Notices
CHORAL EVENSONG: 3.30PM, THIS SUNDAY
Join us for Choral Evensong according to the Book of Common Prayer, sung by the University Church Choir, at which Dr Sarah Mortimer will preach. The service draws on Scripture and the ancient monastic offices of Vespers and Compline, offering a simple, elegant framework for reflection and prayer.
RESOLVED TO SERVE EXHIBITION
From October to December St Mary's will be hosting an exhibition 'Resolved to Serve'. Commissioned by the Diocese of Oxford, this portrait exhibition celebrates Black culture and its influence in the Church today.
COFFEE & DOUGHNUTS: 11.15AM WEDNESDAYS
During term-time we are offering Coffee and Doughnuts on Wednesday mornings in the De Brome Chapel. Do come and invite others for this weekly informal chance to drop in and chat - all are welcome!
FREE LUNCHTIME CONCERT SERIES: 1PM THURSDAYS
Our lunchtime recital series continue this term as we welcome students from the Royal Academy of Music to perform. All are welcome to enjoy these free concerts during the lunch hour.
BIBLE STUDY ON THE BOOK OF TOBIT: 12.45PM FRIDAYS
This term, we will be studying the Book of Tobit, which is found in the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament. Tobit is a beautiful story, full of humour and adventure. It is a work of fiction, which has inspired countless representations in art and literature. Each week, we will explore the theological insights offered by Tobit, as well as its cultural legacy.
HARVEST IN HOLYWELL: 2PM TUESDAY 24th OCTOBER
Children of all ages and their adults are warmly invited to join us as we gather at The University Church at 2pm and Emma Womersley-Sharp leads us on a short walk (circa 0.5 mile) to Holywell Cemetery to explore its natural treasures together. Places are limited so, to ensure there are plenty of mini nature hunt resources for everyone, do sign up on the website ahead of time to let us know if you plan to come.
READ WITH FAITH IN ACTION FOR BLACK HISTORY MONTH
This Black History Month (October), you are invited to join the Faith in Action Group in reading Why I'm No Longer Talking to White People About Race by Reni Eddo-Lodge. Described as ‘the book which sparked a national conversation’ it explores many topics, from ‘eradicated black history to the inextricable link between class and race’. Copies are widely available in book shops and online but if you would like to borrow a copy you would be very welcome to, just let Hannah know. You are encouraged to share your reflections with others in the congregation and in your social, work and study circles to keep this important conversation going.
VICAR’S SLEEPOUT
On World Homeless Day (10th October), the Vicar will be joining colleagues from the Collegiate University, the world of business, and civic representatives on a Sleepout organised by the Oxfordshire Homeless Movement to raise money to support its work with the homeless. If you would like to sponsor him, please visit this link.
POETRY HOUR: 5.30PM WEDNESDAY, 18 OCTOBER, ADAM DE BROME CHAPEL
Poetry Hour is a forum for a diverse group of poets who have been reading and writing poetry together since 2015 in a relaxed and supportive environment. This week we are reading and responding to a section from Alice Oswald's wonderful book-length poem Dart (published by Faber & Faber).
SUPPORTING OUR MINISTRY
If you would like to support the ministry of the University Church, you may wish to make a cash donation at the offertory or via the contactless card machine by the High Street entrance. You can also make a donation online (please use the QR code) through the Parish Giving Scheme or by sending a text: Text "SMV X" to 70085 to donate £X. E.g.: "SMV 5" to 70085 will donate £5.00. Texts cost £X plus one standard rate message. Thank you!
