The chapter roll remains unchanged at 24 comprising 15 members, seven life members and two associate members. In December I learned of the death of Bro Sid Cox. He died in Sobell House, Oxford on 22nd March 2012 (shortly after the AGM last year). Bro. Sid was a life member of the GSS and originally attended the Abingdon Chapter before its closure. Living in Didcot, he had the rather awkward journey by train, bus and by foot to get to Guild Offices in Kidlington, but that did not deter him and I know he really enjoyed coming to chapter meetings.
The chapter met for worship four times in 2012. On 14th March last year we met here in St Mary’s Church when we observed the season of Lent with a celebration of the Guild Office and a recitation of the Litany. We are grateful to Revd Canon Anthony Ellis for officiating and preaching at that service. 11 members and supporters were present. Afterwards we convened the chapter AGM.
In May, the chapter met to sing the Guild Office in the beautiful church of St Mary, Hampton Poyle on the Eve of the Feast of the Visitation. Revd William Whyte was the officiant and preacher. Afterwards we enjoyed some refreshments. 15 people were present.
In September, the chapter met to celebrate its feast of title in the church of St Mary the Virgin, Kidlington with sung Guild Office, procession and sermon. Revd Canon Anthony Ellis officiated and preached taking as his theme the mission of St Birinus of Dorchester. Afterwards the chapter made a presentation to Canon Ellis to mark his forthcoming retirement and as a thank you for his help and support for the chapter during his time in Kidlington. 12 people were present.
In November, we met to offer prayer for the departed members and supporters of our chapter in St John’s Church, Kidlington. Revd William Whyte officiated. After singing the Guild Office, Fr William gave an address and led us in prayer including a recitation of the chapter chantry book. 11 members and supporters were present.
The support for chapter meetings has failed to improve this year with attendances barely above ten members and supporters. We are grateful for the presence of some loyal supporters. I am advised by the Secretary-General that this is a common problem among a number of chapters although he also reports that some continue to flourish. Last year I reported that Cllr Clive Tilling has resigned as group councillor and left the GSS. As far as I am aware we have not yet found a replacement and the post remains vacant. This paints a picture of general decline.
I reported last year that I would most likely be standing down this time. I have served as chapter secretary since 2004 and prior to that from 1993 until 2000; there was a break of four years when Bro Ken Belcher took on the role. I have given as much as I can to the chapter but with declining roles and uncertainty about how much support we might get from the new incumbent, I feel we have really come to the end of the road. I therefore won’t be standing again and Bro Treasurer informs me that that is also his decision too. Trevor has served as treasurer since 1998.
As ever, I am grateful to the clergy of the Kidlington Team Ministry for leading our worship and preaching during the year; Canon Ellis, now retired, and Fr William. Their support has been very much appreciated. Thank you to all who support our services especially Prof David Murray, who plays the organ so well for us. Thank you also to Bro Trevor Langrish our MC and for his invaluable work as our chapter treasurer.
Bro Ben Heffer
Chapter Secretary
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