[Editor’s note: The following article, by Oxfordshire Wildlife Rescue’s founder Luke Waclawek, highlights just one example of the great work being done by this Woodway Road-based charity. For more information visit https://www.oxfordshirewildliferescue.com]
Monthly Archives: November 2023
FRIENDS OF ST MICHAEL’S CHURCH
November 5, 2023Someone once said, “I don’t want to go to Church, but I do want there to be a Church not to go to.” This sounds rather contradictory, but it is something many people can relate to.
We want the church to be there for us all, which indeed it is, but modern life means Sunday mornings can be important time for family activities, visiting friends or just having a long lie-in! Special events in the church such as the Carol Concert, Jubilee Evensong or Crib Service at Christmas are always well-attended by villagers, which indicates the value we place on the church. In difficult times, it is a place to pop in for a quiet moment, to sit and think and reflect. The ancient stones seem to understand and bring relief. At those great events in life such as the christening of a new baby, a marriage or a funeral, the church plays such an important part. We want the church to continue to flourish but also want to create another central space in the village for concerts, talks, coffee mornings, prayer meetings, rehearsals and plays.
Many people who may not attend the Services, already work to keep the church in good order by being on the Cleaning rota, the Maintenance Team, or the Flower Arrangers’ Group and we have an active Bell-Ringers group. Their voluntary work is appreciated and vital. Please let us know if you would like to get involved. We would also like to invite everyone to become a member of the Friends of St Michael’s Church so that we can widen this group of supporters and develop the church even further. Since Covid our Sunday services have become more diverse and we now have Communion, All Age Services, Taize Worship and services run by congregation, including talks about faith in a Café Church setting, and outdoor services where we celebrate the countryside and wildlife around us. We also offer a Sunday morning online service which you can join on “gotomeeting” or access by phone.
If you would like to join the Friends of St Michael’s, please complete the form on the leaflet found in this Bulletin or come along to a free Drinks and Nibbles event in the church on Saturday November 18th at 6.00pm-7.15pm to hear a little more about our aspirations to develop the Friends of St Michael’s. Everyone is welcome.
HELP WITH ESSENTIAL LIVING COSTS
Are you on a low income and struggling to pay for food, energy or necessary household items?
We are a local charity able to support people living in Blewbury, the Astons and Upton by providing one off payments to help you, or someone you know in need.
To apply there is a short form to complete which can be picked up from the Post Office, the North Porch of St Michael’s Church or requested by email to unitedcharities@outlook.com. We can help you fill in the form if needed. All applications are assessed on an individual basis but, as our funds are limited, we give priority to those in receipt of benefits such as Universal Credit, Tax Credits and Pension Credit or those who have extenuating circumstances such as ill health or vulnerability. Please don’t be reluctant to ask for help, all applications are dealt with confidentially.
United Charities of the Ancient Parish of Blewbury Registered Charity No: 203538