I would like to begin by thanking everyone who contributes in so many ways to the life, mission, and ministry of All Saints Church in Hessle. I give thanks to God for each and every one of you and all you do to work, worship, and proclaim the gospel of Christ in Hessle. We are blessed to have a ministry team, and our thanks go to Carol, John, Philip and Stephen for the time they give in ministry amongst their busy lives.

We are truly blessed to have a building that sits at the heart of our community and not only stands firm in its long history but continues to build upon its legacy. A building that seeks to serve and support the people of our community by simply declaring God’s love and presence for all, in word and action.

I am grateful to our Wardens, Paul and Ken, to our Caretaker Richard and all those who work hard to maintain our church. People often think that the church is financially funded and supported by the national church and external sources, but this is not so. It is only the generosity of regular worshipers, those who visit our church, and local people who give, that keeps us open and active in service. *(See extract from Treasurers Report Below)

I see how well the church supports and proclaims God’s love in our community by its faithful service, how our church brings people together and works to build up life for the whole community. The faithful people of the church who continue to be beacons of light and hope to all around. I pray that you continue to support one another and our church so that we may continue to be a blessing to others. I thank you for all your support and urge you to continue in your faithful commitment, financially, and with your time, prayer, gifts, and talents as part of the church’s living story and future for all. We are not just a church building, but we are the family of God in this place. And I am privileged to work alongside you and lead you in the work God calls us to.

This year we have welcomed many new members into the church (the family of God), continuing to baptise almost weekly, offering confirmations (the teaching of the Christian faith) delivered through seven engaging conversations. We have been running the bible course alongside other biblical teaching, including leading a reflective retreat at Wydale, a family camping weekend at Ottringham and a traditional Pilgrimage to Walsingham as part of our rhythm of life at All Saints.

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This last year has been exciting in many ways, especially as the tower works and the community project to interpret the history of the church in Hessle, through the Arts has begun. We expect completion of the tower works around end of July / beginning of August 2026.
Although midweek services and open church mornings have been suspended during the works we do look forward to them returning in July and with them welcoming a new midweek healing service, a grief support café, and a prayer space.

Level up youth club on Mondays continues to thrive and I am extremely thankful to the leaders Ros, Emma and Victoria who enable this ministry to happen for our young people.
Soft play on Mondays continues to grow alongside our playgroup at St James on Wednesdays. And it is my hope that Mini Saints held in the church on a Sunday at 10am will be available to start back up later in the year.

As a result of the children’s confirmations last year, I am very excited to pilot ‘A Journey to Confirmation’ in All Saints’ School in September 2026.

Pastoral care continues to be a very important aspect of our ministry, and I am grateful to the Ministry Team who visit our residential homes in Hessle, visiting the sick and taking out holy communion to those who have requested it.

Finally, a huge thank you to all those whose ministries are less visible – those who do so much behind the scenes, to ensure the mission, ministry and maintenance of All Saints runs smoothly. A special thanks to our Treasurer Stuart and to Gail and Janet for their ongoing support; to Sandy our Baptism Secretary, to Graham Marshall for his IT and photographic support and PCC secretary Linda with the support received from Jane. To Lorna, our Safeguarding Officer and Emma, our Health and Safety Officer. Thanks to our team of flower arrangers, our Bellringers, our fundraising and events committee members and our amazing choir run by Paul Benson and James Webb. Thanks to our Verger Heidi, our Sacristan Andrew, Julie, our Electoral Roll Officer, who also cleans and takes care of our church linen. To all our acolytes, crucifers, readers and intercessors, assistants, and volunteers, thank you. I truly value each one of you.
All we do is for God and his people within this our amazing community and we continue to pray for God’s blessing upon us as we seek to grow in our service, and as we build upon our mission and ministry together.
God bless.