The Songs of Praise planned for 31st July became an Evening Service of the Word using the hymns chosen by parishioners. Elisabeth led worship and played the organ and those who had chosen hymns explained the reason why. Everyone enjoyed refreshments in church after the service.

It was good to welcome our friends from across the benefice on 7th August for Benefice Eucharist using a BCP format. The choir was in attendance with people from each of our six parishes substantially boosting our usual congregation.

We have had two weddings this summer and two marriage blessings of couples married overseas who wished to include their families unable to attend in Australia or USA. All occasions were joyous ones and we wish health and happiness to all couples: Jenny & Kirk, Amanda & Christian, Dale & Alaun and Dorothy and Peter. All involved were especially complementary about Ronald who conducted the ceremonies.

Swallows have nested in the church porch again this summer with a second brood being raised in August. The churchyard has had its usual show of spring and summer wild flowers and grasses but the unusual weather this year has meant that the grasses have smothered some of the flowers.

This year's Oxfordshire Ride and Stride takes place on Saturday, 10th September. It is hoped that some of our many Shutford cyclists will take up the challenge to raise funds for this excellent charity and also help local churches. Swalcliffe church was lucky to receive a grant towards the kitchenette scheme from OHCT. Contact Ken Jeffs for details and sponsorship forms: volunteers to welcome visitors also needed.

Planning permission has been received for the Village Hall rebuild and contracts signed: the hall will be closed from September until next Easter.

Our Harvest Thanksgiving will be held on 25th September but there will not be a Supper this year. Instead there will be a Coffee Evening on Monday, 26th September in church from 7.30pm including sale of produce and a raffle: there will also be wine at nine(ish) to finish off the evening. Donations will be readily accepted, to be shared between Macmillan Cancer Support and the church.