Welcome to St John’s Hyde Park
We are delighted that you have chosen to join our community today, especially if you are joining us for the first time. For those who have come as a family with young children, Kids’ Club meets during the service in the Parish Hall. Further information about St John’s can be found on our web site: www.stjohns-hydepark.com.
St John’s, like the Hyde Park Estate, wants to be part of a dog-friendly community. We welcome people to bring their dogs with them to church but we ask that they are mindful of the need for dogs not to disturb others at worship. If your furry friend begins to bark or to feel uncomfortable, please do feel free to take him or her for a walk outside.
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.
Whitsun Carols, 21st May, 6pm
A unique musical service this evening concluding our annual cycle of carol services which tell the events of the Christian year. At Whitsun Carols we commemorate the events from Easter to Pentecost, with readings and musical selections from the choir and guest musicians. The service will feature music by Mascagni, Anderson-Lopez, Gounod, Rutter and John Williams. A seasonal reception of Pimms and cucumber sandwiches will follow.
Memorial Service for Canon Thaddeus Birchard
Thaddeus was vicar here from 1980-2001. Those who remember Thaddeus will recall that he died suddenly last summer in Ghent and was buried there with a funeral service taking place.
As there has been no memorial service in London and a number of people at St John’s would like to celebrate Thaddeus’ life and to mark his contributions to St John’s, we have designated the parish eucharist on Sunday morning, 18 June, for this purpose. Please save the date - we are now in the process of planning the service.
Alex Norris
We are very much looking forward to Alex joining Team St John’s this coming summer. His licensing will take place during the morning service on Sunday, 2nd July. Alex will be licensed by the Archdeacon of Charing Cross acting as Commissionary for the Bishop of London.
This Sunday will be our summer jazz mass and will be followed by our summer barbecue in the gardens behind the church. More details to follow but save the date now!
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.
Grace Stedman
We were saddened to learn this week of the death of Grace Stedman. Grace was a regular member of the congregation in the 80’s and early 90’s but her mobility in later years limited her ability to get to St John’s except for special occasions. She died on 2nd May in King’s College Hospital. Her funeral will be held on 31st May at 11am at All Saints West Dulwich, Lovelace Road, London SE21 8JY.
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. Please join us if you can.
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.
The Reverend Matthew Foster Heyd
Matthew was formerly rector of The Church of the Heavenly Rest in Manhattan and visited St John’s with a group from our sister church last came to London. He has been elected coadjutor of the Diocese of New York and his consecration is scheduled for 20th May at St John the Divine in Manhattan. As coadjutor he will assist the Bishop of New York, the Right Reverend Andrew Dietsche, and will be installed as Bishop on 16th March 2024, when Bishop Dietsche will retire. We wish Matthew well in his new role. Please keep him in your prayers at this time.
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.
