Being a priest and a mum of three boys, the Vicar of Pembroke Dock, Rev. Nicky Skipworth, understands perhaps more than most parents how stressful coming to church could be.

But with the launch of the brand new monthly parish family communion service on Sunday, at the later time of 10.30 am in St. John's Church, a new approach is being taken, one where grown-ups, children and families of every kind are welcome and can experience Christian worship together in a fresh and enjoyable way.

The new act of worship is set to take place on the third Sunday of each month and will include wonderful music and lots of fun activities for children, all wrapped up in a service of Holy Communion.

Rev. Nicky Skipworth, who is a well known visitor to local schools, said: "We are so excited about this new service and hope that local people will come and have a look; it would be lovely to meet you and share this special time with you.

"We promise a warm and bright welcome to everyone, even if you have never been to a church service or it has been many years since you did, please bring any children who belong to your family; please come and be part of our church family.

"For more information, visit our Facebook page at The United Parish of Pembroke Dock."

Local mum and Messy churchgoer, Michele Wiggins, said: "With everyone leading such busy lives, how lovely that the parish has arranged a family communion service once a month.

"Nicky our vicar has kept all of the traditional parts of the service, but made it more children-friendly, so that they can enjoy it, too.

"Me and my family are really looking forward to going to St. John's on Sunday and meeting lots of other lovely families.

"Knowing Nicky, it's sure to be good fun, with helpful things like nappy changing mats and lots of toys to hand!"

The new service has received overwhelming support from St. John's Church Committee and the choir has been hard at work preparing for weeks.

The growth of the parish's Messy Church congregation, which meets in St. John's Community Hall on the first Saturday of the month, has been an important part of the journey.

Speaking to families who belong to Messy Church, Nicky heard how they would like to introduce their children to what is still regarded as 'real' church, but that St. John's usual service time of 9.30 am was too early when you have kids to get ready.

It was also clear that the parish family communion had to have a more informal, playful feel, where children could be children and adults would feel at ease.

Just look out for the big blue banner outside St John's Church.