| | Supporting truth
by Dr Sarah Mortimer The last few weeks have shown the power of misinformation, especially when social media is used to increase prejudice and drive people apart. It can seem like a very modern phenomenon – a child of the age of Facebook and X aka twitter. But the word ‘misinformation’ is in fact remarkably old, first used in the late 1500s, and the problem far older. For we human beings have a tendency to shift and rework stories and ideas in ways that suit our interests, sometime subtly and innocently, sometime with more sinister purposes. And those stories gain their own momentum, changing how we see ourselves and our communities.
In the book of Acts, we hear how the early Christians dealt with the misinformation around them and their faith. From the start they were cast as seditious troublemakers, betraying the values of their tradition. Then, when the movement attracted gentiles and ‘foreigners’, there was gossip, rumour, and much anxiety about the influx of strangers. For the Apostles, though, these were opportunities not for anger or retaliation but to tell once more the true story of God’s relationship with humans, a story of hope and inclusion. And always their story was backed with evidence, as they used Scripture and history and the resources of their tradition to demonstrate the credibility of what they were saying. This was no mere opinion, floating free of reality, but truth grounded in more than their own words. In a world where lies and misinformation can still be so destructive, perhaps we too can take inspiration from their commitment to truth, to evidence, and to the possibility of persuasion. | | This Sunday
8.30am Holy Eucharist - Chancel
Preacher: The Revd Naomi Gardom
10.30am Sung Eucharist - Nave Preacher: Revd Max Kramer 3.30pm Choral Evensong
| | | | | | | 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
LEGO CHURCH – 2PM TUESDAY 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 this week and run throughout 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.
COMMUNITY EMERGENCY FOODBANK – CAN YOU HELP? The Community Emergency Foodbank (CEF) is currently in particular need of toiletries (such as tooth paste & brushes, shower gel, deodorant), as well as disposable nappies and nappy pants for young children. The CEF box is put out every week during the 10.30 service to collect donations. Thank you to all those who regularly donate generously to this church-based charity. | | 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 |
|
|
