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.