Step into something new with Paddleboard Church in Maidstone

The Salvation Army in Maidstone is making waves in the town this summer with the return of Paddleboard Church, a unique way to gather, worship and connect with one another.

The creative ministry combines faith, fellowship and fun and takes place on the third Sunday of each summer month from 4pm to 6pm at Mote Park Watersports Centre. The next session will be held on Sunday 17 August with another date planned for September.

Lieutenants Dave and Beth Perkins lead The Salvation Army in Maidstone. Dave said they were keen to support the idea which came from church member Hazell Ball and was launched during summer 2023.

Dave added: “This fun activity helps us to bring the community together in a different way to what you would usually expect from a church.  Paddleboarding may not be as daunting as coming to church on a Sunday for some. It’s relaxed, joyful and a fresh way to connect with God whether you are stepping onto a board for the first time or the 50th.”

Sessions begin with an opening bible message and prayer before those attending take to paddleboards, kayaks, rowing boats or pedalos. Attendees can also bring a picnic and Dave said the inclusive gathering welcomes all levels of faith and water confidence.

He explained: “This is a celebration of community, creation and Christ. It breaks down walls between our church, faith and fun and worship and watersports. This is an opportunity for people in Maidstone and beyond to step out with us, explore their faith and experience church in a different new setting. It’s also about strengthening relationships and getting to know new people. 

“Projects like this show we are flexible and adaptable and there are different ways for The Salvation Army to interact with the community. There is a place for more formal church services but people have preconceived ideas about what church is like which we hope initiatives like Paddleboard church will dispel. There’s a real feeling of excitement with Paddleboard Church and we are keen as leaders to help people with ideas to make them flourish. This could also encourage other things.”

Dave has also tried his hand at paddleboarding. which entails moving a large paddle through water while balancing on a flat, floating contraption that is as big as a surfboard.

He said: “Mote Park has a very big lake which is choppy and more challenging. I started on my knees then got up to balance before I got too confident!”

Paddleboard Church will take place on 17 August and 20 September between 4pm and 6pm at Mote Park Watersports Centre – all are welcome to attend for £4. The Salvation Army in Maidstone also runs a number of other activities throughout the week including a Toddler Group during term-time and a coffee and craft morning on a Wednesday.

For more information, go to https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/maidstone or call 01622 681808