Subject: News from the University Church

Truth deep within


by Dr Sarah Mortimer


Psalm 51 runs through Lent like a refrain. On Ash Wednesday we heard it all, with its words of penitence and its plea to God for mercy and forgiveness. And verses from it are woven into prayers, like the Lenten collect which calls on God to 'create and make in us new and contrite hearts' for, as the Psalmist assures us, 'a contrite heart God will not despise'. The Psalm reminds us all of our need for contrition, especially in the original meaning of sorrow for sin that arises from love of God - rather than fear of punishment.


Yet all this emphasis on sin can feel a little overwhelming and even in Psalm 51 we are reminded that God invites us not only to repent but into the ‘joy of salvation’. For what God desires is 'truth deep within me', the truth that does not hide who I am but allows God's light to shine into the deepest places of our hearts and souls, so that we might not simply be sorry, but truly be healed and restored. Then, says the psalmist, we will sing to God, and live by God's gracious spirit. The Psalm's balance of emotions, of praise and repentance, joy and sorrow, reflects our human experience and our relationships with God and each other. And that balance is part, too, of our Lenten calendar, for this 'Refreshment' Sunday we remember God's comfort and sustaining grace, even as we continue to pray for God's mercy.

Eco Hints for March


Celebrate Spring. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the season – breathe in the fragrance of blossoms, observe budding catkins, note different bird songs, spot footprints, or use the PlantNet app to identify spring flowers. Nature can boost our happiness, so spend time in your garden, on your balcony, and in local green spaces.

Dedicate quality time to appreciate creation’s beauty, and thank God for the hope that spring can bring with our Lent resources at arocha.org.uk/connect-with-gods-creation-overlent/

Notices


MULTI-FACETED MOTHERING - 10AM SATURDAY 9 MARCH

Mothering is wonderful, it’s tough and it’s always messy! The traditional image of mothering can stir in us a range of responses, emotions and experiences; but mothering is a community endeavour which many of us can share in, whatever our gender, family situation or life-experience. Come and join us as we creatively explore the multi-faceted nature of mothering in an inclusive, gentle and prayerful space. All people are very welcome and there will be craft and prayer activities available for children too.


ECUMENICAL TAIZE PRAYER (WPCU) - 1pm, TUESDAY 12 MARCH

Join us for a special, simple ecumenical service of sung Taize Prayer after the Eucharist on 12th March. The service is organised in collaboration with the Churches Together in Central Oxford.

ECUMENICAL TAIZE PRAYER - 1PM TUES 12 MARCH

Join us for a special, simple ecumenical service of sung Taizé Prayer after the Eucharist on 12th March. The service is organised in collaboration with the Churches Together in Central Oxford.


STEWARDS, CHALICE BEARERS & SERVING TEAM

If you would like to join our friendly team of stewards, servers, or chalice bearers, who assist with a variety of services, we would love to hear from you. Full training is given. To find out more email: hannah.cartwright@universitychurch.ox.ac.uk


ELECTORAL ROLL

If you are baptised and over the age of 16, and are either resident in the parish or have regularly attended worship here for the last 6 months, you are eligible to join the church electoral roll. This enables you to attend and vote at the annual parochial church meeting and to stand as a member of the PCC. We update the electoral roll annually so if you would like to join or to amend your details, please pick up a form from the back of church.


READ WITH FAITH IN ACTION THROUGH LENT

Join us in reading the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Lent Book by Selina Stone -Tary Awhile: wisdom from Black spirituality for people of faith. Please speak to Hannah if you would like to borrow a copy.


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 concert series continues, featuring students from the Royal Academy of Music. These recitals are free and open to all.


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 2024-03-20. Report abuse