Subject: News from the University Church

Sing to the Lord


by Alison LeCornu


One of our recent visiting preachers slipped into her sermon the fact that her PhD research had focused on the theology of Methodist hymnody.

Hymns are an integral part of the worship of most Christian denominations. In the last few decades hymnody has evolved significantly, with different denominations and individual churches emphasising a range of musical styles and, perhaps covertly, a similar range of understandings of their purpose and place in a service. In relatively traditional churches such as the University Church Oxford we follow a very Anglican structure. Hymns are carefully selected and placed at specific points in the Eucharist. Our service booklet identifies their role: a Processional hymn as we gather for worship. “Oh worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness”. “Hail to the Lord’s Anointed! Great David’s greater Son”. A Gradual hymn which is sung immediately before the reading of the Gospel and signifies its proclamation to the people of God: “The people that in darkness set a glorious light have seen. The light has shined on them who long in shades of death have been.” An Offertory hymn which allows us to offer ourselves and what we have to God: “We three kings of Orient are; bearing gifts we traverse afar”. “Here our humblest homage pay we, here in loving reverence bow”. A Post-communion hymn in which we are invited to express our wonder and gratitude: “Now thank we all our God with hearts and hands and voices.” “Extol the God of justice with heart and soul and voice; remember all his wonders, recount them and rejoice.”


Read the whole editorial here.


Eco Hints for February


Go green for Lent. The weeks leading up to Easter are a time for self reflection, repentance and emulating Jesus’ obedience to the Father. Is there something you’d like to give up

or take up during Lent that will enable you to reflect on God, contribute to our planet’s well-being and enhance others’ lives through sustainable, ecofriendly living? Explore some of these changes at arocha.org.uk/go-greenfor-lent/

Notices


ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICES - 14 FEBRUARY

There will be two opportunities to receive the imposition of ashes at the Eucharist; 12.15pm and 8.00pm. At 8pm the service will be an intercollegiate choral eucharist, sung by chapel choirs from across the collegiate university. All are very welcome.


READ WITH FAITH IN ACTION THROUGH LENT

Join us as we read the Archbishop of Canterbury's Lent Book for 2024 by Selina Stone - Tary Awhile: wisdom from Black spirituality for people of faith. We will be reading the book at our own pace but encourage all to share our learning and reflections among the congregation and within our other networks to prompt wider conversation. Copies are widely available but we also have a few to loan out. Please speak to Hannah if you would like to borrow a copy.


SUNDAY FORUM - 12NOON NEXT SUNDAY 18 FEBRUARY

Join us in the Old Library for the second Sunday forum of the term: 'Unapologetic:

Lessons from Second Century Christians for Intelligent Discourse in Contemporary Culture' given by the Revd Canon Dr Alvyn Pettersen.


PARISH LUNCH - 12NOON SUNDAY 25 FEBRUARY

All are very welcome to come to the parish lunch on 25th February and we would be very grateful for contributions of food. Please speak to Katie Hicks if you are able to bring a dish or help out on the day.


MULTI-FACETED MOTHERING - 10AM SATURDAY 9 MARCH

The traditional image of mothering can stir in us a range of responses, emotions, and experiences. Can you help us to shape a space in which all can creatively explore the multi-faceted nature of mothering in an inclusive, gentle, and prayerful way?

If you would be happy to help, please contact Hannah or Gabrielle Conway-Morris.


FAITH IN ACTION - GIVING UPDATE

Thanks to the generosity of the congregation, in 2023 we gave financial gifts to a number of causes including £2k to Littlemore Church, which supported them in providing direct assistance to families and children experiencing poverty and to isolated older people and those with mental health needs, and £2k to Oxfam (the Old Library is where the first meeting of Oxfam took place) to continue their work in poverty-relief across the globe. We have also given gifts of £250 each to the Hidden Spire project, Oxford Community Action, the Gatehouse, and to the Oxford Food Hub (in memory of Janet Greenland who volunteered there for many years).


COFFEE AND DOUGHNUTS: 11.15AM WEDNESDAYS

During Term 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.


FREE LUNCHTIME RECITAL SERIES: 1.00PM THURSDAYS

Our Thursday lunchtime recital series continues, featuring students from the Royal Academy of Music. You are welcome to bring your lunch to eat in church. These recitals are free and open to all.


BIBLE STUDY: 12.45PM FRIDAYS

This term, we will be studying the Book of Esther. The Book of Esther presents a tale about a courageous woman who saves her people. Everyone is welcome.


GATEHOUSE

On the first Thursday of each month some members of the congregation make soup or sandwiches for the Gatehouse and we are in need of some additional volunteers. There is guidance available about what is required, allergen labels are supplied and there are a number of options for contributions to be collected or delivered. Please speak to Patricia O’Neill if you would like to help.


BAPTISM AND CONFIRMATION

If you would like to take the next step in faith and be baptised or confirmed on May 12th 2024, there will be classes taking place on Tuesday lunchtimes in the Old Library, 12.45pm – 1.30pm. For more info contact Hannah: hannah.cartwright@universitychurch.ox.ac.uk


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!

St Mary's Church, High Street, OX1 4BJ, Oxford, United Kingdom

You may unsubscribe or change your contact details at any time.

Powered by:
GetResponse

    This is an online snapshot of a newsletter created by the owner of universitychurch (University Church of St Mary, St Mary's Church, High Street, OX1 4BJ Oxford, United Kingdom) and sent via GetResponse on 2024-02-09. Report abuse