Tilehouse Street Baptist Church, Hitchin

OUTLOOK

Outlook April/ May 2026

News of the Church Community

As I write my last pastoral report the sun is shining! Hurrah! In fact these past few days have been pleasantly warm. But the weather forecasters keep reminding us not to get carried away. We are still in the early days of Spring and anything could happen weather-wise.

But, as with much of life, the best attitude to have is to be thankful for today and its blessings and leave tomorrow and its uncertainties in the hands of the God who loves us.

Since the last report we need to record the death of Rod Piggott who died on 4 February 2026 at Fairfield Manor & Care Home. His funeral took place on 4 March. We give thanks for his life and continue to pray for his son, Ian, and daughter, Helen, and all the members of his family. May they know God's strength and presence in their grieving.

In other news:

Pam is home again and recovering well from a period in hospital.
Anne's latest cancer treatment is now over half-way, but also struggles with vertigo from time to time.
Jean is able to get out again after a chest infection.
Sheila is undergoing immunotherapy treatment.
Harry is fully mobile again now.
Barbara is recovering after an eye operation.
Mary Brownis feeling more tired these days although she tries to stay cheerful.

We remember too other friends who are adjusting to health changes and challenges.

Gracious and loving God, we lift our friends before you, along with others about whom and for whom we care, and ask that all might know your comfort and peace.

Pray for the deacons: Sheila, Meg, John, Martin and Paul, who, together with Nickie in her role as Joint Treasurer will be facing extra demands on their time and energy as the church enters another pastoral vacancy.

Pray for the search for a new minister. For trust in God's timing. For a positive outlook during the uncertainty.

And, finally, for those celebrating birthdays or anniversaries in April and May … I haven't forgotten you! We celebrate with you.

Rev. Jane

Flower Ministry

The flower ministry in our church is very much appreciated. On a Sunday they brighten the sanctuary, reminding us of the beauty of God's creation, and afterwards are enjoyed by those who receive them during the week. They are delivered to those who are unwell, are celebrating a birthday, have been bereaved, are celebrating an anniversary, are facing a difficult time or simply would appreciate knowing that the church is thinking of them.

Church funds are used to make sure that there are flowers in church every week but we are really blessed by those of you who give financially to boost the flower fund. Some donors ask for a particular Sunday to remember an anniversary or a loved one. Some also ask for specific flowers or a particular colour. Some donors just make a donation to keep the fund going and to ensure that there are extra flowers in church for Christmas and Easter.

If you have given in the past, thank you, and we hope that you will continue to give. If you would like to start contributing to the fund generally and / or ask for a particular Sunday then please let joint treasurers, Meg and Nickie, know how much you are giving (so that the money can be allocated to the right fund) and let the church administrator, Will, know if there's a date you would like (and flower colour if appropriate) so that the details can be added to the arrangers' rota.

Thank you.
Jane and the flower ministry team

Easter sunrise