Devon’s churches planning a warm welcome at Devon County Show
Devon’s church community is planning to show a warm welcome to visitors and exhibitors at the Devon County Show.
The church marquee at the Westpoint showground will feature a children’s activity area, youth zone and entertainment in the form of Oddments Theatre Company and the Salvation Army band among others.
Visitors will also be able to have a go at bell ringing and volunteers from churches around Devon will be serving free tea and coffee and home-made cakes.
There will be a prayer space with ministers and pastoral volunteers on hand for those who would like someone to talk to.
Each of the Diocese of Exeter’s three main Bishops will be visiting the showground on different days, the Bishop of Plymouth on Thursday 16 May, the Bishop of Crediton on Friday 17 May and the Bishop of Exeter on Saturday 20 May.
The County Show also has its own chaplain, this year it is Revd Sue Blade.
Revd Barry Dugmore, the Diocese of Exeter’s Mission Enabler, said: “Hospitality is at the heart of God’s kingdom.
“Some visitors to the show return to the church tent year after year.
“In the past we have prayed with people and I was once asked to carry out a wedding blessing!
“The local church is there in the midst of this great celebration of all the best aspects of Devon life. It is a privilege.”
The Devon Churches marquee will have a large cross outside it to make it easy to spot.