Bitterne United Reformed Church – Worship, Community & 40th Anniversary Highlights
The May 2026 edition of Outlook captures a vibrant month at Bitterne URC, filled with worship, hospitality, charity events, and celebrations as we continue marking 40 years in Bitterne Precinct. With Christian Aid Week, Girls’ Brigade activities, and the Great Bitterne Bake Off, this issue reflects a church full of energy, generosity, and connection.
Key Highlights This Month
- Church Diary: A busy programme including the Church Away Day, Community Lunch, Senior Citizens outings, Christian Aid events, Board Games Evening, Women’s Group, and weekly worship.
- Message from an Elder: A reflection on hospitality—both Jesus’ and ours—and the importance of sharing food, welcome, and care with our community. “The Bible teaches that food is both a physical necessity and a spiritual blessing, emphasizing gratitude and sharing.”
- Church Family News & Prayer: Prayers for those who are unwell, grieving, or facing difficult circumstances, including the family of Barry Downer.
- Church Away Day – 2 May: A day of fellowship, learning, and fun at Petersfield URC, with teaching from Ruth White and time to enjoy the gardens, activities, and shared meals.
- Southern Fellowship Anniversary Service: An invitation to join the 9 May service at Braishfield URC, led by Revd Mike Perrott with guest preacher Revd Stephen Thornton.
- Great Bitterne Bake Off – Winners Announced: A joyful Easter Saturday event hosted by Churches Together in Bitterne, featuring 17 bakes and raising £157.50. Categories included Best Decorated Cake, Best Youth Bake, Best Showstopper, and more.
- A Million Acts of Hope: URC churches across the UK are encouraged to share stories of kindness, connection, and hope during the national week of action.
- Girls’ Brigade:
- Summer Tea Party with Bible Aunties & Uncles
- Invitation to become a Bible Auntie/Uncle
- Swanage Camp preparations and ice‑cream donations
- Christian Aid Quiz Night – 16 May: Part of the 40th anniversary programme, with a ploughman’s supper and donations supporting Christian Aid’s global work.
- Care & Connect Café: Volunteers needed for the new dementia‑friendly carers café launching soon.
- Eco Tips – May: A Rocha UK encourages supporting pollinators for World Bee Day—planting wildflowers, avoiding pesticides, and creating bee‑friendly habitats.
- 40th Anniversary Events: A reminder of the year‑long celebration, including concerts, the Summer Fair, Saxophony, Jigsaw Festival, Barn Dance, and Christmas Tree Festival.