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.


Sunday, 16 February 2025

Septuagesima


Septuagesima has arrived, the ‘A-word’ is buried until Holy Saturday, the violet vestments and hangings are back in use - and I must say I was most impressed when watching the traditional rite Mass this morning from St Mary’s Shrine in Warrington by the really beautiful violet and gold cope worn by the celebrant for the Asperges. The lead-up to Lent and Easter has begun. 

Last year I wrote an article for the blog drawing together the links to my surprisingly large number of posts about this season of the Church year. These cover both specific liturgical actions and also the case for a time of preparation for our Lenten abstinence. The article with all these links can be seen at Burying the ‘A word’ and Septuagesima


May I wish a spiritually rewarding gesima season to you all.


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