Once I was a clever boy learning the arts of Oxford... is a quotation from the verses written by Bishop Richard Fleming (c.1385-1431) for his tomb in Lincoln Cathedral. Fleming, the founder of Lincoln College in Oxford, is the subject of my research for a D. Phil., and, like me, a son of the West Riding. I have remarked in the past that I have a deeply meaningful on-going relationship with a dead fifteenth century bishop... it was Fleming who, in effect, enabled me to come to Oxford and to learn its arts, and for that I am immensely grateful.


Tuesday 26 May 2015

First Vespers of St Philip at the Oxford Oratory


Yesterday evening the Oxford Oratory celebrated First Vespers for the Feast of St Philip Neri, concluding with Benediction and Veneration of the Relic of our Holy Father. Here are the pictures of the liturgy posted on the Oratory website, with some comments of my own:

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St Philip's Altar decorated with a reliquary bust, candles and flowers

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There was a good congregation

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This was a Five Cope celebration of Vespers - including Br. Gregory a Norbertine currently studying in Oxford


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The votive statue of St Philip and Fra' Julian of the Order of Malta

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Fr Dominic and Br Oliver assist the Provost, Fr Daniel, with his cope

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Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, and, below, Benediction is given by the Provost
  
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The Altar party leave the Sanctuary

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Veneration of the relic of St Philip


Images:Hannah Chegwyn on Oxford Oratory website

Following the ceremonies in church the Oratory Fathers entertained many of its regular congregation and supporters to a generous reception in the parish centre, which was a most enjoyable occasion.


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