Methodists look forward to Olympics engagement

The Methodist Church is encouraging people to get involved in the Olympic and Paralympic celebrations as the 100-day countdown to the Games begins today.

One Methodist church in Cornwall is in full Olympic spirit already with plans for a nationwide Praise Bus to tour the country ahead of the official Olympic torch procession.

Escalls Methodist Chapel is organising an open-topped double decker bus that will carry a band of musicians all the way from Lands End on 19 May to the Olympic Stadium 70 days later.

Christine Bonfield, from Escalls Methodist Chapel near Land's End, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for people to sing their faith. We still need musicians from across the country to get involved.”

Ish Lennox, Olympic and Paralympic Coordinator for the Methodist Church, said: “Today is a really exciting day. The 2012 Games coming to our nation is a great opportunity for the Church to move beyond its walls and engage with the local community.

"Every church can do something, the Methodist Church is working with More Than Gold to make sure that churches are resourced and equipped for this historical moment.”

The Methodist Church is keen for young and old to get involved with the Games. It has produced a resource to help churches offer people over the age of 65 the chance to enjoy a holiday experience within their own local community and engage with the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

It is also encouraging people to offer up hospitality to an athlete's family in their own home.