A church has decided to 'come outside' its walls to host its second 'Annual Back to School Block Party' today.

Bishop Lloyd Duncan, of the New Testament Church of Greater Smith Hill, said: "This event is the visionary initiative of my wife Dr. Shanda Duncan. Last year she gave birth to this initiative, which proved to be extremely successful so our church has decided to host it again."

In addition to their outreach, he said the church would be giving away 144 school bags to children who are in need of a bag for school.

"Also, on Sunday morning at 11.30 a.m. we will be hosting a special back to school service for students returning back to school next week," said the Bishop.

"Also parents, guardians and teachers are all warmly welcomed. The youth of our church will be in charge of this service from the beginning to the end.

"During this service I will offer a special prayer of thanksgiving to God for keeping our children safe over the summer and I will also pray for God's continued protection on the lives of our young people as they start the new academic school year."

Today's event starts outside the church at 28 Curving Avenue in Pembroke sat 11.30 a.m. Everything is free.