Churches set for record outreach during Games

Churches are pulling out all the stops in their outreach for the Olympic Games.

Across the UK, Christians are about to set their own record for the highest level of church involvement in the Olympics ever.

That's according to More Than Gold, the group coordinating church engagement in the Games.

Large screen festivals being hosted by churches are expected to draw up to half a million people.

Other planned community activities include family fundays, children’s clubs, street parties, quiz nights, community cafes, special church celebrations and Holiday at Home for those who are housebound .

More Than Gold chief executive David Willson said: "This is the largest ever inter-church response in Olympic history and it will show churches at their best – serving their communities and the thousands of international visitors."

To help people find out what is going on near them, More Than Gold has set up an interactive map showing over 600 events.

Churches have already had the opportunity to warm up with the nationwide Olympic torch relay, which saw Christians turn out to serve free refreshments on the streets and host special events.

Mr Willson added, "In the same way, they have come up with fantastic events during the Games themselves, to support their communities, reach out to visitors and those taking part in the Games. The response is inspirational."

More Than Gold is running an athlete family homestay programme, which is providing free accommodation to over 350 relatives of athletes who would otherwise be unable to afford the event.

Some 300 volunteer Games Pastors will also be on hand to help visitors navigate their way through the capital's main transport hubs.

The Salvation Army is leading teams who will distribute water to visitors and spectators.

Nearly 700 free performances will also take place during the Games. Musicians, dancers and visual artists will be putting on shows at 30 venues, including Southwark Cathedral, Westminster Abbey Green and Methodist Westminster Central Hall.

More Than Gold volunteers are coming not only from the UK but across 40 countries, as far afield as Australia and Jamaica.