As we Journey towards Holy Week - A Letter from Ade April 2025
Dear Friends,
As we draw near to Holy Week, I find myself reflecting on these powerful words from Paul’s letter to the Philippians:
"And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death—even death on a cross." (Philippians 2:8)
This verse leads us into the heart of the coming days—a journey marked by humility, obedience, suffering, and ultimately, the deep love of Christ poured out for the world. Holy Week invites us to slow down, to walk with Jesus through the events of His final days, and to allow the story of the cross to speak freshly into our lives.
We have a number of services and events leading up to Easter Sunday, and you are most welcome at any of them. We are especially excited to welcome the new Bishop of Aston, Esther Prior, who will be preaching and presiding on Easter Sunday as we celebrate the hope of the resurrection!
More details about our Holy Week and Easter services can be found on our website:
👉 www.stjohnswalmley.com/easteratstjohns
Church Family Updates
New Curate
I’m delighted to announce that from July, we will be welcoming Tendi Mudzvovera as our new Curate! She writes:
Hi! I’m Tendi. I was born in Zimbabwe and moved to the UK as a teenager. I’m currently studying at St Mellitus London and on placement at Gas Street Church. I’m passionate about prayer and the local church, and I love how powerful a witness the church can be when we’re united.
I’m a big fan of excellent coffee, singing, writing, and hot weather! I’m really excited to be joining the team at St John’s and can’t wait to meet you all!
Please do pray for Tendi as she finishes her studies and prepares to move to Walmley. Her ordination as Deacon will take place at Birmingham Cathedral on Saturday, 5th July.
Building Redevelopment
While I wish I had more concrete updates, I’m pleased to report that our plans continue to progress—albeit slowly. We are still working with the DAC and making some adjustments along the way. A fuller update will be given at the APCM. I remain deeply thankful to our Building Vision Group for their faithful work behind the scenes.
Giving (Free Will Offering)
Thank you to all who give so generously to support the life and ministry of St John’s.
For the first time in a while, we’re facing a deficit budget. This is partly due to our faith-filled step in appointing our wonderful Associate Vicar, Claire, and the additional costs linked to property upkeep.
After Easter, we’ll be inviting everyone to prayerfully reflect on their giving—whether it’s starting, restarting, or increasing. Together, we can continue to grow in faith and serve our community well.
New Sermon Series: Grace-Filled Generosity
To support this, we’ll be starting a new sermon series after Easter, exploring 2 Corinthians 8–9. Over four weeks, we’ll reflect on:
The joyful generosity of the Macedonian churches—even in hardship
Why giving should be willing, thoughtful, and fair
The importance of integrity and preparation in giving
How God blesses generosity and uses it to glorify Him
At the heart of it all is Jesus, who gave everything for us. As we give, we reflect His love to the world. Let’s open our hearts to His grace and discover the joy of generous living.
Alpha Course
We’ve just completed a fantastic Cantonese Alpha Course—thank you to all who participated and helped lead. It’s especially encouraging to hear that the group wants to continue studying the Bible together!
We’ll be starting an English Alpha Course on Tuesday evenings at 7 PM, beginning 6th May 2025. Alpha is a safe, welcoming space to explore life, faith, and meaning. Whether you're curious, sceptical, or searching, Alpha is for you. Come along, invite a friend, and join the conversation.
Flyers are available in church, or visit our website for more info.
Baptism & Confirmation Service
Our deanery’s Baptism and Confirmation Service will be held at St John’s on Sunday, 18th May at 6:30 PM, led by Bishop Michael.
If you’re interested in being baptised or confirmed, please sign up in the lounge or online:
👉 Sign Up Here
Once you’ve signed up, either Claire or I will be in touch to talk further.
New Wine Worship Night
We’re thrilled to be hosting a New Wine Regional Worship Night here at St John’s!
New Wine exists to see the nation transformed by Spirit-filled, Kingdom-empowered believers. Claire and I are part of the New Wine Network, and we’re excited for this special evening of worship and prayer for our city.
It’s the first time we’ve hosted an event like this—let’s fill the church!
🎟️ Tickets are available directly from New Wine:
👉 Book Here
Buildings and Facilities Coordinator
Some of you may have seen the advert for our new Buildings and Facilities Coordinator. This follows Paul Saunders’ decision to retire after many years of faithful service as Verger. Paul has worked tirelessly to keep our church warm, clean, and welcoming.
We’ll have an opportunity to thank Paul properly soon. In the meantime, please pray for both Paul and Kay, and for the person who will take on this important role.
👉 Find Out More
APCM & PCC Membership
Our Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) will take place during the 10:30 AM service on Sunday, 11th May. It’s a great opportunity to reflect on all that God has been doing and to look ahead together.
We’re seeking one new Churchwarden and there are five PCC vacancies. Nomination forms will be available soon, or feel free to chat with me or the wardens if you're interested.
Food Around the World
Back by popular demand—Food Around the World returns on Saturday, 10th May!
This joyful event is a celebration of the rich and diverse cultures within our church, featuring delicious samples of international cuisine.
🌍 Suitable for all ages.
🎟️ Tickets are selling fast:
👉 Book Here
As we enter Holy Week, my prayer is that each of us finds space to enter into the story once again—and through it, draw closer to the One who gave everything for us.
Thank you for the joy and blessing it is to serve alongside you.
With love in Christ,
Ade