Social Gatherings at SumRed

One of the easiest ways to get connected at church is simply to spend time with people. Throughout the year we host a variety of relaxed social gatherings where people can meet others, build friendships, and enjoy being part of the community.

These events are informal and welcoming. Some people come along with friends, while others arrive on their own and quickly find themselves in conversation. Whether you are new to the church, new to the area, or simply looking for a friendly community in Christchurch, these gatherings are an easy way to connect.

Our social gatherings range from weekly creative groups to monthly meet-ups and special events during the year. Everyone is welcome, and you do not need to attend our church regularly to come along.

Community Events

Light Party

A family-friendly alternative to Halloween

Each year we host a Light Party for children and families from the church and wider community. It is a fun evening filled with games, music, activities, and plenty of treats.

The event is designed to be a joyful and welcoming celebration for kids, with creative costumes, prizes, and lots of laughter. It has become a highlight for many local families and a great opportunity for the community to come together in a positive and safe environment.

International Buy a Priest a Beer Day

Community BBQ and craft beer evening

Every year we mark International Buy a Priest a Beer Day with a relaxed community BBQ. People are invited to bring along their favourite brew to share, and the evening includes food, conversation, and a few fun spot prizes.

There are usually prizes for things like the most interesting beer, best themed brew, or most creative contribution, making it a light-hearted and memorable gathering. It is a great opportunity to meet people, enjoy good food, and spend time together in a relaxed atmosphere.

Church Gatherings

Create & Connect

Create & Connect is a weekly art and craft gathering where people come together to work on creative projects while enjoying good conversation and a cup of tea or coffee.

You can bring along something you are already working on, or simply come to learn something new. It is a relaxed and friendly environment where creativity and community come together.

The group meets on Thursdays at St Andrews from 10am until midday.

Club Redcliffs

Club Redcliffs is a relaxed monthly social evening held at the Redcliffs RSA. It is a simple, friendly gathering where people from church and the wider community can enjoy a drink, share conversation, and spend time getting to know one another.

Some people come with friends while others arrive on their own and quickly find themselves chatting around the table. It is an easy and welcoming space to connect with others.

Annual Church Camp

Our church camp is a highlight of the year and a great opportunity to spend extended time together as a church community.

Over a weekend we share meals, enjoy fun activities, and take time to grow in faith together. Church camp is suitable for individuals, couples, and families, and is always a memorable time of connection and encouragement.

Ladies Inspire

Ladies Inspire meets at the end of each term and provides an encouraging and welcoming space for women to gather.

Each evening features a guest speaker who shares her personal testimony, along with wisdom and experience on a wide range of topics such as hauora, art, mission, Te Reo, and other current issues. The aim is to inspire women to grow, extend themselves, and engage in projects and activities that deepen faith and broaden perspective.

The evening is relaxed and enjoyable, with a selection of delicious nibbles and beverages served as a Friday night treat, including homemade cake for supper. It's a wonderful opportunity to be encouraged, enjoy good company, and build connections with women from the church and the wider community.

Inspire is also a safe and welcoming space to bring friends who may not yet share the Christian faith.

Occasional sales of cards and coffee help support BrightHope, a Christchurch based Christian humanitarian NGO. For further information, please contact Deb Johns on 021 707 769.

New Here Gatherings

Several times each year we host New Here gatherings for people who are new to the church or exploring faith.

These relaxed afternoons provide an opportunity to meet members of the leadership team, ask questions, and learn more about the life of the church and the different ways to get involved. See our "Get Plugged In" page for more info!