| | ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’
by the Revd Hannah Cartwright
Like many, I have watched the events of the last week in a state of helpless horror at the unfolding hatred which one human can visit upon another, through a web of mis-information and mis-directed anger. I have been more disturbed still, that the violence has been both deeply racist and often perpetrated against people who are already in incredibly vulnerable positions, such as those seeking asylum. But it is no use for me to be an outraged bystander, or to cross over the road to my nice comfortable abode while my neighbour lies bloodied and beaten in the street, and the organisations and fellow religious communities which work so hard to ensure their safety then find themselves to be targeted too.
My faith demands more.
Faith requires us to put aside partisan politics; to let go of working-assumptions; to educate ourselves; to meet people face to face; to challenge casually racist, xenophobic, and discriminatory language; to stand in solidarity with people of all faiths who seek peace; and to make a real contribution to ease the devastating loss of safety and security which those, who are the target of such violence, experience.
To love our neighbour in these times, we will be called upon to respond in myriad ways: some will march in solidarity, some will offer support to affected families, some will befriend individuals in need, some will contribute to the work of charities, some will advocate for those unheard, and some will commit to working on themselves and the unhealthy institutional cultures they encounter. The question is not ‘should I help’ but ‘how should I help’.
When your neighbour needs you, how will you respond? www.asylum-welcome.org | | This Sunday
8.30am Holy Eucharist - Chancel
Preacher: The Revd Canon Dr William Lamb
10.30am Sung Eucharist - Nave Preacher: Dr Sarah Mortimer 3.30pm Choral Evensong
| | This Week
Monday 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel
Tuesday 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel
Wednesday 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel
Thursday 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel
Friday 9.00 Morning Prayer - Chancel 12.15 Eucharist - Chancel
| | | | | 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
GODLY PLAY – 10.30AM NEXT SUNDAY 11 AUGUST Godly Play takes place monthly in the Old Library during the first 45 minutes of the 10.30am service for children aged 3-8 years old and their family. The next Godly Play will take place on 11th August and we will spend some time in nature together. If you would like more information, or to explore volunteering with the Godly Play team, please speak to a member of the clergy.
LEGO CHURCH – 2PM SATURDAY 20 AUGUST Go bricks mad this August with our special service of building and making. Whether you’re a Lego novice or whether you dream in bricks, you’re welcome to try your abilities and see what you can construct. We will use Lego to explore a Bible story, to think about what we’re grateful for, to consider our emotions, and to pray together. Suitable from 4+, no booking needed.
COFFEE AND DOUGHNUTS - 11.15AM WEDNESDAY 21 AUGUST There is a special summer Coffee and Doughnuts on 21st August 11.15am-12pm in the De Brome Chapel. All are welcome to drop in for a coffee and chat.
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 SUNDAYS 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. | | | Care for Creation - August
Assist local wildlife during very hot weather. Provide hedgehogs with hedgehog biscuits (available at many pet stores and online) or dog biscuits (small/ crumbed) as their prey of slugs, snails and worms diminishes, and ensure a safe exit for them and other small mammals if you have a garden pond. Help garden birds by maintaining a filled bird bath and supplying supplementary food including black sunflower seeds, pinhead oatmeal, soaked sultanas, raisins, currants, mealworms, waxworms, and a nutritious seed mixture, when natural supplies become scarce. More tips can be found at arocha.org.uk/looking-after-wildlifeinthe-heat/ From: https://arocha.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ARUK-Eco-Tips-Calendar-2024.pdf | |
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