Like the vast majority of people in Bloxham I don’t attend any services at St Mary’s Church in the village. In fact I’m deeply irreligious and shy away from any organisation of religion.

However, I do understand why some people express their spirituality in a church-going community, especially when the church building is such a glorious one as St Marys. It is the building itself which inspires awe and marvel in me and that is why I am happy to be the treasurer for The Friends of St Marys. The Friends are a bridge to people who don’t necessarily attend church services and provides a way for people who have some link to the village, to support St Mary’s. We exist to preserve, protect, beautify and improve this building which is clearly so much more than its architectural features, distinguished though those are.

Coming home on a winter’s evening and seeing the church spire lit up gives me a lovely warm feeling inside. Likewise, in summer I love the view of the church spire against a blue sky. The St Marys church spire is the highest in Oxfordshire and can. be seen from miles around. My life would be poorer without the view of the spire.
Inside the church, history pokes out from all corners. On a recent tour I learnt much of that history, from the origins of the strange wall painting that can be seen on the north wall, to the notable monuments in the Milcombe Chapel commemorating Sir John Thornycroft (died 1725) and his family.

There are also Rolls of Honour for the casualties of both world wars.
I have attended very many secular events there concerts, Christmas Tree Festivals, childrens’ events, receptions etc. All have brought together members of our community, many of whom are churchgoers but many of whom, like me, appreciate the church as a venue for the wider public to celebrate occasions.
So if, like me, you value the existence of the church as a place of community and belonging; a place where key life events take place; a place of peace and beauty and consolation and a place of history and heritage and memorial then I urge you to support The Friends of St Marys Church.

You can support in many ways:

• • Become a 200 Club ticket holder for £4 per month with monthly prizes of £50 and an annual Christmas draw for a £500 first prize
  • Sign up as a Friend for £10 per year or £15 per couplee
  • Leave a legacy in your will. ‘Despite the fact I hold no religious beliefs, here’s one charity where my gift can be impactful, well used and can also say “thank you” to the community’ (Local Villager)
  • Support our events throughout the year.e

To show your support please contact me, Brendan Hunter, on 07828 091184 or brendanhunter1@outlook.com.