By late July, the Church has journeyed deep into the Trinity season. The great festivals of Easter and Pentecost have passed, and the liturgical colour has settled into the restful green of Ordinary Time. While this period may appear quiet to a casual observer, the liturgy for the Seventh Sunday after Trinity offers congregations a profound reflection on divine providence.The traditional Gospel narrative for this Sunday, drawn from the eighth chapter of St Mark, recounts the Feeding of the Four Thousand. This passage contains a striking scriptural harmony: on this seventh Sunday, the narrative details how Jesus took seven loaves of bread, and how the disciples subsequently gathered seven baskets of broken fragments. Within Christian tradition, the number seven denotes completeness, perfection, and the total sufficiency of God.A subtle, practical humour resides within this familiar scene. Despite having witnessed prior miracles, the disciples look upon the vast crowd and ask a characteristically short-sighted question: “From whence can a man satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness?”Human nature has altered very little. Modern congregations frequently survey their own modest resources, pressing parochial demands, and personal anxieties, wondering how such limited means can suffice.The Seventh Sunday after Trinity gently corrects this anxiety. Christ accepts the meagre offering, gives thanks, and breaks it. Not only is the crowd sustained, but the remnants exceed the original components. This serves as a vital reminder that when ordinary people offer their small, daily efforts to God, those gifts are multiplied beyond human expectation.As parishes gather in the warmth of summer, the liturgy encourages steadfastness. The pastoral message may occasionally test the patience of the pews, but the Church is reminded that it worships a God of abundance, who meets His people in the wilderness and ensures none are sent away empty.
Give To Go Green is a match-funding scheme from the Church of England helping you double your locally raised donations for carbon-cutting projects.Through a targeted digital fundraising campaign you will be able to engage your community in building a sustainable future for your church and the world around you.If you are interested in applying to be a Give to Go Green participant, watch one of these webinars to find out more Thursday 9 July, 7-8pm If you decide you want to apply, please email the Environment Team in the first instance.
From Shiplake VillagesRoad resurfacing works for Church Lane, Shiplake (and for Reading Road patching) have now been confirmed by Oxfordshire County Council. Timing will be July 28 to July 31, 2026.July 28 and 29 resurfacing work is only within Church Lane itself 0730-1700. The A4155 Reading Road will be open throughout. July 30 and 31 from 2000 to 0600 there will be overnight closures on the A4155 Reading Road (from Shiplake College to close to the Tarmac site in Sonning) to allow patching work to take place. Diversions will be in place.No cars or vans should park on Church Lane from 24 hours before work starting.
Rehearsal Schedule for St. Margaret's Patronal Play - all at St. M's - costumes will be provided. Please attend all rehearsals, if possible.Saturday 11th July 2pmWednesday 15th July 6pm (for about an hour)Saturday 18th July 2pmSunday 19th July - Performance after the 10a.m Benefice Service with a Cake Sale and refreshments afterwards.
