Welcome to June

As we step into the month of June there is a real sense of spring turning into summer- this year my flipflops are out very early! So as always I have bought a car boot full of little plants, full of misplaced confidence in my gardening ability, but inspired by the beauty and optimism of the natural world around me.  At the moment the hawthorn is looking particularly stunning laden with blossom- the new growth and the warmer days promises a time of renewal.   


Just as nature reaches peak growing season, the season of Pentecost offers us its own renewal and promise of growth.   Pentecost is the great feast of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, reminding us that God’s presence isn’t just for Sundays, feast days or to be found in church, it’s the fire that ignites hearts, a wind that stirs life into dry bones and a warmth that makes things new.   On that first Pentecost the disciples, once fearful and uncertain, were transformed by the Spirit’s power.  Their courage swelled and their lives became a living testament to God’s love.   


So in June we are also invited to embrace transformation, just like my tiny plants who stretch to the sun to receive life, we are called to lean towards the Spirit. This is a season of growth for us all- Pentecost asks us to stir into life, embrace the gifts and talents we have been given and consider how our lives can also become that living testament to God’s love. 


We’ll see some of the talents in our community at the forthcoming Midsummer Piano, Pimms and Poetry Afternoon tea- everyone is welcome on 21st June at 2pm- [email protected]. This promises to be a very special event- what a lovely way to spend a Saturday afternoon!   Services in June are as usual, with, we hope, something for everybody throughout the month- hope to see you all soon.


-Kindly penned by our marvellous Children's Minister and Worship Leader 
-Carol-Ann
to edit.

“Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not people.” — Ephesians 6:7

In May, we said a heartfelt thank you and farewell to our beloved Rosemary, who is has stepped down as Churchwarden, we are now looking for someone to take up the role. Could it be you? It’s a rewarding way to contribute to the life of St John’s, grow in your faith, and be part of a truly supportive and joyful team. No one walks this path alone — we’re in it together.

At our Annual Parochial Church Council Meeting we also said farewell to Ruth who has retired from the council after many years and Nicky who is handing over the reigns as Safeguarding Officer. We’re welcoming new members to our Parochial Church Council (PCC) — ideal for those who care deeply about the future of our church and want to be part of shaping it. This might be the moment to step forward and say, “Yes, I’m in!” 

We're very excited to welcome Jane to the Parochial Church Council. Sharon has joined Jean to serve on the Deanery Synod. Thank you so very much to both Jane and Sharon, we are so excited to have your help in taking St John’s forward. 

While we continue praying for the appointment of a new priest, we’re incredibly thankful for the dedication and warmth of our current ministry team — Reader Ruth, Ordinand Juliet, Lay Worship Minister Carol-Ann, visiting clergy, and of course Rev’d Chris from The Holy Innocents. If you’d like a chat, Juliet is available in church on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, or you can contact her by email at [email protected]. You’ll also find Tony in church every Monday at 9:30am, always happy to talk or answer questions.

We encourage everyone to take part in this season of energy, hope, and service — let’s move forward together in faith, with full hearts and open hands.

You can also support St John’s with zero fuss by using Easy Fundraising when you shop online:
https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/sjcs/
Here’s to a month of fresh beginnings, shared purpose, and joyful action!