Children and Young Families
We are pleased to have families with children as members of our congregation. Kids’ Club meets this morning in the hall with Red Balloon – the children go out after the Collect and re-join their families in time for communion. Toilets with changing facilities are available near the entrance of the church.
Thank You
A big Thank You to all who contributed to making last Sunday’s welcoming of Alex Norris and our annual barbecue such a successful day. A special thanks to our barbecuers - Stephen Smyth, Dmitrii Babak, Andy Beverley, Leo Malkin and Andy Moxon – and to everyone who contributed a salad. Our gratitude also to the residents who kindly opened up their gardens to us.
Farewell, St John’s Choral Scholars
The last Sunday this year’s choir will sing will be 16th July. We will have opportunity to thank them for the wonderful gifts that they have brought to our worship through singing this past year. Over the summer we will transition to our summer Sundays pattern where we use a congregational setting around folk tunes and welcome a guest musician to play alongside a cantor.
Volunteer Opportunities
Intercessors Wanted
Ever thought of leading the prayers on a Sunday morning? New recruits are invited to join the rota of Intercessors. Having a diverse range of voices leading the prayers adds much to our worship and it’s not half as hard as you think. If you think you would like to read the prayers once a quarter and are interested to find out more then please have a word with Michael or Kate or email them on kateandmikey1@gmail.com.
A full template with a framework of prayers and lots of ideas is provided plus training and support. Do consider joining the intercessors’ rota.
You Know You Want to…
Do you get goosebumps/pimples listening to the opening hymn performed by our wonderful musicians while watching the Servers dutifully process up the centre aisle? Have you ever wondered what you would look like donning a hooded white alb? Are you interested in washing the Vicar’s hands with holy water before communion? If the answer is yes to any of these questions (or, even if you’re not sure), it’s time for you to become an Acolyte! No experience is required and we will be holding a training/refresher session in the coming months following the 10:00 am service. If you have any questions, please feel free to email our newly appointed Head Server, Bryan Stephens at bryan.m.stephens@gmail.com.
Georgina Elsey
Georgina is going into the army! and her farewell service will take place on Sunday, 3rd September. This will be our opportunity to say good-bye to Georgina and to wish her well. Please make a special effort to be here as we celebrate and give thanks for her three years of ministry among us. Georgina will be entering the Army as a chaplain later that week.
Giggles and Gossip
Thursdays, 9.30-11am
Giggles & Gossip, a playgroup for parents with babies and toddlers, meets on Thursday mornings. There will be soft play available and the club will also consist of crafts and a story time for the parents and children to take part in.
After School Group
Thursdays, 3.30-5pm
This group is for school children between reception and year six. Children will play drama, lead games, and explore biblical stories. This is being organised through our local CofE Primary School, St James & St John. Please contact the school for further information or to register your child.
Safeguarding at St John’s
Safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults is a priority at St John’s. On 21st June the Parochial Church Council (PCC) carried out their annual reviewed of the parish’s Safeguarding Policy. A copy is available in the porch and on the parish website. Safeguarding concerns can be raised in the first instance with the church’s Safeguarding Officer, Mary Langford.
