An annual highlight for most Cantabrians is Show Day but for members of the Banks Peninsula Presbyterian Parish, their Family Weekend may become similarly memorable.

The church's fun weekend saw all generations unite together to invigorate their faith community with music, puppets, food and fellowship.

Parish minister Rev Aubrey Stevenson says the idea for the weekend started with the availability of the Knox Rangiora Puppeteers 'Four Fingers For God' along with the celebration of a birthday for the church's Mainly Music' group of 0-5 year olds. The party was held on Saturday morning whilst in the evening the youth group had a sausage sizzle and learnt how to make and operate broomstick puppets.

The puppets were made using foam rubber to hold the features. A mixture of age groups made the puppets together and then dramatized the story of Jonah for Sunday's Service.

Aubrey says the event may be repeated, possibly involving a 'kite-flying' theme, literally and metaphorically as people are encouraged to enthusiastically fly their own ideas.

The Banks Peninsula parish has good relations with Catholic, Anglican, Seventh Day Adventist and New Life members.

Aubrey says he rejoices in the willingness of so many people in the community to join in the event, reflecting how people see the inclusive embrace of God's family.

"It's just a great group of people to work with," Aubrey says, "and it demonstrates God's family reaching out to make the circle wider."