Phyllis Webster
It is with sadness that we note the death recently of Phyllis Webster. Her funeral mass was held at St Barnabas' Church on Tuesday 5th December. Together with Jack, her husband, Phyllis was a regular supporter of the chapter until illness prevented her attendance at chapter meetings. Our kindest thoughts and prayers are with Jack and the family at this time. + May she rest in peace and rise in glory.
The Guild Office
Introduction
V/. O God, make speed to save us.
R/. O Lord, may haste to help us.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Alleluia. (omitted in Lent)
In Lent
V/. Praise be to thee, O Lord.
R/. King of eternal glory.
Psalmody
Ant. It is well seen, O God* how thou goest; how thou, my God and king, goest in thy sanctuary. (Alleluia).
Psalm 18
24 Therefore shall the Lord reward me after my righteous dealing : and according unto the cleanness of my hands in his eye-sight.
25 With the holy thou shalt be holy : and with a perfect man thou shalt be perfect.
26 With the clean thou shalt be clean : and with the froward thou shalt learn frowardness.
27 For thou shalt save the people that are in adversity : and shalt bring down the high looks of the proud.
28 Thou also shalt light my candle : the Lord my God shall make my darkness to be light.
29 For in thee I shall discomfit an host of men : and with the help of my God I shall leap over the wall.
30 The way of God is an undefiled way : the word of the Lord also is tried in the fire; he is the defender of all them that put their trust in him.
31 For who is God, but the Lord : or who hath any strength, except our God?
32 It is God, that girdeth me with strength of war : and maketh my way perfect.
33 He maketh my feet like harts' feet : and setteth me up on high.
34 He teacheth mine hands to fight : and mine arms shall break even a bow of steel.
35 Thou hast given me the defence of thy salvation : thy right hand also shall hold me up, and thy loving correction shall make me great.
36 Thou shalt make room enough under me for to go : that my footsteps shall not slide.
37 I will follow upon mine enemies, and overtake them : neither will I turn again till I have destroyed them.
38 I will smite them, that they shall not be able to stand : but fall under my feet.
39 Thou hast girded me with strength unto the battle : thou shalt throw down mine enemies under me.
40 Thou hast made mine enemies also to turn their backs upon me : and I shall destroy them that hate me.
41 They shall cry, but there shall be none to help them : yea, even unto the Lord shall they cry, but he shall not hear them.
42 I will beat them as small as the dust before the wind : I will cast them out as the clay in the streets.
43 Thou shalt deliver me from the strivings of the people : and thou shalt make me the head of the heathen.
44 A people whom I have not known : shall serve me.
45 As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me : but the strange children shall dissemble with me.
46 The strange children shall fail : and be afraid out of their prisons.
47 The Lord liveth, and blessed be my strong helper : and praised be the Lord of my salvation;
48 Even the God that seeth that I be avenged : and subdueth the people unto me.
49 It is he that delivereth me from my cruel enemies, and setteth me up above mine adversaries : thou shalt rid me from the wicked man.
50 For this cause will I give thanks unto thee, O Lord, among the Gentiles : and sing praises unto thy Name.
51 Great prosperity giveth he unto his King : and sheweth loving-kindness unto David his Anointed, and unto his seed for evermore.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen.
Ant. It is well seen, O God how thou goest; how thou, my God and king, goest in thy sanctuary. (Alleluia).
Ant. Give unto the Lord the glory* due unto his name; bring an offering and come before him; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. (Alleluia).
Psalm 84
1 O how amiable are thy dwellings : thou Lord of hosts!
2 My soul hath a desire and longing to enter into the courts of the Lord : my heart and my flesh rejoice in the living God.
3 Yea, the sparrow hath found her an house, and the swallow a nest where she may lay her young : even thy altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.
4 Blessed are they that dwell in thy house : they will be alway praising thee.
5 Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee : in whose heart are thy ways.
6 Who going through the vale of misery use it for a well : and the pools are filled with water.
7 They will go from strength to strength : and unto the God of gods appeareth every one of them in Sion.
8 O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer : hearken, O God of Jacob.
9 Behold, O God our defender : and look upon the face of thine Anointed.
10 For one day in thy courts : is better than a thousand.
11 I had rather be a door-keeper in the house of my God : than to dwell in the tents of ungodliness.
12 For the Lord God is a light and defence : the Lord will give grace and worship, and no good thing shall he withhold from them that live a godly life.
13 O Lord God of hosts : blessed is the man that putteth his trust in thee.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen.
Ant. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; bring an offering and come before him; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. (Alleluia).
Ant. Lord, I have loved* the habitation of thy house and the place where thy honour dwelleth. (Alleluia).
Psalm 122
1 I was glad when they said unto me : we will go into the house of the Lord.
2 Our feet shall stand in thy gates : O Jerusalem.
3 Jerusalem is built as a city : that is at unity in itself.
4 For thither the tribes go up, even the tribes of the Lord : to testify unto Israel, to give thanks unto the Name of the Lord.
5 For there is the seat of judgement : even the seat of the house of David.
6 O pray for the peace of Jerusalem : they shall prosper that love thee.
7 Peace be within thy walls : and plenteousness within thy palaces.
8 For my brethren and companions' sakes : I will wish thee prosperity.
9 Yea, because of the house of the Lord our God : I will seek to do thee good.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen.
Ant. Lord, I have loved the habitation of thy house and the place where thy honour dwelleth. (Alleluia).
The Short Chapter
From the rising up of the sun unto the going down of the same my Name shall be great among the Gentiles; and in every place incense shall be offered unto my Name, and a pure offering; for my Name shall be great among the heathen, saith the Lord of hosts. Mal. i. 11.
R/.Thanks be to God
Office Hymn
When the Patriarch was returning,
crowned with triumph from the fray,
him the peaceful king of Salem
came to meet upon his way,
meekly bearing bread and wine
holy priesthood's aweful sign.
On the truth thus dimly shadow'd
later days a lustre shed;
when the great high king eternal,
under forms of wine and bread,
for the world's imortal food
gave His flesh and gave His blood.
Wondrous gift! the word who moulded
all things by his might divine;
bread to be his body maketh
and his very blood the wine;
what though sense no change perceive,
faith admires, adores, believes.
He, who once to die a victim
on the cross did not refuse,
day by day upon our altars
that same sacrifice renews
through his holy priesthood's hands,
faithful to his last commands.
While the people all uniting
in that sacrifice sublime,
offer Christ to his high Father,
offer up themselves with him;
then together with the priest
on the living victim feast.
Laud and honour to the Father,
laud and honour to the Son,
laud and honour to the Spirit,
ever three and ever one,
consubstatial, co-eternal,
while unending ages run. Amen.
V/. I will go unto the altar of God. (Alleluia).
R/. Even unto the God of my joy and gladness. (Alleluia).
The Gospel Canticle
Ant. Samuel ministered unto the Lord* girded with a linen ephod. (Alleluia).Magnificat
1 My soul doth magnify the Lord: and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
2 For he hath regarded : the lowliness of his handmaiden.
3 For behold, from henceforth : all generations shall call me blessed.
4 For he that is mighty hath magnified me : and holy is his Name.
5 And his mercy is on them that fear him : throughout all generations.
6 He hath showed strength with his arm : he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
7 He hath put down the mighty from their seat : and hath exalted the humble and meek.
8 He hath filled the hungry with good things : and the rich he hath sent empty away.
9 He remembering his mercy hath holpen his servant Israel : as he promised to our forefathers, Abraham and his seed, for ever.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son : and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be : world without end. Amen.
Ant. Samuel ministered unto the Lord girded with a linen ephod. (Alleluia).
The Collect
V/. The Lord be with you.
R/. And with thy spirit.
Let us pray.
Grant, we beseech thee, almighty God,
to us thy servants the spirit of holy fear;
that we, following the example of thy holy child Samuel,
may faithfully minister before thee in thy sanctuary;
through Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord,
who liveth and reigneth with thee
in the unity of the Holy Ghost,
ever one God, world without end. Amen.
Here may follow the memorials.
Conclusion
V/. The Lord be with you.
R/. And with thy spirit.
V/. Let us bless the Lord.
R/. Thanks be to God.
+ May the souls of the faithful through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Memorial of St Birinus
Ant. How beautiful upon the mountains* are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings. (Alleluia).
V/. I have called you friends says the Lord.
R/. For all that the Father has told me I have made known to you.
Let us pray.
Everlasting God,
whose servant Birinus carried the good news of thy Son
to the people of Wessex:
by his prayers, grant that we who commemorate his service
may know the hope of the gospel in our hearts
and manifest its light in all our ways;
through Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord,
who liveth and reigneth with thee,
in the unity of the Holy Ghost,
ever one God, world without end. Amen
21st November - St Andrew's Headington
The chapter met to offer Mass for the departed members of the chapter on Tuesday, 21st November at St Andrew's Church, Headington. Fr David officiated assisted by servers from St Andrews and members of the chapter. During the prayers the names of the departed members and supporters of the chapter were read out. Afterwards, tea, coffee and biscuits were provided in the parish room. Our thanks to Fr Micahel Brewin and the people of St Andrews for welcoming us once again.
Present: Bros Ben Heffer, Trevor Langrish, Stan Goodwin, Julian Culcutt, Robert Warren, Bruce Armour, Mrs Culcutt, Mrs Bruce Armour, Fr David and six supporters.
Apologies: Bro Sid Cox, Fr Jason St John Nicolle.
Present: Bros Ben Heffer, Trevor Langrish, Stan Goodwin, Julian Culcutt, Robert Warren, Bruce Armour, Mrs Culcutt, Mrs Bruce Armour, Fr David and six supporters.
Apologies: Bro Sid Cox, Fr Jason St John Nicolle.
Fr Christopher Walker
We are sorry to have to report that our friend and one-time priest associate, Fr Christopher Walker, has been diagnosed with cancer. Please keep him and his family in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. Fr Christopher was for a number of years a loyal supporter of our chapter while he was vicar of St Mary's, Headington and also our chapter organist prior to his move to South Moreton. He now ministers at St Michael's Abingdon.
Memorials
The Blessed Sacrament
Ant. O sacred banquet* in which Christ is received, the memory of his passion renewed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given unto us. (Alleluia).
V/. Thou gavest them bread from heaven.
R/. Containing in itself all sweetness.
Let us pray.
O God, who under a wonderful sacrament hast left us a memorial of thy passion; grant us, we beseech thee, so to venerate the sacred mysteries of they body and blood, that we may ever feel within us the fruit of thy redemption; who livest and reignest with the Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Our Blessed Lady
Ant. All generations* shall call me blessed, for he that is mighty hath magnified me. (Alleluia).
V/. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God.
R/. That we may be worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us pray.
We beseech thee, O Lord, most mercifully to pour the abundance of the grace into our hearts as we commemorate the holy Virgin Mary, Mother of God: and sanctify our bodies in chastity and our souls in humilty and love; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end . Amen.
The Faithful Departed
Ant. All that the Father* hath given me shall come to me; and him that cometh unto me, I will in no wise cast out.
V/. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord.
R/. And let light perpetual shine upon them.
Let us pray.
O Lord, the maker and redeemer of all believers; grant to the faithful departed all the unsearchable benefits of the Son's passion, that in the day of his appearing they may be manifested as thy children; through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Chapter Quiet Day
Our thanks to Fr Jason St John Nicolle for organising and running the Chapter Quiet Day, held on Saturday, 28th October at St Mary's Church, Kidlington.
Geoffrey Gilbert Pinnock
The chapter records with sadness the passing of Fr Geoffrey Pinnock, aged 90, who died quietly at home after a short illness in the early hours of Sunday September 24th. Fr Geoffrey had been a priest associate of St Birinus Chapter since March 1982. Since his retirement from parish ministry he and his wife, Jill, worshipped at the church of St John the Evangelist, Iffley Road - the college church of St Stephen's House Theological College - where his funeral Mass will be celebrated on Thursday October 5th at 1pm. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jill, Fr Giles & Clare at this sad time. May Geoffrey and all the faithful departed rest in peace and rise in glory.
4th September - St Barnabas, Oxford
The chapter celebrated its feast of title with Guild Office & Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at St Barnabas’ Church, Oxford. Our Chaplain, Revd Jason St John Nicolle, officiated and Revd Dennis Mason gave the address, taking as his theme Birinus’ mission to the West Saxons. We were pleased to hear that Fr Dennis and Mrs Mason are experiencing better health of late. Our thanks to Prof David Murray who played the organ for us.
Present: Fr Jason, Fr Dennis, Bros Trevor Langrish, Sid Cox, Bruce Armour, Ben Heffer, Frank Howlett, Don Young and Cllr Clive Tilling; Reg, Verona Harris, Mrs Armour and Naomi Heffer.
Apologies: Sr Susan Greenaway, Bro Stan Goodwin.
Present: Fr Jason, Fr Dennis, Bros Trevor Langrish, Sid Cox, Bruce Armour, Ben Heffer, Frank Howlett, Don Young and Cllr Clive Tilling; Reg, Verona Harris, Mrs Armour and Naomi Heffer.
Apologies: Sr Susan Greenaway, Bro Stan Goodwin.
Young Servers
13 young people between the ages of nine and 15 camped out in St Mary's Refectory, Kidlington on Saturday night. Run by the chapter, the aim of the event was to encourage young altar servers in their ministry. The evening started with a simplified form of Vespers with four robed servers. The children choose some of their favourite worship songs and wrote the prayers. After supper, the young people were challenged to explore the church and name the various items used in divine worship. Other activities followed including a very successful drama games session run by Sebastian Heffer. Prior to lights out, we watched a DVD of The Lion, the With and the Wardrobe.
Thanks are due to Mrs Lesley Heffer, Mr Trevor Langrish, Revd Jason StJohn Nicolle and Sebastion Heffer for helping to run this event.
Thanks are due to Mrs Lesley Heffer, Mr Trevor Langrish, Revd Jason StJohn Nicolle and Sebastion Heffer for helping to run this event.
Bro Trevor Langrish
Congratulations to our treasurer, Bro Trevor Langrish, who has received an invitation to attend the Queen’s Garden Party in recognition of his work for the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. The Garden Party to be held at Buckingham Palace on 13th July in the presence of HM The Queen, HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and their Royal Highnesses the Earl and Countess of Wessex is to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. Trevor has given almost 27 years’ service to the scheme as a volunteer. All good wishes to him for an enjoyable day.
12th July - St Margaret's, Binsey
The chapter met for Guild Office in the small and historic parish church of St Margaret of Antioch, Binsey. Close to the famous Treacle Well (healing well), this was a beautiful setting for our office on a summer's evening. The church has no electricity and so the office was sung by candle light. Revd Tony Knox officiated and preached. Afterwards we enjoyed a drink at the Perch public house close to the river Isis.Present: Fr Tony Knox, Bros Trevor Langrish, Ben Heffer, Jim Curtis, Bruce Armour, Sr Susan Greenaway, Mrs Armour and Mrs Marie Cosby.
Apologies: Bro Sid Cox, Fr Jason Nicolle, Fr Russell Dewhurst.
GSS Statement on Women Priests
In the latest issue of The Server there is a statement of the official position of the GSS on women priests.
Some of the members of this chapter who accept the ministry of women in the church feel uncomfortable about remaining part of the GSS given the current position. This is unfortunate as we are a small chapter and we would not want nor can we afford to lose active members from our fellowship.
What is your view? It would be helpful to understand the feelings of the wider membership on this issue. Please pray about this and post your comments here.
Some of the members of this chapter who accept the ministry of women in the church feel uncomfortable about remaining part of the GSS given the current position. This is unfortunate as we are a small chapter and we would not want nor can we afford to lose active members from our fellowship.
What is your view? It would be helpful to understand the feelings of the wider membership on this issue. Please pray about this and post your comments here.
Bro John Stack
It is with much sadness that we record the death of John Stack. John was our longest serving chapter member, indeed with Fr Janes of St Barnabas he helped restart the chapter after the war. He was chapter organist for many years and after retiring that position continued to attend meetings regularly. He was a faithful servant of the sanctuary. Our deepest sympathy and prayers for his family at this time. + May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
Regional & National Events
Saturday, 19th August 2006
Assumption Festival
Bristol Cathedral
12:30pm Procession & Eucharist
3:30pm Benediction
Saturday 9th September 2006
Midland Servers Festival
Worksop Priory
12 noon Eucharist
3pm Guild Office, Procession & Benediction
Saturday, 14th October 2006
National Autumn Festival
St Nicholas' Cathedral, Newcastle
12 noon Sung Eucharist
3:30pm Solemn Guild Office, Procession & Benediction
Saturday, 21st October 2006
Chapter of St Frideswide 85th Anniversary
St Mary's Parish Church, Slough
3pm Guild Office, Procession & Benediction
Preacher: Bishop of Buckingham
Saturday, 6th January 2007
Epiphany Festival
Holy Trinity Church, Hoxton N1
12 noon Solemn Mass of the Epiphany
3:30pm Solemn Guild Office, Procession to the Crib & Benediction
Assumption Festival
Bristol Cathedral
12:30pm Procession & Eucharist
3:30pm Benediction
Saturday 9th September 2006
Midland Servers Festival
Worksop Priory
12 noon Eucharist
3pm Guild Office, Procession & Benediction
Saturday, 14th October 2006
National Autumn Festival
St Nicholas' Cathedral, Newcastle
12 noon Sung Eucharist
3:30pm Solemn Guild Office, Procession & Benediction
Saturday, 21st October 2006
Chapter of St Frideswide 85th Anniversary
St Mary's Parish Church, Slough
3pm Guild Office, Procession & Benediction
Preacher: Bishop of Buckingham
Saturday, 6th January 2007
Epiphany Festival
Holy Trinity Church, Hoxton N1
12 noon Solemn Mass of the Epiphany
3:30pm Solemn Guild Office, Procession to the Crib & Benediction
Petertide Ordinations
Our congratulations and good wishes go to Daniel Smith and Matthew Bemand, two of our members who are ordinands at St Stephen's House, as they prepare for their ordinations this Petertide. Daniel will serve in the parish of St Peter, Bexhill-on-Sea and Matthew in the parish of St Thomas of Canterbury, Brentwood.
Please remember Daniel and Matthew in your prayers as they complete their studies and prepare for the sacred ministry.
Please remember Daniel and Matthew in your prayers as they complete their studies and prepare for the sacred ministry.
Sr Jenny Dowdeswell
Congratulations to Jenny Dowdeswell who was admitted to the GSS at our chapter meeting in May. Jenny is a server at St John the Baptist's Church, Kidlington and we are pleased to welcome her to the chapter.
16th May - St Mary Magdalene, Oxford
The chapter met on Tuesday, 16th May in St Mary Magdalene's Church, Oxford for Guild Office & Benediction in honour of Our Lady. Our chaplain, Revd Jason St John Nicolle officiated for the Office and Revd Peter Groves, the Vicar of St Mary Magdalene, preached and gave Benediction. Before the service, Sr Jenny Dowdeswell was admitted as a probationer of the GSS.
Present: Frs Jason Nicolle and Peter Groves; Bros Ken Belcher, Frank Howlett, John Stack, Dennis Dean, Richard Gledhill, Ben Heffer, Sid Cox, Robert Warren; Srs Angela Dean, Jenny Dowdeswell, Barbara Belcher, Verona Harris; Prof. David Murray and seven friends and supporters.
Apologies: Sr Susan Greenaway, Bros Bruce Armour and Trevor Langrish.
Present: Frs Jason Nicolle and Peter Groves; Bros Ken Belcher, Frank Howlett, John Stack, Dennis Dean, Richard Gledhill, Ben Heffer, Sid Cox, Robert Warren; Srs Angela Dean, Jenny Dowdeswell, Barbara Belcher, Verona Harris; Prof. David Murray and seven friends and supporters.
Apologies: Sr Susan Greenaway, Bros Bruce Armour and Trevor Langrish.
Programme 2006/7
Tuesday, 16th May at 7:30pm
St Mary Magdalen, Oxford
Guild Office, Sermon & Benediction
Preacher: Fr Peter Groves
Wednesday, 12th July at 7:30pm
St Margaret of Antioch, Binsey
Guild Office
Please join us for a drink at the Perch after church.
Monday, 4th September at 7:30pm
St Barnanbas, Oxford
Patronal Guild Office, Sermon & Benediction
Preacher: Fr Dennis Mason
Tuesday, 21st November at 7:30pm
St Andrew, Headington
Requiem Mass
Celebrant: Fr Michael Brewin
Tuesday, 23rd January at 7:30pm
SS Mary & John, Cowley Rd, Oxford
Guild Office, Sermon & Benediction
Preacher: Fr Adam Romanis
Wednesday, 14th March at 7:30pm
St Mary the Virgin, Kidlington
Stations of the Cross followed by Chapter AGM
Officiant: Fr Jason St John Nicolle
St Mary Magdalen, Oxford
Guild Office, Sermon & Benediction
Preacher: Fr Peter Groves
Wednesday, 12th July at 7:30pm
St Margaret of Antioch, Binsey
Guild Office
Please join us for a drink at the Perch after church.
Monday, 4th September at 7:30pm
St Barnanbas, Oxford
Patronal Guild Office, Sermon & Benediction
Preacher: Fr Dennis Mason
Tuesday, 21st November at 7:30pm
St Andrew, Headington
Requiem Mass
Celebrant: Fr Michael Brewin
Tuesday, 23rd January at 7:30pm
SS Mary & John, Cowley Rd, Oxford
Guild Office, Sermon & Benediction
Preacher: Fr Adam Romanis
Wednesday, 14th March at 7:30pm
St Mary the Virgin, Kidlington
Stations of the Cross followed by Chapter AGM
Officiant: Fr Jason St John Nicolle
Minutes of the AGM 2006
Minutes of AGM of GSS – Chapter of St Birinus held on 15th March 2005 at the Church of St Mary the Virgin, Kidlington.
Present: Bros. Ken Belcher, Denis Dean, Trevor Langrish & Ben Heffer (Chair), Srs. Angela Dean & Barbara Belcher, Cllr Clive Tilling, Revd Jason St John Nicolle and supporters Jenny Dowdeswell, Nick & Marion Kubat, Graham, Sebastian and Naomi Heffer.
1. Opening Prayer – the meeting followed a public recitation of the Stations of the Cross and Litany.
2. Apologies for Absence – apologies were received from Srs Susan Greenaway and Jenny Pittaway; Bros. Daniel Smith, Sid Cox, Stan Goodwin, Robert Warren, Jack Webster and Fr Dennis Mason.
It was reported that Edna Mason was poorly again and Fr Dennis couldn't leave her to join the meeting. Bro Stan Goodwin was suffering with a fracture to the neck. The meeting was asked to bear both the Masons and Bro Stan in their prayers.
3. Minutes of the AGM 2005 – the minutes of the meeting held on 16th March 2005 were read and approved.
4. Matters Arising – there were no matters arising.
5. Secretary’s Report – Bro Ben Heffer presented the Secretary’s Report. Bro Ken Belcher, on behalf of the meeting, proposed a vote of thanks to Bro Ben for his work as secretary.
6. Treasurer’s Report – Bro Trevor presented the treasurer’s report and audited accounts, which were approved and accepted. The chair proposed a vote of thanks to Bro Trevor for his work as treasurer.
7. Election of Chapter Officers – There being no other nominations, Bros Ben Heffer and Trevor Langrish were re-elected as Secretary and Treasurer respectively.
8. Chapter Programme 2006 – it was agreed that the chapter should meet in May, July, September, November, January & March. Bro Ben reported that a meeting at St Margaret's Binsey had been arranged for July and a meeting at St Barnabas for Monday, 4th September. The remaining meetings were in the process of being arranged.
9. Any Other Business – Cllr Clive Tilling encouraged everyone to attend the GSS Easter Festival & AGM on 22nd April at St Augustine's Queens Gate. Bro Ben advised that next year, 2007, was the Chapter's 90th Anniversary.
10. Closing Prayer – the meeting was closed with prayer led by Fr Jason Nicolle.
Present: Bros. Ken Belcher, Denis Dean, Trevor Langrish & Ben Heffer (Chair), Srs. Angela Dean & Barbara Belcher, Cllr Clive Tilling, Revd Jason St John Nicolle and supporters Jenny Dowdeswell, Nick & Marion Kubat, Graham, Sebastian and Naomi Heffer.
1. Opening Prayer – the meeting followed a public recitation of the Stations of the Cross and Litany.
2. Apologies for Absence – apologies were received from Srs Susan Greenaway and Jenny Pittaway; Bros. Daniel Smith, Sid Cox, Stan Goodwin, Robert Warren, Jack Webster and Fr Dennis Mason.
It was reported that Edna Mason was poorly again and Fr Dennis couldn't leave her to join the meeting. Bro Stan Goodwin was suffering with a fracture to the neck. The meeting was asked to bear both the Masons and Bro Stan in their prayers.
3. Minutes of the AGM 2005 – the minutes of the meeting held on 16th March 2005 were read and approved.
4. Matters Arising – there were no matters arising.
5. Secretary’s Report – Bro Ben Heffer presented the Secretary’s Report. Bro Ken Belcher, on behalf of the meeting, proposed a vote of thanks to Bro Ben for his work as secretary.
6. Treasurer’s Report – Bro Trevor presented the treasurer’s report and audited accounts, which were approved and accepted. The chair proposed a vote of thanks to Bro Trevor for his work as treasurer.
7. Election of Chapter Officers – There being no other nominations, Bros Ben Heffer and Trevor Langrish were re-elected as Secretary and Treasurer respectively.
8. Chapter Programme 2006 – it was agreed that the chapter should meet in May, July, September, November, January & March. Bro Ben reported that a meeting at St Margaret's Binsey had been arranged for July and a meeting at St Barnabas for Monday, 4th September. The remaining meetings were in the process of being arranged.
9. Any Other Business – Cllr Clive Tilling encouraged everyone to attend the GSS Easter Festival & AGM on 22nd April at St Augustine's Queens Gate. Bro Ben advised that next year, 2007, was the Chapter's 90th Anniversary.
10. Closing Prayer – the meeting was closed with prayer led by Fr Jason Nicolle.
Treasurer's Report 2005/6
2005 was again a quiet year with regard to the chapter's finances, which are still fairly healthy - income was £137.35 (£121.75 down on that for 2004), expenditure was £135.66 (£75.42 down on that for 2004). These decreases are mostly caused by membership and magazine subscriptions being no longer collected locally by the chapter but centrally by the GSS. There was a one-off item that appears in both the Receipts and Expenditure columns; this was the retirement gift for Fr Dennis Mason. The end of year balance on the cheque account was £469.24 (compared with £545.72 at the end of 2004). The deposit account remains untouched and is accumulating interest - the balance on it is currently £1,127.56. The leads to our total assets for the end of 2005 being £1,596.80. I still enjoy being treasurer and am willing to continue. Membership subscriptions and magazine subscriptions are being collected centrally by direct debit and should no longer be paid to me, however, I would gratefully receive any chapter donations. Finally, I would like to thank Bro Ben Heffer for all his hard work as chapter secretary. I would also like to thank Fr Dennis Mason for auditing the accounts for 2005, thereby checking that I am doing business correctly.
Receipts
Chapter donations 10.00
Cheque late in presentation 2.60
Donations for retirement gift 80.00
Lloyds TSB interest 8.95
Sub Total A 101.55
Collections:
Mar - St Mary Mag, Oxford 7.30
May - St Mary, Hampton Poyle 9.00
Jul - Bartlemas Chapel 12.50
Sep - St John the Bap, Kidlington 7.00
Nov - St Barnabas, Oxford 00.00
Sub Total B 35.80
Total Income (A + B) 137.35
Balance from 31 December 2004 1,664.33
Total 1,801.68
Expenditure
Secretary's expenses:
Refreshments AGM 5.67
Postage 43.65
Stationery 5.34
Retirement gift 81.00
Total expenditure 135.66
2004 cheques late in presentation 123.88
Assets:
TSB cheque account 469.24
Deposit account 1,127.56
Total Assets 1,596.80
Less cheques/cash to be presented (54.66)
Total 1,801.68
Receipts
Chapter donations 10.00
Cheque late in presentation 2.60
Donations for retirement gift 80.00
Lloyds TSB interest 8.95
Sub Total A 101.55
Collections:
Mar - St Mary Mag, Oxford 7.30
May - St Mary, Hampton Poyle 9.00
Jul - Bartlemas Chapel 12.50
Sep - St John the Bap, Kidlington 7.00
Nov - St Barnabas, Oxford 00.00
Sub Total B 35.80
Total Income (A + B) 137.35
Balance from 31 December 2004 1,664.33
Total 1,801.68
Expenditure
Secretary's expenses:
Refreshments AGM 5.67
Postage 43.65
Stationery 5.34
Retirement gift 81.00
Total expenditure 135.66
2004 cheques late in presentation 123.88
Assets:
TSB cheque account 469.24
Deposit account 1,127.56
Total Assets 1,596.80
Less cheques/cash to be presented (54.66)
Total 1,801.68
Secretary's Report 2005/6
The chapter roll has remained constant since last year at 39, comprising 23 members, 3 priest associates, 13 life members.
In November, Fr Dennis officially stood down as our chaplain after many years of service. We were pleased to make a presentation to him and to thank him officially for all that he has done for the chapter over the years. We were pleased to welcome our new chaplain Fr Jason and we look forward to working with him in the future. During the year we have noted with sadness the passing of Bro Tony Denner, a past member of the chapter.
Our meetings have been particualrly poorly attended this year and we really need to encourage better attendance from amongst the membership and to encourage new members and supporters. The chapter committee is currently considering how this may be achieved. During the course of this year I have corresponded regularly with those on our roll by letter and by email and this has helped those who can for reason of age or infirmity no longer attend meetings to keep in touch. I have also maintained a weblog with all the chapter news there for those that have internet access.
Since our last AGM, the Chapter has met 5 times.
In May we met at St Mary’s, Hampton Poyle for Guild Office and Benediction for Corpus Christi. Fr Jason and Fr Jim Turner led our worship.
In July we met at Bartlemas Chapel for Guild Office & Benediction. Fr Jason officiated and Fr Adam Romanis gave the address. We were pleased to have refreshments afterwards at the Vicarage. Our thanks to Fr Adam for his hospitailty.
In September we celebrated our Patronal Festival at St John’s Church, Kidlington with Guild Office & Benediction. Fr Jason officiated and preached.
In November we remembered the departed members of the chapter with a mass at St Barnabas’ Church celebrated by our outgoing chaplain Fr Dennis Mason. Afterwards we made a presentation of a Lladro figurine of the Holy Family as a thankyou token to Fr Dennis on his retirement.
In January, we met at St Mary Magdalen’s Church when Fr Peter Groves officiated and preached at Guild Office & Benediction for the feast of the Conversion of St Paul.
I am grateful to all the parish clergy who have opened their doors to us this last year and have led us in divine worship. My thanks especially to Fr Jason, our Chaplain, Professor David Murray who has played the organ for us at a number of our meetings and to Bro Trevor Langrish for his work as treasurer.
In November, Fr Dennis officially stood down as our chaplain after many years of service. We were pleased to make a presentation to him and to thank him officially for all that he has done for the chapter over the years. We were pleased to welcome our new chaplain Fr Jason and we look forward to working with him in the future. During the year we have noted with sadness the passing of Bro Tony Denner, a past member of the chapter.
Our meetings have been particualrly poorly attended this year and we really need to encourage better attendance from amongst the membership and to encourage new members and supporters. The chapter committee is currently considering how this may be achieved. During the course of this year I have corresponded regularly with those on our roll by letter and by email and this has helped those who can for reason of age or infirmity no longer attend meetings to keep in touch. I have also maintained a weblog with all the chapter news there for those that have internet access.
Since our last AGM, the Chapter has met 5 times.
In May we met at St Mary’s, Hampton Poyle for Guild Office and Benediction for Corpus Christi. Fr Jason and Fr Jim Turner led our worship.
In July we met at Bartlemas Chapel for Guild Office & Benediction. Fr Jason officiated and Fr Adam Romanis gave the address. We were pleased to have refreshments afterwards at the Vicarage. Our thanks to Fr Adam for his hospitailty.
In September we celebrated our Patronal Festival at St John’s Church, Kidlington with Guild Office & Benediction. Fr Jason officiated and preached.
In November we remembered the departed members of the chapter with a mass at St Barnabas’ Church celebrated by our outgoing chaplain Fr Dennis Mason. Afterwards we made a presentation of a Lladro figurine of the Holy Family as a thankyou token to Fr Dennis on his retirement.
In January, we met at St Mary Magdalen’s Church when Fr Peter Groves officiated and preached at Guild Office & Benediction for the feast of the Conversion of St Paul.
I am grateful to all the parish clergy who have opened their doors to us this last year and have led us in divine worship. My thanks especially to Fr Jason, our Chaplain, Professor David Murray who has played the organ for us at a number of our meetings and to Bro Trevor Langrish for his work as treasurer.
15th March - St Mary the Virgin, Kidlington
The chapter met on Wenesday, 15th March in St Mary's Church, Kidlington for Stations of the Cross & Litany. Revd Jason Nicolle led our worship using an order for Scriptural Stations of the Cross first celebrated by Pope John Paul II in 1992. Before the service, Fr Jason blessed the chapter's recently acquired Lent cope. Afterwards, the chapter Annual General Meeting was held in the refectory. Ben Heffer and Trevor Langrish were re-elected to serve as secretary and treasurer for the forthcoming year.
Present: Revd Jason StJohn Nicolle; Bros Ken Belcher, Dennis Dean, Trevor Langrish and Ben Heffer; Cllr Clive Tilling; Srs Angela Dean and Barbara Belcher and nine supporters.
Apologies: Bros Sid Cox, Robert Warren, Daniel Smith, Jack Webster, Stan Goodwin, Sr Jenny Pittaway, and Revd Dennis Mason.
Present: Revd Jason StJohn Nicolle; Bros Ken Belcher, Dennis Dean, Trevor Langrish and Ben Heffer; Cllr Clive Tilling; Srs Angela Dean and Barbara Belcher and nine supporters.
Apologies: Bros Sid Cox, Robert Warren, Daniel Smith, Jack Webster, Stan Goodwin, Sr Jenny Pittaway, and Revd Dennis Mason.
The Guild Collect
Grant, we beseech thee, almighty God,
to us thy servants, the spirit of holy fear:
that we, following the example of thy holy child Samuel,
may faithfully minister before thee in thy sanctuary;
through Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord,
who liveth and reigneth with thee
in the unity of the Holy Ghost,
ever one God, world without end. Amen.
to us thy servants, the spirit of holy fear:
that we, following the example of thy holy child Samuel,
may faithfully minister before thee in thy sanctuary;
through Jesus Christ thy Son our Lord,
who liveth and reigneth with thee
in the unity of the Holy Ghost,
ever one God, world without end. Amen.
25th January - St Mary Magdalen, Oxford
We met in the beautiful church of St Mary Magdalen, Oxford on the feast of the Conversion of St Paul for Guild Office and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. The parish priest, Revd Dr Peter Groves, officiated and preached. Unfortunately, a number of our regular members were indisposed and we were not able to field a full serving team, however, we were joined by some visitors from Cuddeston and some members of the local congregation, so that together we were still able to sing the office. Fr Peter informed us that Mary Mags is to reintroduce the office of Benediction and that on Wednesday evenings during Lent there is to be Stations of the Cross followed by Benediction starting on 8th March. This is an excellent way to mark the penitential season and all are welcome to attend. Our thanks to Fr Peter for hosting our meeting and to Prof. David Murray for playing the organ.
Present: Bros Trevor Langrish, Ken Belcher, John Stack, Robert Warren, Ben Heffer and eight supporters.
Apologies: Bros Denis Dean, Stan Goodwin, Sid Cox, Bruce Armour, Daniel Smith, Julian Calcut; Sr Angela Dean, Susan Armour, Gail Navroki, Susan Greenaway, Barbara Belcher; Frs Dennis Mason, Jason St John Nicolle.
Present: Bros Trevor Langrish, Ken Belcher, John Stack, Robert Warren, Ben Heffer and eight supporters.
Apologies: Bros Denis Dean, Stan Goodwin, Sid Cox, Bruce Armour, Daniel Smith, Julian Calcut; Sr Angela Dean, Susan Armour, Gail Navroki, Susan Greenaway, Barbara Belcher; Frs Dennis Mason, Jason St John Nicolle.
Revd Michael St John Nicolle
Please remember in your prayers our chaplain Revd Jason St John Nicolle and his family as they mourn the death of Jason’s father, Michael, who died at the weekend. Michael, also a priest, lived with his wife on Jersey. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
Bro Tony Denner
We record with sadness the death on Tuesday, 17th January of Tony Denner. Until frailty and ill health prevented him, he was a faithful server at the Church of St John the Baptist, Kidlington and a member of the GSS, regularly attending chapter meetings. Please remember his widow Pam and his family in your prayers. May Tony rest in peace and rise in glory.
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