Walking Alongside One Another: Renew & Pathfinder Share the Journey

 Young People Lead the Way at Youth Hive AGM + BBQ

This week’s Youth Hive AGM and BBQ was more than just a meeting — it was a celebration of young people’s voices, ideas, and leadership in Northstowe.

From learning how an AGM works to casting real votes to elect their board of trustees, young people stepped into leadership and decision-making with confidence. There were huge cheers (and a few boxes of Heroes 🍫) as we thanked the incredible Romsey Mill youth workers and Northstowe Hub café volunteers who make these spaces welcoming and safe week after week.

A highlight of the afternoon was announcing that the graffiti art project — dreamed up by young people and pitched through a video they helped create — has been awarded funding by the Community Reach Fund. This means they’ll be working with Kilo from Splash and Dash Creations this autumn to bring colour, creativity, and local pride to a key public space in town. Watch this space!

As one of the partner organisations in the Youth Hive, the Northstowe Church Network is excited to be walking alongside a group committed to inclusion, creativity, and community. We share the vision that all young people — whatever their background — deserve to feel seen, heard, and valued in this place.

Thanks to Capital & Centric for making this joyful afternoon of food, fun, and future-shaping possible. The future of Northstowe is looking bold, bright, and youth-led.

 Taking Flight: A Farewell Blessing for Year 6 Leavers

As the school year draws to a close, we’ve had the privilege of marking an important moment in the lives of The Pathfinder School’s Year 6 pupils as they prepare to move on to secondary school.

In a special Collective Worship, parents and carers came into school to celebrate how far the Year 6s have come — and to bless them as they take flight into the next stage of their journey. The theme was inspired by the school’s rooted vision: The roots to grow, the path to follow, the wings to fly.

The children had already spent time reflecting at the Rooted Stations created for this season — interactive prayer and reflection spaces that invited them to consider what they’re leaving behind and what they hope for in the year ahead. In one station, they wrote on doves of courage and pegged them to a flight line — a powerful symbol of readiness, hope, and trust in what lies ahead.

 Kigali Sunday 2025: Praying together with Rwandan friends

As part of our Kigali Sunday celebration earlier this month, we were blessed by video resources from Revd Bosco — including stories from the 1935 revival and a powerful sermon on unity. We give thanks for Bosco’s friendship and ministry, and for the partnership between churches in Rwanda and the UK. Please continue to pray for the Diocese of Kigali and all who seek to live out God’s call to peace and justice. During the service, we prayed especially for the reopening of church buildings in Rwanda, and felt a deep connection as we too pray for our own future dedicated worship space within the Chapel By the Lake community hub. (Some of us even used lego as prayed!)

🎶 Missed the music? We shared this joyful video of the Prince of Peace Choir (Kigali) and Cambourne Community Gospel Choir singing together:

Let’s keep praying, learning, and growing together — across continents and cultures.

 The Music That Brings Us Together

Have you ever noticed how music can connect us — even before we know each other’s names?

We saw this in action over one summer weekend. At The Pathfinder School Fayre, families stopped by our “Music Means Something” stall to share the songs that lift them up. The next day, we welcomed friends and neighbours to an Afternoon Tea, where Cambourne Community Gospel Choir and The Pathfinder School Choir filled the room with joy. Over 125 people gathered in the school hall, sharing homemade scones and clapping along — and something beautiful happened. Strangers smiled, neighbours chatted, and for a moment, we found ourselves part of something bigger than any one of us.

We see it in worship, too. At Pathfinder Church and in the Compline Community, we’ve been exploring the Psalms — ancient songs of raw emotion and deep faith. They remind us that music helps us bring our real selves to God: joyful, weary, hopeful, honest. Even toddlers at Little Explorers seem to know this instinctively, belting out reimagined nursery rhymes with full-hearted delight that flows into the rest of the week.

We believe music can hold what words alone cannot. It brings us into the present moment, helps us feel less alone, and often stirs something holy. Whether in worship, in school, or at a local event, music can help us listen to each other — and perhaps, to God.

That’s one reason we’re working toward building the Chapel by the Lake: a beautiful Christian chapel and flexible community centre, nestled in nature. A space for prayer, for performances, for creativity, for connection. A space where music — and life — can flourish.

👉 Read more about the Chapel by the Lake ›

 Midsummer Festival Brings Joy — and Big Questions — to Northstowe

On a bright and breezy Saturday, The Green came alive with the sounds of music, laughter, and heartfelt conversations as the Northstowe Midsummer Festival welcomed neighbours from all walks of life. Huge thanks to our friends at Northstowe Hub and Northstowe Arts for bringing us all together again so such a special day!

The Northstowe Church Network hosted a community stand at the festival, inviting passers-by to take part in our “What do you need here?” consultation. This was the first public chance to share hopes for the Chapel by the Lake — a proposed faith and community space on the nearby Faith Land. Families built lego models and drew on our giant Northstowe map, as others reflected, and dozens of people added their ideas to our boards: dreams of nature, music, belonging, and sanctuary.

We were delighted to be placed next to our friends from Northstowe Muslims. That proximity sparked rich interfaith conversations — a glimpse of the partnerships already growing around the Chapel by the Lake vision.

Throughout the afternoon, music filled the air. Several church members joined in the joyful singing with Northstowe Chorus, while the KS2 choir from The Pathfinder School gave a moving performance of Wade in the Water, offering a powerful preview of the upcoming Gospel Choir concert. It was a reminder that song and spirit go hand in hand — and that Northstowe is already becoming the kind of community we dream of.

Thank you to everyone who stopped to talk, pray, or take part. If you missed the stand, you can still share your ideas online at www.northstowe.church/chapel.

 Standing Together in Remembrance: Interfaith Gathering for Air India Flight AI171

On Thursday evening, representatives from across Northstowe’s faith and community groups gathered on The Green for an Interfaith Remembrance Gathering to honour the lives lost in the recent Air India Flight AI171 tragedy.

Organised by Hindu Samaj Northstowe, the event brought together voices and traditions from across our diverse community. The programme included readings, prayers, poems, and moments of silence, with the opportunity for those present to offer a flower in tribute, following an Indian tradition of remembrance.

Revd Dr Beth Cope, represented the Northstowe Church Network, Her words expressed a longing that, whatever our worldview, we might be united in compassion, stand alongside one another in grief, and work together for a world marked by justice, safety, and peace.

It was a moving reminder of the strength that can be found when people of many backgrounds stand side by side. We are grateful to Hindu Samaj Northstowe for creating this space for remembrance, and to all who came to honour those who died and to support those who mourn.

“May we carry one another in grief. May the memory of those lost stir us to live with justice, kindness, and peace.” – from Revd Beth’s prayer

 Pentecost Experience Day at The Pathfinder Primary

 Northstowe Pentecost Kite Day — Wind, Wonder & Worship

 Sharing Shelter

When the weather took a turn during the Eid celebrations this April, we were delighted to be able to step in at short notice to support our friends at Northstowe Muslims. By lending our gazebos, we helped ensure their planned outdoor gathering could still go ahead — one of the very few Cambridge Muslim groups able to mark the festival outdoors this year.

It was a joy to see the festival continue in the open air, despite the grey skies, with friends, neighbours, and families coming together to share food, conversation, and the spirit of Eid. This simple act of offering shelter is part of the friendship and mutual support that continues to grow between our communities here in Northstowe.

We’re grateful for the chance to play a small role in such a special day, and we look forward to many more opportunities to stand alongside each other in unity even in our diversity.

Sharing Food, Friendship, and Faith: Community Iftaar

We were honoured to be invited to this year’s Community Multi-Cultural Iftaar, held in Cambridge on 24 March and co-hosted by Cambridge City Council and the Cambridge Mosque Council. The evening brought together people from many backgrounds to mark the breaking of the fast during Ramadan — with a shared meal, thoughtful conversation, and a spirit of welcome.

Revd Beth attended on behalf of the Northstowe Church Network, joining representatives from across the city and region in celebrating the evening’s theme of food, friendship, and social cohesion. It was especially meaningful to attend as a guest of the Chair of Northstowe Muslims, and to represent our ongoing commitment to community and mutual respect here in Northstowe.

We give thanks for this opportunity to share in such a significant moment of hospitality and faith — and look forward to continuing to walk alongside one another in our shared life in this town.

Becoming More Honest: Northstowe Church Network Affirms Inclusion with National Toolkit

At our Church Meeting in March 2025, the Northstowe Church Network voted unanimously to adopt the Honest Church Toolkit,  a national resource developed by the Student Christian Movement and WATCH (Women and the Church) to help churches speak clearly and truthfully about inclusion.

We’ve long described ourselves as offering an inclusive, ecumenical welcome  but the Honest Church campaign invites churches to go a step further: to be open about what that means in practice, especially for women and LGBTQ+ people.

In 2024, we also ran the Living in Love and Faith course, offering space for honest conversation and deep listening. It was one more step in our ongoing journey to be a church that is both thoughtful and inclusive.

Since then, Church Council has spent time reflecting on where we stand — what we already do well, and what we still want to grow into. Using the Honest Church spectrum, the Church Meeting agreed that we currently identify as:

• Level 4.5 for women’s inclusion — there are no limits on leadership and we actively encourage women’s gifts, but we recognise there’s always more to do, especially around intersectionality and long-term culture change.

• Level 4 for LGBTQ+ inclusion — with public support, affirming leadership, Prayers of Love and Faith available in services, and a welcoming culture that continues to grow.

You can now read our full Honest Church statement on the About Us page ›, including links to the toolkit and a short quiz we’re inviting everyone to try.

This isn’t about ticking boxes or projecting perfection:  it’s about building a church culture rooted in honesty, trust, and welcome. We're proud to be part of a growing movement of churches becoming braver, clearer, and more inclusive.

Pancakes and Preparation: Faith in Community as Lent Begins

At the start of Lent, the Northstowe Church Network offered two very different gatherings — one joyful, one contemplative — each helping our growing town connect, reflect, and journey together.

On the Sunday before Lent, over 120 people joined our now traditional  Community Pancake Party, hosted at The Pathfinder School. Families and neighbours shared laughter, races, crafts, and hundreds of pancakes, generously prepared by a team of volunteers. It was a warm, intergenerational event that captured the Network’s commitment to hospitality, joy, and shared life.

Later that week, members of the Northstowe Church Network took part in a more reflective moment: a Choral Eucharist with Ashing at Pembroke College Chapel in Cambridge. With candlelight, soaring voices, and historic architecture, it was a deeply moving way to begin the season of Lent — a time of preparation, reflection, and prayer.

We long to offer moments like this within Northstowe itself. But at present, our town lacks a dedicated sacred space able to host services that require specific acoustics, liturgical setting, or contemplative atmosphere. One day, we hope the Chapel by the Lake will make such occasions possible here — creating a beautiful, purpose-built venue where the whole community can gather for festivals, reflection, and worship.

Together, these two gatherings reflect the heart of the Northstowe Church Network: an open-hearted, community-rooted,  diverse Christian presence. As we continue to grow and seek a permanent home, they also reveal our vision — to offer spaces that are celebratory and sacred, joyful and prayerful, for all who call Northstowe home.

Northstowe Church Network Earns Silver Eco Church Status!

 

We are thrilled to announce that the Northstowe Church Network has earned Silver Eco Church status from A Rocha UK, recognizing our commitment to environmental stewardship.
 
"We want to do what we can to live more sustainably, and to look after God's creation" says Becky Eccleston, the church’s Eco Champion.
 

Sustainability has always been central to our shared life together here in Northstowe. In 2019 we collaborated on Northstowe’s First Sustainability Day, promoting a vision of ‘building a greener community from the ground up’. In 2024, when we launched the Northstowe Church Network as a CIO, we reaffirmed our commitment to integrate environmental sustainability into all our activities, adopting the Eco Church Award Scheme to measure our impact. 
As a community without a permanent church building, but gathering in various new Northstowe spaces, our award reflects progress in three key areas: Worship and Teaching, Community and Global Engagement, and Lifestyle. Becky explains, “We've been able to encourage each other to consider how our choices affect our environment.” This has included  reducing waste, promoting ethical sourcing, and encouraging sustainable transport and energy use. Since 2019, we’ve partnered with local organizations to run litter picks and collaborated with The Pathfinder CofE Primary School on eco-friendly projects like planting flowers and trees, cooking with their Apple Harvest, and tending the conversation area. We also embrace outdoor activities that connect spirituality with everyday life.
 
Looking ahead, we’re excited to bid for land to build a community centre and worship space with a strong eco-focus. Local architects ArchAngel, founded by Nigel Walter (author of 'Making Your Church Sustainable'), are guiding us toward an eco-friendly design. At the same time, Pathfinder Church are committed to ongoing partnership with Pathfinder Primary School to further our joint environmental sustainability efforts.
 
Revd Beth Cope, Pioneer Minister for Northstowe, says “We are grateful to our church family and the wider community for their continued support and participation in our environmental initiatives. This award is a testament to our collective efforts to care for God’s creation and encourages us as we work together towards a greener, more sustainable future.
 
For more on our eco-journey and how you can get involved, please visit our Eco page: www.northstowe.church/eco
 

Praying and Learning Across the Diocese

Revd Beth took part in a meeting discussing the journey to Net Zero for churches in Ely Diocese. This highlighted The practical path to net zero carbon for churches | The Church of England as well as articulating how embedded care of the environment is becoming in every strand of church life - from operating buildings, staff and PCC training, and partnership with schools. 
We weren't surprised to hear that young people (11-19) felt that Churches ought to be working to help people respond better to climate change (image from Burning Down the House | Youthscape). 

 Epiphany Wonder

The season of Epiphany invites us to celebrate those breath‑taking moments when we see the world — and our place in it — with fresh eyes. Often, it’s in moments of wonder in nature that we glimpse something of God our Creator, and find ourselves, like the wise men, drawn to worship. 💚🌙✨

As part of our ongoing eco commitments, we’re focusing on enjoying nature this January. Here are a few ideas inspired by A Rocha:
🌿 Go birdwatching or sketch something in nature that inspires you.
🌱 Start growing your own fruit or vegetables.
🏞️ Explore a new corner of our beautiful countryside.

Find more inspiration here: arocha.org.uk/ideas-to-enjoy-nature

We invited our communities to share their #MomentsOfWonder — and soon beautiful photos, reflections, and creative captures were travelling through our WhatsApp groups, sparking conversation and encouraging others to pause and notice the beauty around them. 📸✨

Midnight Campfire Communion – Christmas Begins in the Silence

While many were settling down for the night or making final preparations for Christmas morning, a circle of neighbours gathered around a flickering fire under the winter sky. In the hush of the building site that is still becoming Northstowe, we welcomed Christmas the way the shepherds did : outdoors, awake, and full of wonder.

Our Midnight Campfire Communion has become a cherished Northstowe tradition: a quiet, reflective service that honours the richness of Midnight Mass while embracing the fragility of being exposed to the elements.

With Scripture, poetry, and silence, we watched the fire crackle and slowly built it up with kindling, reflecting on the waiting and longing of the first Christmas. As midnight approached, we lit the Christ Candle and shared the first communion of Christmas Day, passing bread and mulled wine around the circle, declaring to one another: The body of Christ… the blood of Christ…

There were no microphones, no spotlights. Just people, gathered in hope. We shared readings from different traditions, affirmed our faith, and prayed together under the stars. The simplicity and rawness of it all reminded us what Christmas really is: not polished perfection, but God drawing close in the dust and the dark, sharing in our human experience.

This gathering is part of what makes faith real in Northstowe,  a town still under construction, where shared experiences help shape shared identity. And it’s also a glimpse of what could grow with the proposed faith land: a space where ancient traditions and local stories meet, rooted in this landscape, and open to all.

And when the final blessing was spoken and the fire died to embers, we didn’t rush. Some lingered, quietly, reluctant to break the stillness. Others walked home slowly through the dark, hearts warmed by the truth at the centre of it all:
God is with us.
Even here.
Even now.

Christmas Eve: A Nativity Like No Other

On Christmas Eve, we gathered once again for Northstowe’s unique take on the nativity story — a joyful, chaotic, and deeply meaningful celebration where everyone had a part to play.

Held in the glow of tealights and the hum of anticipation, our Scratch Nativity invited children and adults alike to don a costume, pick up a script, or simply join the crowd and sing. Shepherds and angels appeared on the spot, a cluster of Marys swept imaginary floors, and Joseph looked suitably baffled.

With every reading and carol, the story unfolded — not as a polished performance, but as a shared act of worship, storytelling, and wonder. We read poems and Scripture, familiar songs were signed as well as sung, and the whole space filled with laughter, gasps, and the joyful noise of participation.

There was even room for a moment of stillness: as “Silent Night” played out by candlelight, reminding ourselves that hope is born not in perfection, but in the mess and dust and realness of everyday life — something Northstowe residents know well from our building-site beginnings.

In a town still finding its shape, events like this are precious. They show that sacred moments don’t need stained glass or formality — just open-hearted people, willing to show up. Still, we dream of a space where this kind of worship can flourish more easily: a space made for storytelling, song, and the kind of sacred play that helps faith come alive for all ages. But until then, we’ll keep gathering in hired spaces— dressing up, joining in, and telling the story again.

Because Christmas?
"It’s about Jesus."

 

Beer & Carols – Singing in the Heart of Northstowe

Every year on the Friday before Christmas, the heart of Northstowe comes alive with one of our favourite traditions — Beer & Carols by the Christmas Tree. What we began in the town’s earliest days has grown into a highlight of the festive season, drawing neighbours together to sing, laugh, and share in the warmth of community.

This year’s celebration had our biggest band yet: a 13‑piece brass band, made up of local residents and their friends, filled the air with rich harmonies and festive fanfares. A pop‑up choir brought extra sparkle to the carols, while readings and poems from community leaders gave moments of reflection between the singing. The result was a beautiful mix of tradition and togetherness, made even more magical under the glow of the Christmas Tree lights.

Of course, no Beer & Carols would be complete without some festive fun: after the last carol faded, the band struck up crowd‑pleasers like Rudolph the Red‑Nosed Reindeer, sending children dancing and smiles rippling through the crowd.

It’s evenings like this that remind us how special shared spaces can be — spaces where music, story, and welcome weave us into a stronger community. In the future, we dream of hosting celebrations like this, and many others, in a permanent home such as the proposed lakeside faith land — a place where Northstowe’s traditions can take root and grow for generations.

Until then, we’ll keep singing by the tree each December, raising a glass to Christmas… and to the community we’re building together.

Find out more about Beer & Carols: northstowe.church/carols

Advent Windows – Lighting Up Northstowe, One Story at a Time

December 2024

Each December, as darkness falls early and the air turns cold, something beautiful begins to happen across Northstowe: windows start to glow. One by one, twenty-five homes, schools, community spaces and businesses light up with colour and creativity as part of our Advent Windows Trail — a living calendar of hope and welcome.

Now a well-loved Northstowe tradition, Advent Windows invites someone to decorate and “open” a new display each evening from 1–25 December. Some draw from the traditional nativity story — stars and shepherds, angels and stables — while others explore themes of light, peace, joy, and justice. Each window is unique, and yet together they tell a bigger story: one of anticipation, reflection, and community.

Families go out on foot to find the latest window, often bumping into neighbours doing the same. Children compare favourites. Adults stop to chat. And by Christmas Eve, a whole walking trail of illuminated windows winds through the town, linking strangers, stories, and streets.

It’s a simple idea  but it works. In a place like Northstowe, still growing and finding its shape, these quiet moments of creativity and connection matter deeply. They help us belong. They build tradition. They remind us we’re not alone in the waiting.

But even now, the light is already spreading — window by window, home by home.

🕯️ Discover more about Advent Windows : northstowe.church/advent

Northstowe’s Act of Remembrance: Standing Together in Memory and Hope

On Remembrance Sunday, Northstowe came together at Bug Hunters Water to remember, reflect, and recommit — hosting a moving, inclusive service led by Revd Beth Cope (Northstowe Church Network) and supported by our local town council, faith groups, schools, uniformed organisations, and residents.

We gathered beside the bridge to watch the uniformed organization parade around the lake, then join together  for a short ceremony. After greeting and community readings, we held two minutes of silence at 11:00 am, followed by wreath-laying led by representatives from the Town Council, Northstowe’s faith communities (including our Network), schools, cadet groups, and neighbours. Wreaths were respectfully carried to Longstanton war memorial afterward. 

Why We Remember

This annual gathering marks Northstowe’s growing identity while honouring the service and sacrifice of others. Each year focuses on shared themes. In 2022, we highlighted interfaith comradeship, including a poster competition led by Northstowe Muslims; this reminded us that people from many beliefs serve with courage and dedication. This year, we drew on The Royal British Legion theme for 2024 Acts of Remembrance: "“Service, Not Self" reflecting that 
"Today, we remember the horrors of war and the heroism of individuals through story and through silence, so that these may become real in the present and influence and inspire us to work for reconciliation, peace and justice in the future. "

Rooted and Reaching Forward

Our act of remembrance isn’t just about remembrance—it’s a call to live out values of peace, justice, and reconciliation in our own community. Stories, poems, and prayers spoken aloud invite us beyond the haze of history to learn from past heroism so we might shape a future rooted in kindness and truth. 

A Shared Service, A Shared Town

Northstowe, one of England’s newest towns, is still learning to build civic and spiritual identity together. This ceremony brought local residents, schools, religious partners—including the Northstowe Church Network and Northstowe Muslims—into shared silence and shared story.

 Light, Welcome, and Community on All Hallows’ Eve

As darkness fell on 31 October, Woodpecker Close came alive with lanterns, and the sound of neighbours greeting one another. Our All Hallows’ Eve celebration has become a Northstowe tradition — a chance to offer light and welcome at the turning of the season.

Children and families stopped by on their evening walk to warm up with toasted marshmallows and treats. There were craft activities for all ages  and an invitation to reflect on the deeper meaning of this ancient festival — honouring the saints and all who have gone before us.

For some, it was a quick stop on their way to trick‑or‑treating. For others, it was a moment of stillness in the midst of the evening bustle. But for everyone, it was a reminder that light shines in the darkness — and that our community is stronger when we gather, share, and celebrate together.

We’re thankful for all who helped make it happen, from those who prepared the refreshments to those who stayed to pack away at the end. It’s events like this that show how, even in a growing town, Northstowe’s heart is already beating with warmth, welcome, and hope.

🕯️ Find out more about the meaning behind All Hallows’ Eve: northstowe.church/all-hallows-eve

 

A fond farewell

Today, we started to say “farewell” to our curate, Revd Stephen Dove, as his “sign off” from his curacy (training post) approaches in early 2025. As sign off approaches, curates often undertaken placements. Stephen's will be to our sister villages in the 5folds team. We also shared news that another curate in the diocese, Revd Bethan Rodden, will be undertaking curacy placement here with us in Northstowe, joining us from Nov 11th - Dec 9th.

The Northstowe Church Network and the 5Folds Benefice have an announcement to make about the secondment of the Revd Stephen Dove from the Northstowe Church Network Mission Initiative to the 5fold Benefice as he completes his curacy and prepares for future ministry as an Anglican Priest and potential parish incumbent.   

This secondment is to help Stephen discern the shape of his future ministry within the Church of England.  

Revd Peter Leech, Director of Mission & Ministry has written: 

Within this, Stephen will continue in his part time role as Chaplain of The Pathfinder C of E Primary School until Christmas.  

Stephen will lead Northstowe’s Compline on the 31st October and a special All Saints service for Pathfinder Church on 3rd November. He will start his secondment taking Remembrance services in the 5folds villages.  

The Northstowe Church Network will have an opportunity to celebrate their role in training Stephen and thank God for his ministry amongst them as part of a Bring & Share Charcuterie Communion on Sunday 19th January at 3.30pm.  

So let us pray for Stephen and for each other as we move into this new season: 

God of our pilgrimage, you have led us to the living water: 
refresh and sustain us as we go forward on our journey, 
in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.

A celebration of ecumenical partnership

On Sunday 20th October 2024, representatives of the denominations connected to the Northstowe Church Network, as well as from The Pathfinder CofE Primary School, joined those from Pathfinder Church, Little Explorers, and the Compline Community for a service of celebration and commitment.
 
The service started with a reaffirmation of the Shared Vision between the local church and the regional Baptists, Methodists, URC, CofE and Quakers, recognising that over 20 years of shared prayer and planning among those involved in  Churches Together in Cambridgeshire had led to this day.  And now, in recognition of the even deeper partnership between those of URC, CofE and Baptist heritage here on the ground, the Northstowe Church Network has been established as three-way Local Ecumenical Partnership.
 
Revd Mark Burleigh, County Ecumenical Officer, highlighted that this is one way this new church, in a new town, is putting down roots into the traditions and practices that have long shaped Christianity. A Local Ecumenical Partnership invites all those who are part of the church into full membership of all three denominations and brings the regional bodies alongside them in their mission and ministry. Northstowe is the newest of the 11 LEPs in Cambridgeshire. Working together in this way is such a positive expression of the gospel!

Minister:

Today I bring myself and the gifts I have,
and I covenant to serve and encourage this church-network and community:
to respect and care for you, to journey with you,
to take responsibility among you,
to seek God with you, to listen to God in you,
and to work with you to be Christ in this world.

Those involved in the Northstowe Church Network:

Today we bring ourselves and the gifts we have,
and we covenant to serve and encourage
this church-network  and community:
to respect and care for each other,
to take responsibility for the people we are
and the people we hope to be in Christ,
and to encourage you as our minister
as we make this journey together.

Harvest Generosity: Supporting the Foodbank Together

This Harvest, we were delighted to partner once again with The Pathfinder C of E Primary School to collect donations for Cambridge City Foodbank. Together, families, pupils, and church members contributed generously — thank you to everyone who took part!

The donations were delivered to the Foodbank’s central warehouse in Cambridge, where they’re carefully sorted and packed to ensure each recipient receives a balanced parcel of long-lasting, nutritious food.

We were touched to receive this message from the Foodbank team:

"Thank you so much to everyone who contributed towards your collection, and thank you to you for hosting and delivering the collection! The generosity of the people of Cambridge is what enables us to continue to support those in need."
— Cambridge City Foodbank

As a town still building its infrastructure, Northstowe benefits directly from this wider network. Weekly foodbank parcels are delivered from the warehouse to the Northstowe Welcome Centre, ready for local collection.

This year, the team are also collecting extra sanitary items to include alongside food parcels — things like pads, tampons, and hygiene products that are often needed but less frequently donated. You can drop these off any time at The Cabin.

And if you’re reading this and realise that you’re the one in need this year — please know that it’s okay to ask for help. Anyone can find themselves in crisis.

Revd Beth is authorised to give out Foodbank vouchers that provide three days of emergency food. Parcels can be picked up in Northstowe on Wednesdays, or from other locations during the week.

If you’d like to talk, get in touch:
📧 contact@northstowe.church
📞 01954 261 181 (office hours)

Putting Our Feet Up at the Northstowe Running Festival

From the very first Northstowe Running Festival, we’ve loved being part of this brilliant community day — often lending gazebos, helping out, and serving as the Lost Children point. And every year, without fail, we take along our trusty deckchairs — ready to offer tired legs a place to rest and a friendly face to chat to.

In 2024, the Deckchairs Listening Project once again took pride of place. It was a wonderful day of big conversations and enthusiastic applause for the runners. Our deckchairs proved as popular as ever with those fresh from the finish line, grateful for the chance to put their feet up while still soaking in the festival atmosphere. We were perfectly positioned to cheer on the Family Mile too, and to catch up with friends from across the Northstowe Church Network and the wider community.

As part of our project, we invited people to reflect on what it feels like to pause and rest, gathering their thoughts for our colourful foot bunting — which continued to grow during the following day’s community BBQ.

As the sun went down, crowds stayed on to enjoy the Outdoor Cinema, with Northstowe Neighbours and The Greatest Showman lighting up the big screen, thanks to Northstowe Arts. It was the perfect ending to a day full of community spirit.

We’re already looking forward to celebrating the festival’s 5th birthday in 2025 — and to being there once again with our deckchairs, our welcome, and our loudest cheers.

Lights, Camera, Community!

We were delighted to play a small part in the making of Northstowe Neighbours — the brand‑new short film from Northstowe Arts, working with Homes England celebrating the people, places, and stories that make our town unique.

When the film crew visited one of our Gardening Mornings at The Pathfinder School, they were welcomed into the buzz of planting, watering, and chatting and got a real taste of our regular  community life. Several church members also took part in filming, sharing their voices and their stories alongside so many others from across Northstowe.

Revd Beth even features in one of the short companion films — you can watch it here: Northstowe Neighbours – Short Film.

It’s been wonderful to see how Northstowe Arts have woven together so many snapshots of local life into something creative, celebratory, and deeply rooted in this place. Huge thanks to the team for the opportunity to be involved — and for the fantastic way they’ve captured our growing town.

🎬 Find out more about the project and watch the main film here: northstowearts.co.uk/projects/northstowe-neighbours

A Joint Statement for Peace

To our fellow-residents in Northstowe & the Adjoining Villages
In view of the terrible violence across the UK in recent weeks, we wish to make a joint statement as leaders of faith groups in Northstowe, expressing our solidarity with those affected and our horror at recent events, even as we find hope in our local and national experiences of interfaith friendship and cooperation.

Specifically:

1. We honour the many people, of all religious and non-religious beliefs, coming together in solidarity and supporting each other as they work for peace, despite feeling scared, angered and even unsafe.
2. We condemn any violent protest, vandalism, rioting, and attacks on the police.
3. We condemn any harassment or violence against individuals or communities because of their beliefs, ethnicity or country of origin.
4. We are committed to the peaceful co-existence of people from different ethnicities, faiths, and worldviews in Northstowe.

The tendency to hate and blame those different to us is a widespread human problem, including at times in faith communities. But there is also good in every person. We have already seen many good examples of people in Northstowe, of all religious and non-religious beliefs, committing to welcome and getting to know those who are different to themselves. At this time, we encourage people to use the positive resources of their faith traditions to empower peace. Together, we will work for a strong and peaceful community for everyone in Northstowe and the adjoining villages.

As faith groups, we can offer a listening ear and welcoming communities to those who might be struggling to know how to respond to the current news. Please get in touch with us.
 

• Northstowe Muslims: contact@northstowemuslims.org (POC: Dr. Mohammad Waris Abdullah)
• Northstowe Church Network: contact@northstowe.church (POC: Rev.Dr.Beth Cope)
• Emmanuel Church Northstowe: contact@emmanuelchurchnorthstowe.org (POC: Staff Elder Josh Monteiro)
• Hindu Samaj Northstowe: : hindusamajnorthstowe@gmail.com (POC: Neal Patel)

The following online resources (not an exhaustive list) might also be helpful:

1. https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/find-help
2. https://haycambridge.co.uk/support/cambridge-ethnic-community-forum/
3. Hate crime | Cambridgeshire Constabulary (cambs.police.uk)

Deckchairs and Dreams at The Pathfinder School Fayre

Deckchairs in the Sunshine – Northstowe’s First Midsummer Festival 

Why the Northstowe Church Network signed up to be Voter Registration Champions

We started small, theologically, and democratically. Our reading of Scripture has convinced us that God cares about giving a voice to the voiceless, and empowering those who might otherwise be overlooked. At our Church Meeting, people shared stories and encouragement about why voting mattered to them - and some of the challenges faced locally. So we voted: and committed to encourage all of our eligible members  to get registered to vote in time for May's mayoral elections, and to start to spread the word about the new need for photographic ID at the polling stations.
Within a day of the Church Meeting, 100% of eligible members were registered to vote, and had checked their photo ID.  On polling day, members shared photos of themselves outside the polling station on the church WhatsApp, celebrating our new temporary community centre ("The Cabin") being used as a polling station for the first time. Being able to physically vote IN our own new town was encouraging: previously, lack of community spaces meant we had to vote in the neighbouring village.

When the General Election was announced, we started looking for resources to help us equip people not just to register, but to participate critically and constructively in the democratic process. The Joint Public Issues Team (JPIT) a partnership between the Baptist Union of Great Britain, the Methodist Church, and the United Reformed Church in the United Kingdom, have put out helpful resources encouraging everyone to LOVE, PRAY, VOTE. Their purpose is to help the Churches work together for peace and justice through listening, learning, praying, speaking, and acting on public policy issues.  We're using their resources within our Sunday and midweek gatherings, and sharing them on social media. Our thriving baby group ("Little Explorers") is also becoming a place where honest conversations about politics are being encouraged, as we share opportunities and resources with the carers, mums, and dads who join us week by week. 

We'd love to have been able to host a hustings. But, in these early stages of a new town, we don't yet have a church building - in fact, there are very few public spaces, or groups with the experience and resources to host such an event. However,  as a church, we're preparing to write to our local candidates and ask them some key questions. We look forward to sharing their responses locally.

We know we won't all agree on what's best for our new town, let alone the wider area. But our prayer (inspired by JPIT!)  is that the political debates will be characterised by listening, kindness and truthfulness; and that  voters will listen actively and demonstrate love-filled curiosity towards those they may disagree with or do not understand.

Read more about what we're sharing locally on our website: www.northstowe.church/vote

Gardening Mornings – Growing Together, Rooted in Northstowe

This spring, our Gardening Mornings at The Pathfinder School brought together an amazing mix of school families, church members, and neighbours to give the school’s green spaces a real boost.

On 23 March 2024, more than 40 volunteers — parents, children, and community friends — came to help clear the conservation area behind the playground. Even some long‑time locals were surprised to discover there’s a hidden pond there! Cllr Firouz Thompson captured the moment perfectly:

“Lovely to be part of the 40 volunteers last weekend to help clear the area… had no idea there was even a pond there! Massive well done to Susie at Friends of Pathfinder School, Beth and Stephen at Pathfinder Church Northstowe, and all the fabulous volunteers/parents/children 💚.”

We returned on 11 May to continue the transformation — planting, mulching, and caring for the area in the spring sunshine. Together, we’ve laid strong foundations for this special outdoor space to flourish.

We’re so grateful to everyone who has been part of this first stage. Your energy and teamwork have made a lasting difference — and we look forward to seeing how the space continues to grow in the months and years ahead.

The Methodist East Anglia District show support for Northstowe by signing a Shared Vision Statement

Today the Revd Dr Julian Pursehouse visited Northstowe in order to make a commitment, on behalf of the Methodist East Anglia District, to share in prayer for Northstowe and help deepen the relationship with the ecumenical community forming here (Christian traditions working together). He was accompanied by the Revd Colin Watkins, Ecumenical Officer for the Methodist East Anglia District, and the Revd Nick Witham (St Ives Methodist Church). As they enjoyed a coffee  with Northstowe's Revd Beth Cope in the Northstowe Hub Cafe at The Cabin, the group shared stories, dreamed dreams, and discussed practical ways to deepen the relationship.

The Shared Commitment, which has also been agreed by the Diocese of Ely (Church of England), the Eastern Synod of the United Reformed Church,  the Eastern Baptist Association (BUGB), and  the Cambridgeshire Area Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), as well as the local Northstowe Church Network, reads:

Together, we have committed to share in prayer for Northstowe, and provide practical support in setting up the right structures for the next stages:

• We commit ourselves to sharing together in the ministry of Christ to the world, and within this context to explore together the meaning and possibilities of unity for worship, evangelism, mission and service.
• We commit ourselves to assessing the resources of church and community in terms of people, money and buildings, and to deploying them in the best way in relation to the aspirations and needs of local people
• We commit ourselves to maintaining and developing relationships with our parent bodies and with Churches Together in Cambridgeshire (previously Cambridgeshire Ecumenical Council).

Pathfinder Church Northstowe launches the Northstowe Church Network in celebration of ecumenical and community partnership 

The new town of Northstowe is being built on former RAF land near Cambridge. Just 1,500 of the planned 10,000 homes (upward of 25,000 residents) have been built. But, already, this new town is characterised by people working together to make a difference. Pathfinder Church has brought together those from across the Christian traditions and those new to faith. As they have put down roots in Northstowe, their commitment to “praying, exploring, and sharing” has inspired partnerships with schools, councils, and developers. To allow more fresh expressions of church to form, and to facilitate new community partnerships and a potential new community centre, a new legal framework has been set up. The Northstowe Church Network is a local ecumenical partnership of the Church of England, United Reformed Church, and Baptist Union of Great Britain.  What unites those involved in this new charity is much more than denominational background. It is rooted, growing, and transforming faith based on an encounter with the eternal God who still changes lives today.

Long before the first brick was laid in Northstowe, Christians from across the traditions involved in Churches Together in Cambridgeshire were praying for the new town.  In 2018, the Church of England funded a Pioneer Minister, the Rev'd Dr Beth Cope, to partner with local residents and key stakeholders to build community encompassing those of all religious and non-religious beliefs. Part of this work would see the development of new missional and worshipping communities with and for those moving into the new town. These make space for people to ask questions and explore connections between everyday life and Christian spirituality centring on “The Pathfinder”, Jesus Christ.  

 

Soon, a small group of new residents came together to form Pathfinder Church Northstowe.  This community meets in, and has become part of the family, at The Pathfinder CofE Primary School: sharing in the life of the school family; supporting RE, Collective Worship, and wellbeing; and partnering to develop the school’s outside spaces. Like the school, the church takes their name both from Christian tradition and as a reflection on the local history of the Pathfinder Squadron who flew from the original airbase.  

 

Pathfinder Church have been working with the Diocese of Ely (Church of England), the Eastern Synod of the United Reformed Church, the Eastern Baptist Association, and the Cambridgeshire Area Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) to develop a shared ecumenical vision. This involves exploring together the meaning and possibilities of unity for worship, evangelism, mission and service. 

Today, in response to what God is doing, and the great opportunity in Northstowe, a framework is needed for the growing network of inclusive and diverse ecumenical worshipping and missional communities. Already, Pathfinder Church is being joined by Little Explorers (“time for you, your child, and God”), and the emerging Compline Community, who celebrate encounters with God through silence and poetic liturgies.  

 

The new charity, the Northstowe Church Network, will allow organic development of additional Christian communities for the people of Northstowe, making disciples of Jesus and serving the local community. Locally led, they will be part of a visible and sustainable network, not just sharing ecumenical governance but periodically coming together for joint prayer, worship, and to do things that could not be done alone.  

 

The Northstowe Church Network will also provide a robust governance structure for a potential new community centre, run in collaboration with residents, local authorities, voluntary and other organisations. The proposal is for a sensitively designed, open-hearted, lakeside venue, featuring adjoining internal and external worship and community spaces, allowing for private devotion, corporate prayer, worship services and the celebration of life events. It will be the main home for one or more missional and worshipping communities. A series of flexible spaces will allow not just the local church, but other community organisations, community services and faith groups to hire appropriate facilities. The entire site will be used for worship when the whole church gathers, such as at festivals and seasonal gatherings, complementing the ongoing use of other hired spaces across Northstowe. Thus the Northstowe Church Network aims to offer a peaceful, prayerful presence, having the confidence to hold the ministry of hospitality and loving service alongside acts of Christian worship. 

 

Mark Burleigh, of Churches Together in Cambridgeshire says, “I am excited by this fantastic example of how Christians are working together to serve the local residents, sharing the light and love of Christ in Northstowe.  It is great to see Christians working together at grass roots to help nurture life and hope in this developing community.”