Jesus Army holds a party

2:33pm Thursday 4th September 2008

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Believers and non-believers alike have been invited to take part in a fun, free festival in honour of Jesus.

The three-day event, held on Oxpens Field beside Oxford Ice Rink, is the first of its kind and is expected to attract as many as 600 people tomorrow.

The Modern Jesus Army, which has a small following in the city, has pitched a giant marquee with a stage and lighting, surrounded by exhibitions and entertainments.

There is a coffee bar and prayer zone, music, poetry readings and art exhibitions.

Outside the marquee, there is a kids' zone with card-making facilities, drumming workshops, pottery demos, skateboarding and giant graffiti boards.

Event organiser John Pannell, 65, said: "The Modern Jesus Army has held evangelical campaigns for 25 years, but this is the first event of its kind anywhere.

"It's centred on the marquee, but the marquee is only a small part of what's going on - it's a festival.

"We aim to show the Church as something relevant today - something that's alive and fun.

"We believe in loving Jesus and doing the things he wants us to do, rather than not doing the things he doesn't want us to do. "

The Modern Jesus Army has 50 followers in Oxford, with bases in Woodstock Road and Cutteslowe.

Nationally, the Christian movement has about 1,500 supporters.

Pastor Peter Taylor, of Woodstock Road, Oxford, said: "We are holding a people-friendly event.

"Our slogan is free entry, no prejudice. People are very welcome. If they enjoy themselves, they can stick around. If not, then it doesn't matter."

The festival is open tomorrow and Saturday, from noon until late.