Due to a combination of extenuating circumstances we have to change the date of the APCM. I am very sorry for the short notice and hope for your understanding.It will not take place this Sunday as planned, but now on Sunday 25th May at 12pm after the morning service. We hope to have the papers out by Sunday 18th May. Please let the Wardens know if you or anyone you know would like a paper copy.
Nothing says spring quite like the gentle hum of a bee! These incredible creatures play a vital role in pollination, ensuring the growth of fruits, vegetables, and flowers. However, bee populations are in decline due to habitat loss, climate change, and agricultural intensification. As stewards of God’s creation, we have an opportunity to support and protect these essential pollinators.Tuesday 20 May is World Bee Day – a perfect time to reflect on the importance of bees and other pollinators, and to take action to improve their habitats. Even small efforts can make a significant difference! Here are some simple ways you can get involved:- Plant Pollinator-Friendly Flowers: Bees and butterflies rely on nectar and pollen from flowers to survive. Consider planting wildflowers, lavender, or other pollinator-friendly plants in your garden, window box, or community space.- Create a Bee Hotel: Provide shelter for solitary bees by placing a bee hotel in a sunny spot. These small wooden structures give bees a safe place to nest and thrive.- Reduce Pesticide Use: Many pesticides harm bees and other pollinators. Opt for organic gardening methods or choose bee-friendly alternatives to protect these vital insects.- Leave Wild Patches in Your Garden: Allowing a section of your garden to grow wild with native flowers and grasses can create a valuable habitat for bees, butterflies, and other wildlife.- Support Local Beekeepers: Buying honey from local, sustainable beekeepers helps promote ethical beekeeping practices and supports healthy bee populations.We also encourage you to take time to appreciate and pray for the rejuvenation of these crucial pollinators. Their survival is essential to maintaining the balance of God’s creation.Why not take a moment in our church garden to see if you can spot any bees or butterflies? Consider what else we can do as a community to create a more welcoming environment for pollinators. Your ideas and efforts can help make a real impact!To learn more about how to support bees, butterflies, and their habitats, visit: www.arocha.org.uk/what-we-do/target-25. Let’s work together to protect these marvellous creatures and celebrate the wonder of God’s creation!
This year, at St Hilda’s, we are offering a meaningful and eco-friendly way to share Easter greetings with fellow congregation members — by saving trees and sending just one Easter card or message, to be displayed for all to enjoy.Elizabeth has generously prepared a beautiful Easter noticeboard at the back of the church, where we can pin our shared cards or messages. This will be available for everyone to view from Easter Day onwards (but not before, please!), and will remain up throughout the full seven weeks of Eastertide.Not only does it reduce paper use and waste — a small but significant step towards caring for God’s creation — it also allows us to focus on the spirit of togetherness, celebrating the resurrection with unity and love.Naturally, you may still wish to send personal Easter cards, especially to those who live alone, are housebound, or who live further afield and cannot join us in person. If so, please consider buying your cards from charities you’d like to support — another way to do good this Easter.
