The annual pre-schoolers Superhero Party held by St John’s Union Parish attracted more than 40 families as an alternative to Halloween last week.

Set up in the backyard of the church, the event has been held over the past three years, this time focusing on the strengths of each child taking part.

It was organised by St John Union Parish community workers Jared and Jess Suisted, whose team set up a bouncy castle, panna soccer cage, face painting and a superhero ninja course.

Participants were given a mission booklet and encouraged to go around all the activities, completing their missions. Real-fruit ice-creams given by Caltex on St John St were a hit with all ages.

“Our role is to build new bridges between our church family and our community, providing opportunities for people to belong,” Mrs Suisted said.

“The Superhero Party is an opportunity to celebrate what is positive.  We all know that there is enough darkness in our community already, so as a church family we’ve decided to celebrate light, life and love instead.

“As community workers we try to weave this kaupapa through all that we do: “Jesus said, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life’ (John 8:12).”

This year, the event was sponsored by the give it a Go fund from the PressGO foundation.