Pew News - 26 Apr 2026
Let the children come to me
Last Sunday we were delighted to welcome Gabby from the The Leprosy Mission, who spoke movingly about their work supporting families affected by leprosy. In particular, she highlighted the charity’s commitment to protecting and nurturing children -often the most vulnerable when a parent or they themselves are diagnosed. Children remain at the very heart of their mission.
Jesus reminds us, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Likewise, in Proverbs 22 we read, “Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are old they will not depart from it.” These words continue to shape our calling as a church community.
Here at St Mary’s, we have seen wonderful progress over the past six months in helping children feel truly part of our worship, especially through the Altogether services. It has been a joy to see them gathered quietly in prayer on the mats - a simple but powerful sign of belonging and faith. Parents and carers deserve real appreciation for the encouragement and guidance they give.
Our children are not only part of the Church today -they are its future. In all we do, may we continue to encourage and empower them, nurturing a deep sense of identity and confidence in who they are in Christ. For if we teach and guide them well, we plant seeds of faith that, God willing, will remain with them throughout their lives.
THIS WEEK PLEASE PRAY FOR:
Anna B, Cathy E, Ann J, Tyler, Jake C, John C, Sam C, Hilary & Chris L, Margaret R, Michelle R.
The prayer team continues to pray for all who have requested prayer.
To request prayer: Email: prayer@sholing.church
REMEMBERING
Joan K, praying for her family and friends
Roy T, praying for Daisy, family and friends
FUNERAL: ROY TIMMS
The funeral service for Roy Timms will take place on Friday 1st May 2026, 1.30pm at Wessex Vale Crematorium.
Daisy invites you to attend. Please continue to hold Daisy and the family & friends in your prayers.
MAY SERVICES
Sun 10 May - 10am service
We will be joined by CHANGING FACES, one of our nominated charities.
SCHOOL RULES
As you all know, you MUST bring screw top cups to services at the school (school rules). We have a few spares, but they are for visitors and new people only. It’s very embarrassing if we have new people arrive and we’re unable to offer them a drink.
SCHOOL ASSEMBLY SUPPORT
CLOTHING: Do you have any clothing we can adapt for Bible characters for primary aged children (4 – 11yrs)? Things like old shirts that we can adapt as tunics, dressing gowns, scarves.
VOLUNTEERS: Can you help keep the clothing clean & tidy?
PHOTOS: Has anybody got a good photos of our nativity scene (see below) with all the characters?
Please speak to Su Brakewell or email su@sholing.church
FOOD BANK
The food bank is very short of the following items, so if you are able to donate, it would be much appreciated.
· Sanitary Towels
· Toothpaste
· Washing capsules
· Shampoo
· Conditioner
CAN YOU SUPPORT OUR HERITAGE 160 PROJECT?
Due to rising building costs and additional requirements mean that we now face a funding shortfall. To complete this work well, we are inviting support from our congregation and from all those who have worshipped here or used St Mary’s for baptisms, weddings, funerals, enjoyed a community event or moments of quiet prayer.
If St Mary’s has been part of your story, we would be deeply grateful for any donation you are able to make. Every gift, large or small, will help ensure that this church and its stories are cared for and shared with future generations.
CALLING ALL KNITTERS/CRAFTERS
Story Telling in Schools
KNITTING – could you knit hats or false beards? We can provide a pattern, even wool if needed.
CRAFTING – some stories could do with props – for example palm branches. We plan stories in advance so will be able to give a reasonable notice. We have all sorts of crafting stuff in the cupboard.
Please let Su Brakewell know if you can help.
APCM (CHANGE OF DATE)
Meeting: Mon 18th May 7.15pm | Hall
Due to this change of date, Nomination forms will be available from 4 May for anyone who is interested in becoming a PCC member/church warden.
Please speak to Joyce if you have any questions.
JIGSAWS NEEDED
Annie is thrilled that the jigsaws have all been sold and is now looking for more. If you have any spare, please bring them to church/cuppa or get in touch with Annie Gale to arrange a drop-off. Thank you.
SUMMER FETE
Sat 27 June 2026
We are teaming up with St Monica School for this year’s Summer Fete.
Could you spare time to help plan the event or to help out on the day itself?
Please speak to Ben or email ben@sholing.church
The Parish Giving Scheme - A simple and efficient way to support your church regularly. The Parish Giving Scheme makes giving easy, secure, and tax-efficient - helping your gift go further and reducing administration for the parish. If you’d like to know more, please speak to Ben or Garry.
MARATHON IN AID OF ST MARY’S
Fantastic news! Mark Foreman has now completed a 20-mile training run, putting him in a strong position for the marathon on 3rd May.
He has already raised over £500 in support of St Mary’s - thank you so much to everyone who has contributed so far. If you would still like to support him, you can do so using the button below.
SHARE YOUR STORIES
We’re really surprised not to have received many of your stories of St Mary’s. We’d really love to hear from you.
As part of our Heritage 160 celebrations, we are collecting stories, memories, and treasures that make up the living history of our parish.
We’d love to hear about your connections to St Mary’s Church Sholing or the wider Parish of Sholing. Your contribution will help preserve our shared heritage for future generations. There are forms and envelopes available in the Hall or you can speak to one of our team or email us at Heritage@Sholing.Church
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