Our new Vicar, Reverend Hilary Campbell, was formally licensed in a packed Cropredy Church on 1st October at a Service* of Collation, Induction and Installation. The Bishop of Dorchester, Right Reverend Colin Fletcher, officiated assisted by the Area Dean of Deddington Deanery, Revd Jeff West. The congregation was headed by the Lord-Lieutenant of Oxfordshire, Tim Stevenson, as HM The Queen’s representative along with our District Councillor, Ken Atack. The Revd Lynda Alcock supported the Bishop as his Chaplain. Clergy from many churches in the Deanery area were present as well as representatives of the Catholic and Methodist Churches.

During the service, which was both ceremonial yet intimate, the Churchwardens of each of the five parishes in the Benefice presented Hilary with symbols of the ministry including water for baptism, oil of healing, a Bible, a Prayer Book and bread & wine. Later the Churchwardens handed Hilary the keys of the five churches and she then went on to ring the Sanctus bell. The service concluded with the joyous hymn, The Lord of the Dance, with the accompaniment provided by a small band.

With the formalities over the congregation of well over 150 moved to Cropredy Village Hall for refreshments where Hilary was welcomed with a hearty three cheers.

Many more from Wardington will have the opportunity to welcome and meet Hilary at the Harvest Supper on 5th October and at the Harvest Festival Service on 6th October at 10.00am.

* For an explanation of the title of the Service see the following link: Service Order Cover