Baptist Church, Pembroke Dock, followed by a six-piece acapella group from Grace Church, Narberth. Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, Pembroke, then led the worship beautifully and the event was closed by the amazing Cath Woolridge and her fantastic band of musicians ‘Sound of Wales’.

Town Hall Messy Church, Pembroke, ensured that all the kids present had plenty to occupy their minds in the intervals and everyone agreed that God had done an amazing job in ensuring the weather was just what was needed.

“We are praying that this will be the first of many such celebrations,” said Rob James, who added: “We are thrilled that in the birthplace of the first Tudor King we were able to celebrate the King that even Henry 7th acknowledged as his Lord. Watch this space. This is just the beginning.”