Farewell Bryan Sollenberger
This morning we say farewell to Bryan Sollenberger our administrator of 33 years. Following the service there will be a reception of Champagne and canapes as well as a gin bar. This will be our opportunity to say good-bye to Bryan and to wish him a long and happy retirement. Please stay if you can.
Bible Book Club - Wednesday, 6th May, 7.30pm
The Resurrection Appearances
What really happened after the resurrection?
Join us as we explore a selection of the accounts of Jesus appearing to his followers, from the garden to the road to Emmaus, and behind locked doors. Why do the stories differ? Why do people struggle to recognise him? And what might these encounters mean for us today?
For more information please contact Alex: alex@stjohns-hydepark.com
Parish Beetle Drive, Thursday, 7th May, 7pm
Join us for a parish beetle drive and pie & pea supper on the evening of 7th May at 7pm in church. Whether you're a seasoned beetle player or completely new to the game, this promises to be a fun-filled evening; try your luck with the dice and help us raise money for the refurbishment of St John's parish hall.
Tickets cost £20 per person (£10 for under 18s and/or students) and can be purchased from music@stjohns-hydepark.com or via Eventbrite (booking fees apply) at https://SJHP-Beetle-Drive.eventbrite.co.uk. For more information, speak to Harriet Miller.
Dates for Your Diary
Upcoming events you shouldn’t miss! Note the dates – further details will be forthcoming nearer the time.
Ascension
Thursday, 14th May, 6pm
A eucharist to commemorate the return of Jesus to heaven on the completion of his earthly ministry.
Whitsun Carols
Sunday, 31st May, 6pm
Our ultimate carol service of the year marking the events from Easter to Pentecost. A unique service of readings and music from our choir and guest musicians, followed by a seasonal reception of Pimms and cucumber and mint sandwiches. Make sure you don’t miss this.
Summer Barbecue
Sunday, 28th June, 12pm
The 10am service on 28th June will be followed by our summer barbecue in the gardens behind the church. Further information and tickets will be available soon.
Licensing of Deborah Marsh
Sunday, 20th September, 10am
We are very much looking forward to Deborah joining Team St John’s this coming autumn. Her licensing will take place during the morning service on Sunday, 20th September.
Improvement Projects for St John’s
Vestry Renovation
Now that we have upgraded our vestments, we need to store them appropriately. We have obtained consent to refurbish and redecorate the upstairs vestry and to have a vestment chest made that can store the vestments appropriately. We have also ordered a wooden table and chairs so that the space can be used for small meetings and for the clergy to see people pastorally. The PCC set aside funds last year to cover the cost of these works. The refurbishment was completed before Easter and we are just awaiting delivery and installation of the vestment chest, after which the room can be carpeted.
Hall Refurbishment
The hall was expanded around 1973 and, aside from a new kitchen in 1995 and new toilets in 2015, we have not invested much beyond routine maintenance in the space. A key asset for the local community, it is badly in need of upgrading. Paint Pots’ departure last year has given us an opportunity to carry out significant works to it while we locate a new tenant. We are currently seeking the advice of the Diocesan Advisory Committee and hope to begin the works later in the spring. The PCC has set aside some funds for this last year but there may be some fundraising events in support of this project.
COMMUNITY NOTICES
Refugee Drop-in Volunteers
St John’s hosts a monthly Sunday drop-in centre for refugees run by the West London Synagogue. This provides families with a hot meal, a shopping voucher and a contribution towards their transport, as well as signposting for other practical help. The drop-in centre normally takes place on the third Sunday of the month and they are always open to volunteers to assist them. If you would like to join the volunteer crew, please speak to the Vicar. The next drop-in centre is the 17th May.
Safeguarding at St John’s
Safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults is a priority at St John’s. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) carries out an annual review of the parish’s Safeguarding Policy and the current policy is available in the porch and on the parish website. Safeguarding concerns can be raised in the first instance with the Parish Safeguarding Officer, Mary Langford: safeguarding@stjohns-hydepark.com.
Orion Orchestra
From Vienna to Broadway
Thursday, 14 May 2026, 7.30pm.
Christopher Colosimo and Ian Adams, trustees of the Orion Orchestra would like to offer St John’s parishioners and their guests discount tickets to their next concert. Use code Meghan43 to get 15% off top price tickets. Violinist Danny Koo, violist Meghan Cassidy, and the Orion Orchestra perform Gershwin’s Cuban Overture, Bernstein’s West Side Story Suite, and Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess: Symphonic Fantasy — a vibrant journey from Vienna’s grace to Broadway’s sparkle. Prices from £15.00 to £40.00 (online or on the door)
