Church turns Thursdays into ‘Pray & Play event’ at the park
Published 8:55 pm Saturday, March 26, 2022
- Kately Duhon sings, “I believe I can fly,” as she pushes the swing holding Claire Conrad and Edith Rion at the March 24 Westlake United Methodist Church Pray & Play at Pinederosa Park. (Rita LeBleu / American Press)
When Westlake United Methodist Church members decided to “share a fresh expression of God’s love available for all,” they headed to Pinederosa Park in Westlake.
“Everyone goes to Pinederosa Park,” said the Rev. Amy Duhon Castro, pastor. “We began showing up faithfully with our kiddos from 3:30 to 4:30 on Thursdays with an ice chest and a big tote bag of snacks to share with all. We call it Westlake United Methodist Church Pray & Play.”
Castro said members get to find out more about the city, ask people what they need, pray with kids, support play in a safe and beautiful park and feed people.
“The beauty and richness of what God is doing is amazing,” Castro said.
The program is not structured in any particular manner. Kids play. They grab snacks. At some point, there is prayer. Every few weeks, the treats are a notch above the norm, for instance cupcakes at one Pray & Play, and this past week, Kona Ice.
The church’s efforts are supported by the Westlake Recreation District 1, and they have partnered with a local elementary school and Rotary Club.
“We are invited to see where God takes this ministry and the family he is building here in a local park,” Castro said.
