| | Hope and Desire
by Dr Sarah Mortimer
Writing to the Ephesians, Paul prays that they may know 'the hope to which God has called you' (1.18) and that this hope might draw them together. The Church of the Ephesians had plenty of faith and goodwill, but it was also fractious and divided, unable to imagine how those of different backgrounds and identities could live and worship together as one. So Paul tells them what they need is hope - hope that it is possible to share together in God's infinite and eternal grace. In that hope, and only in that hope, will they be able to put aside their fear and anxieties, welcoming each other as fellow citizens of God’s glorious kingdom, which is now and also to come.
Paul’s encouragement to hope has seemed powerful these last few weeks, so full of change, excitement, and uncertainty of all kinds – from national elections to the European championships. To Paul, what grounds our hope is not our own vision or our own decisions, nor the decisions of those we choose to lead and represent us, though these genuinely matter within our societies. For the foundation of true hope is the gospel, the love of God revealed in Christ. And if we allow that love to fill our hearts then, as this week’s Collect reminds us, we will find that God’s gifts and promises will not be limited by our own imaginations, but will ‘exceed all that we can desire’, for us and for all God’s people. | | This Sunday
8.30am Holy Eucharist - Chancel
Preacher: The Revd Dr Jane Baun
10.30am Sung Eucharist - Nave Preacher: The Revd Professor William Whyte 3.30pm Choral Evensong
| | This Week
Monday Bonaventure 1274, Swithun c.862, 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel
Tuesday 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 9.30 Oxford Academic - Church Closed until 12noon 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel
Wednesday 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel
Thursday Benedict c.550 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel 13.00 Free Lunchtime Concert - Nave
Friday Gregory c.394 & & Macrina c.379 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel
Saturday 1pm - Wedding - Church Closed 12noon-3pm
| | | | | Current Exhibition
Faith
1 July - 15 September Adam de Brome Chapel
Faith is the complete trust and confidence in someone, something, or a concept,’ says Rob Judges, reflecting on the essence of his latest photographic exhibition. Titled ‘Faith,’ this exhibition explores the profound expressions of religious devotion across the boundaries of denomination and religious affiliation. Emerging themes such as the importance of food, light, and water— basic elements that nourish life—are beautifully grouped together in this collection. Inspired by a survey revealing that less than 50% of people in the UK identify as religious, Rob felt it was timely to document this aspect of society. ‘Many people of faith, initially wary, soon became warm, calm, confident, and welcoming,’ says Judges. ‘Some were very reticent, but in the end, I have captured a view of Faith that resonates deeply.’ Rob hopes these images will resonate with both people of faith and secular viewers, appreciating the strength and serenity that Faith imparts. The exhibition also continues to grow, and he invites anyone with ideas or from unrepresented faiths to contact him at rob@robjudges.com. | | Special Events
OXTRAIL – 6 JULY - 29 AUGUST This summer, we are proud to be working with Sobell House, our local hospice, and hosting one of the Oxen, which will form part of the Oxtrail initiative. This sculpture trail in Oxford’s city centre is made up of 31 bold and beautiful life-sized sculptures intricately designed by local and international artists. For more information visit: www.oxtrail2024.co.uk and please make a donation to support Sobell House.
CHORAL EVENSONG SUMMER SERIES – 3.30PM THIS SUNDAY The summer series of Choral Evensongs begin next week and run throughout July and August. The form of service was devised during the English Reformation by Archbishop Thomas Cranmer, who would later be martyred in Oxford. His trial took place at the University Church. The service is sung by the University Church Choir and draws on the Christian Scriptures and the ancient monastic offices of Vespers and Compline; it offers a simple, elegant framework for reflection and prayer. Everyone is welcome.
STORYTELLING WORKSHOP – 10AM MONDAY 29 JULY This half-day workshop is aimed at children aged 7-12 with a passion for stories, whether that is reading them, watching them, writing them, or acting them out. Sign up here.
| | | Care for Creation - July
Taste the benefits of seasonal and local food. Plan to incorporate locally grown produce into your diet and shopping list throughout the seasons, as it is harvested at its peak ripeness, ensuring superior flavour compared to imported alternatives that have travelled thousands of miles. If saying grace before a meal is a regular practice in your household, this month, include giving thanks for your local food producers. From: https://arocha.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ARUK-Eco-Tips-Calendar-2024.pdf | |
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