OXFORD DIOCESE PILGRIM PROJECT
St Mary the Virgin, Drayton Beauchamp
Whether you come from the road or the canal footpath, spend some time taking in the surroundings. The church in the field with red kites overhead, the sheep grazing, the ancient chestnut trees on the drive. Become aware of the tranquility of this place. Remember the words of the psalmist ‘Be still and know that I am God.’ Repeat these words as, for a short while, you leave behind your busy life and discover or rekindle your living faith here at St Mary’s. Children and adults have been baptized in
As you step up into the Chancel, note how
this Norman font for 900 years. Baptism is the
the floor tiles become more elaborate. This
outward sign marking the beginning of our
reflects the tradition that only the most skilled
Christian journey of faith. As you remember the
craftsmanship was worthy of being near the
hope of new life in Christ, here you might want to
Altar. Give thanks to God for artists, musicians
pause and pray for new beginnings, giving over
and poets who through their works capture a
to God issues you’ve struggled with.
glimpse of the glory of God.
Richard Hooker is Drayton Beauchamp’s most
The altar is the focal point of the church; it is
famous Rector, whose work after the Reformation
where Christians meet the risen Christ in bread
was central in developing Anglican faith. Hooker
and wine, and where the community unites
wanted a church where the scriptures were read
around the Lord’s table. Reflect on the words of
with integrity, applying reason and tradition.
the psalmist, ‘O taste and see how gracious the
Take some time to give thanks for people who in
Lord is. Blessed are they who trust in him.’
previous centuries and now devote their lives to understanding the mystery of God.
The Apostles’ Window shows 10 of the 12 Apostles. These first Apostles were given the task of passing on the teachings of Jesus to
others. The Church continues their work, as we communicate our faith and make it come alive to each successive generation. Take a few minutes to recall with thanksgiving all who have helped you in your faith. Memorials You can’t fail to notice the huge 18th century memorial to Viscount and Viscountess Newhaven. This is the same family as the brass memorials in the floors. Death marks the end of our earthly journey, but the beginning of a new life with Christ in heaven. Beside this monument is a small stained glass window, showing the
Windows Illuminated by the light of the Creation
Risen Christ meeting Mary Magdalene on Easter
outside, the windows in the nave tell the story
morning. Pause here to pray for loved ones
of the life of Christ. As you prepare to leave,
who have died and to give thanks to God that
take a moment to reflect that Christ is always
even in the midst of death is the hope of the
with us, not just on pilgrimage or in church, but
resurrection.
throughout the whole of our lives.
OXFORD DIOCESE PILGRIM PROJECT
You might also like to visit other nearby churches in the Pilgrim Project:
Oxford Diocese Pilgrim Project: St Mary the Virgin, Drayton Beauchamp HP22 5LU
St Peter and St Paul, Olney ‘Amazing Grace’
Website: www.s-marys.org.uk
Virgin Mary, North Marston Shrine of John Schorne St Giles, Stoke Poges Gray’s ‘Elegy’
PILGRIMAGE PRAYER Pilgrim God, You are our origin and our destination. Travel with us, we pray, in every pilgrimage of faith, and every journey of the heart. Give us the courage to set off, the nourishment we need to travel well, and the welcome we long for at our journey’s end. So may we grow in grace and love for you and in the service of others. through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen
John Pritchard, Bishop of Oxford
Illustrations by Brian Hall © Diocese of Oxford