Minister's Newsletter August 2026 

Dear Friends,
There’s something rather special about August. It’s a month that seems to invite us to breathe a little more deeply. The pace of life changes, holidays beckon, gardens are full, and there is a sense of abundance all around us. In many ways, August reminds us that before there is another season of sowing, there is first a season of enjoying the harvest. I sometimes think we forget that rest is a deeply theological idea. Right at the beginning of the Bible, God rests. Not because God is tired, but because rest is part of the rhythm of creation. Throughout scripture, we are reminded that God calls us not simply to work harder, but to stop, notice, give thanks, and delight in the gifts that have been given to us. Perhaps that's an invitation for all of us this month. Before we rush into the autumn with its meetings, new beginnings, and busy diaries, let's take a moment to look back and recognise all that God has been doing among us. There is certainly much to celebrate! This month we warmly welcome Deacon James and Rev Jonny as they move into the Cambridge Circuit. We know that moving home, leaving familiar communities, and beginning a new ministry is both exciting and daunting. We especially look forward to welcoming Deacon James into the ministry team at Castle Street. You'll be able to read more about him elsewhere in this newsletter, and I know you'll make him feel incredibly welcome. Please do keep both James and Jonny in your prayers as they settle into their new homes and ministries. On 16th August, we have what I know will be a very special service. Together we'll take a photographic trip down memory lane, reflecting on the four years we've shared since I arrived in the Circuit in 2022. It hardly seems possible that so much has happened in such a short time! It will also be an opportunity to give thanks for the privilege of continuing my ministry here for another five years. Looking back, there is so much to celebrate, and even more to look forward to as we continue this journey together. August is also a month of joyful new beginnings as we celebrate two baptisms at Histon. Many of you have already had the pleasure of meeting Baby Lois and her family, and we look forward to baptising her on 9th August. Later in the month, on 30th August, we will welcome another baptism as we celebrate with the Wells family. Please do hold both families in your prayers as they prepare for these wonderful occasions, giving thanks for the gift of new life and the promises we make together as a church family. Both families have a Methodist Minister as a Grandfather and we are delighted that both Grandad’s will be helping with the service and Rev Anthony Wells will be leading the service entirely on the 30th August. Don't forget that our next Open Manse is on 9th August. Whether you've been before or are thinking of coming for the first time, everyone is warmly welcome. Open Manse is simply a chance to spend time together, enjoy good conversation, plenty of cake (there's usually plenty of cake!), and the opportunity to get to know one another a little better. We'd love to see you there. Towards the end of the month, I'll be heading rather further afield than Histon or Castle Street! I'm travelling to New Zealand to lead the keynote Bible studies at the World Assembly of Methodist and Uniting Church Women, where around a thousand women from across the globe will gather for worship, learning, and fellowship. It's a huge privilege, and I'd be very grateful for your prayers as I prepare and travel. I can't wait to share the stories, photographs, and adventures with you when I return. And while we're looking ahead, there's another wonderful celebration on the horizon. On 12th September, John the Vet and Adam (also a vet!) will be married, and the whole congregation is warmly invited to join them at 2pm as they celebrate this very special day. Please do keep them in your prayers as they prepare for their wedding and all the excitement that lies ahead. August is also a month of anticipation for many young people. We remember in our prayers those receiving their GCSE and A Level results, particularly those wondering what the next chapter of life will hold. We also pray for the many students who will discover whether they have secured a place at university, especially those hoping to come to Cambridge. It's an exciting time, but it can also be one filled with nerves and uncertainty. May they know God's peace, whatever the outcome, and may those who will soon become part of our university community find a warm welcome when they arrive. August reminds us that God is always at work through both endings and beginnings. We welcome new colleagues, celebrate baptisms, look back with gratitude, look forward with hope, and send one another out into the world carrying Christ's love. What a privilege it is to be part of a church family that shares all of life's seasons together. May this month give each of us time to rest, to notice God's goodness, and to discover afresh the joy of walking with Christ.
With every blessing,
Rev Jenny