“For me, bringing life is often about being present. It’s about creating space where people feel seen, heard, and valued — whether that’s in a funeral visit, a toddler group, a school assembly, or a chance conversation in a café.

Tim Yau is currently the Interim Associate Priest in the Parish of Sprowston. He continues: "It’s also about nurturing small, hopeful signs of the Kingdom — moments where grace is obvious and abundant. I think we bring life by walking alongside people, listening deeply, and trusting that God is already at work in the lives we’re invited to share.”

“My role is both pastoral and practical — rooted in prayer, collaboration, and presence. I help oversee the day-to-day life of St Cuthbert’s and St Mary & St Margaret’s Churches alongside a dedicated ministry team.”

“As Rural Dean, I am appointed by the Bishop of Norwich to help support and encourage the 18 churches and the clergy across the Norwich North Deanery, which includes resourcing and advocating for them in their ministries."

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Once a pre-schooler asked me what I do and I said to them: ‘My job is to be a friend to everyone, to help them be friends with each other, and friends with God.’”

From leading church services and supporting those preparing for baptisms, weddings, and funerals, to safeguarding responsibilities, and developing new outreach opportunities, Tim seeks to serve with faithfulness and care. He continues:

“At its heart, the role is about holding space for others — in worship, in pastoral need, and in the quiet, prayerful work of sustaining a faithful, responsive church.”

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Bringing life in a place of loss

“We do a lot of funerals in Sprowston, so when I was looking for something to give to bereaved families, I discovered the Living with Loss booklet."

“I have found Living with Loss to be a gentle and sensitive way to share hope and comfort with those in grief— it feels like a pastoral gift that respects people’s pain without rushing to resolve it."

“It has become my go-to resource in bereavement ministry — whether it's left out in our quiet prayer corner at church, used in a pastoral conversation, or given to a family at funeral planning visitation. The language is accessible without being patronising, and its thoughtful design invites reflection, rather than demanding answers.

“For one individual, Living with Loss sparked a conversation about the life after death, heaven, faith and following Jesus. The gift of a Living with Loss booklet was the catalyst that allowed them ask deep questions, beyond the admin of planning the funeral.”

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