Looking Forward in Faith

Our recent Church Council meeting (July 2026) was an encouraging opportunity to reflect on all that God is doing at High Street and to look ahead to the year before us (the Methodist year runs from September - August so ’next year' is almost upon us).

A significant part of the evening was devoted to thinking about three areas of the Methodist Way of Life that we identified at this year's Big Day In as priorities for growth:

• Living in a way that draws people to Jesus

• Telling of the love of God

• Sharing our Faith

Ruth Lindridge led lively discussions, helping us consider what we are already doing well, where new opportunities might lie, and what we hope to see over the next 12 months.

The Council also unanimously approved our 2026–27 Mission Action Plan and budget. Margaret Woods reported that careful stewardship has kept our finances in a healthy position although acknowledged the importance of strengthening regular giving so that we can continue to support the church's ministry and become increasingly self-sustaining.

We were delighted to approve Harpenden Money Advice Centre as our local charity partner for the next two years, continuing our commitment to serving those in need within our community.

There was also encouraging news from the Circuit. High Street will co-host the District Synod in September and the process of appointing our next minister is progressing well, with hopes that an appointment could be confirmed later this year.

The meeting concluded with an inspiring update from Ruth about Diversity Week at Katherine Warington School. Alongside Sally and Mark Hammond, she created prayer stations that welcomed students and staff of all faiths—and none—to pause, reflect and pray. The positive response was a wonderful reminder of the value of building relationships beyond our church walls and sharing God's love in practical and welcoming ways.