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.


Wednesday 26 May 2010

St Philip's Day


Today is St Philip's Day, an occasion to give thanks for the life and inspiration of St Philip Neri, and also for his continuing intercession for his extended Oratorian family. It is also a day on which to give thanks for all the Oratories throughout the world and to pray for their members, both clerical and lay external members.

Our Lady and St Philip by Tiepolo

Here in Oxford we began our celebrations with Solemn Vespers and Benediction last night, followed by blessing with a relic of St Philip. This evening there will be a Solemn Mass, with Fr Ian Ker as preacher.

St Philip pray for us all

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