Special Events
CAROLS IN THE SQUARE – 3.30PM THIS SUNDAY 8 DECEMBER Join us in Radcliffe Square for carol singing, accompanied by the City of Oxford Silver Band, in aid of the Porch. The Porch provides a stepping stone to those who are homeless or vulnerably housed, with a wide range of support available including daily hot meals at their café. You can find out more at: www.theporch.org.uk
CHRISTMAS BOXES FOR ASYLUM SEEKERS Over the past four years the congregation of St. Mary’s has generously filled boxes of Christmas gifts to the children of asylum seekers accommodated in a local hotel. This project has brought much happiness to families gathered for a Christmas party. This year there are 64 boxes to be filled with small presents for children and young adults of various ages. The boxes will be available to collect on Sundays and need to be returned by 15 December. We will also give gifts to the adults, which we will buy centrally. If you would like to donate towards this, please make a donation here and reference it FinA Christmas.
SERVER TRAINING – NEXT SUNDAY 15 DEC There will be a brief training session for all servers (new and experienced) next Sunday at 11.45am after the service. All are very welcome, especially if you are considering joining the serving team and would like to find out more about what’s involved with no commitment. Ellie and Hannah will walk through the different roles of thurifer (incense), crucifer (cross), and acolyte (candles). Subdeacons (lay representative at the altar) are also welcome to come along for a refresher.
SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION, ‘CONFESSION’ AVAILABLE Some find that the opportunity for individual confession and reconciliation can help them to lay burdens down and prepare their hearts to celebrate the joy of Christmas. Please contact a member of the clergy if you would like to find a time to make your confession in this season of Advent, or any time, as the need arises. | 
