Super storytelling with Superbook Academy

Messy Church is a place where people of all ages encounter Jesus in a creative, welcoming, and engaging environment. We love to explore the Bible story through our activities, but when it comes to storytelling during the celebration, we know that some team members quiver at the thought of delivering a captivating Bible story, that engages both adults, young children and every age in between. This often leaves one team member, often the paid or ordained worker, to fulfil this role. This is all when and good until that vital team member on the day of Messy Church, trips up on their doorstep and is rushed into A&E with a suspected broken arm (this happened to our storyteller for Southwark Cathedral does Messy Science back in 2022). What do you do?

For churches and venues fortunate enough to be kitted out with screens, sound systems, and a teenager able to work a laptop, help is available in form of animated stories. At the Hand in Hand Children and Family ministry conference in February, Jane and Aike found themselves chatting with Luke and the team from Superbook Academy, who were on the neighbouring exhibition stand (with the bubble-blowing machine!).

Aike: Tell us about Superbook Academy’s animated stories?

Luke: Superbook Academy’s animated Bible stories takes viewers back in time to witness key moments in Scripture firsthand. Whether it’s Moses parting the Red Sea, David facing Goliath, or Jesus performing miracles, these episodes help bring the stories of faith to life.

The series follows Chris, Joy, and Gizmo, three characters who embark on faith-filled adventures, helping young viewers understand biblical truths in a way that feels personal and relevant.

This engaging, visual approach is particularly helpful for Messy Churches looking to enhance storytelling and bring Scripture to life for children and families.

Aike: This sounds like a brilliant addition to the Get Messy! session material and provides a new approach to storytelling. What’s your favourite Superbook animation and why?

Luke: My favourite episode is The Story of the Prodigal Son. I was really moved by how Chris’ friend was afraid to go back to his dad after crashing his bike, but through the story, we see God’s kindness and grace. I watched it with my 4-year-old, and it was such a beautiful moment to convey God’s love for him too.

Aike: What a precious faith-filled parent-child moment!  It goes to show that these animations can be used by families to have faith conversations in the home, between Messy Church gatherings.

I’ve got to ask the awkward question – how much does it cost to use?

Luke: Superbook Academy is now completely free for churches, schools, and families. This Easter, why not try the Easter-themed resources, which include the powerful story of Jesus’ death and resurrection—a great way to help children explore the meaning of Easter in a hands-on and engaging way.

Aike: That’s amazing – how do I access this free resource?

Luke: 📖 Sign up today and access Superbook Academy for free at cbn.uk/messychurch

Aike: I notice Superbook Academy offers more than just video clips. Many of our Messy Church leaders are also involved with children and family ministry at Sunday church or after-school clubs. What other resources do you provide?

Luke: Preparing engaging, age-appropriate discipleship materials can take a lot of time, but Superbook Academy makes it easier. With over 200 structured lessons and 68 courses, church leaders can access flexible, easy-to-follow teaching plans covering both Old and New Testament stories. Ready-to-use lessons include scripture memory verses, worship moments, and small group discussions ideas, giving leaders a structured yet flexible approach to engaging children in meaningful conversations about faith. The high-quality animated Bible stories and interactive activities are designed to help children and families engage with Scripture in a meaningful way.

Thank you to Luke and the team at Superbook Academy for making this resource freely available. It’s great that there are many different ways to share God’s amazing story at Messy Church.

Aike Kennett-Brown

Messy Church Ministry Lead