Sunday dawned bright and full of excitement for the congregation of St. John's Church on Bush Street in Pembroke Dock.

Plans to launch their new act of worship, a family-friendly communion service on the third Sunday of each month, had been gathering pace since September.

Rev. Nicky Skipworth, the Vicar, said: "When I arrived that Sunday morning, people were wondering what response we would get, but it was far better than even our wildest prayers, with nearly 70 people - they just kept coming!

"Many of these had not joined us for worship before. The feedback has been so positive.

"One child was heard to say 'Are the bubbles I blew during the prayers really going to Jesus?'

"One of the Dads told me it had been 'very relaxing' and someone else said 'what a good blend of old and new'.

"May I thank everyone who came along and extend a warm invitation to other local people and families of any kind to come along to the next family communion service on Sunday, March 16, again at 10.30 am at St John's Church.

"Everyone of every generation will be made welcome and we hope you'll have a good time," added Rev. Skipworth.

Michele and Simon Wiggins, who came along with five of their children, aged between 14 years and 12 months, said: "What a beautiful service!

"It was worthwhile making the changes to see so many children with us."

The service, the first of its kind to launch in Pembroke Dock for some time, still included all the traditional bits of a communion service, but with each one given a fresh, engaging, even playful feel.

One older worshipper commented how good it was for 'children to be allowed to be children and make some noise!'

For example, in one part of the service known as the Peace, worshippers share a physical sign of the peace they receive from God through Jesus.

In the new service, the grown-ups still shared a handshake, but the children also had stickers to hand out to everyone and could also share the 'Messy Church High Five Peace'.

On hearing of the success of the new venture, the Bishop of St. David's Diocese, the Right Rev. Wyn Thomas, sent the following message- "What good news; I always support new initiatives of this kind."

For full details of all acts of worship and other events, you are invited to visit 'The United Parish of Pembroke Dock' on Facebook or ring the Vicar on 01646 687825.