Programme During the day, Bishop Stephen will give illustrated presentations on the series of paintings by Stanley Spencer, entitled ‘Christ in the Wilderness’ with his interpretation of the spirituality and theology revealed in the paintings of this remarkable artist. The illustrations and academic input will be augmented by meditative reflections as well as time and space for personal contemplation. and biscuits will be provided but please bring a packed lunch. This day at Corpus Christi College has been enabled by courtesy of Professor Valentine Cunningham, Emeritus Fellow of English Language and Literature at the College Weather permitting, participants may enjoy being at Corpus Christi which contains ancient and beautiful buildings and has an unrivalled position, overlooking gardens and meadows and is only 5 minutes’ walk from the centre of Oxford. Bishop Stephen Cottrell Ordained in 1984 and with a wide range of ministerial experience, he was consecrated Bishop of Reading in 2004 and has been Bishop of Chelmsford since 2010. His many publications include a series of Lent and Holy Week meditations: The Things He Carried (2008), The Things He Said (2009), The Nail, Being part of the Passion (2011) and Christ in the Wilderness (2012). His best-selling I Thirst was the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Lent Book for 2004. With his passion for mission, teaching and commending the Christian faith, he has led many parish missions, was a founding member of the College of Evangelists and was a major contributor in the writing of Pilgrim, an exciting and popular teaching and discipleship resource from the Church of England, encouraging discovery and a deeper understanding of the Christian faith. Bishop Stephen’s interests include writing, reading, cooking and music. He is married to Rebecca and they have three sons. Booking Form Stanley Spencer’s ‘Christ in the Wilderness’ Name: Address: Post code: Daytime phone number: Email: Where did you hear about this event? I enclose a cheque for £...... payable to: ODBF-Admin Funds Please return this form with your cheque to: Revd Georgie Simpson St Michael at the North Gate Cornmarket, Oxford OX1 3EY 07803 031 977 What is OCSG?
The Oxford Centre for Spiritual Growth, (OCSG), was founded by Revd Georgie Simpson and is based at the Church of St Michael at the North Gate. It exists to encourage people to explore the deeper meaning of life and the spiritual aspect of what it is to be human. We aim to offer a variety of approaches and events, involving reflective practice and increasing awareness of self, others and reality. For further details: Tel: 07803 031 977 email: If you are interested in attending, please complete the booking form, either on or online, and return it to us at OCSG. We will gladly keep you informed about other events offered by OCSG if you wish – please let us know. A Reflective Study Day led by Bishop Stephen Cottrell The series of paintings by Stanley Spencer are based on the forty days Jesus spent in the wilderness and give a remarkable insight into Jesus’ own understanding of his vocation and ministry. During the day, Bishop Stephen will present Spencer’s compelling pictures giving us the benefit of his interpretation of the spirituality and theology which they reveal. This day of reflection is offered on the day before Palm Sunday, when we start celebrating Holy Week. It provides an opportunity to contemplate the life and work of our Lord and to consider the love which he poured out to the world, not only in his life, but in his death on the cross. And we can look forward with thanksgiving to being able to celebrate his resurrection on Easter Sunday and beyond. OCSG presents Stanley Spencer’s ‘Christ in the Wilderness’ Reflections led by Stephen Cottrell Bishop of Chelmsford Saturday, 24th March 2018 10 am – 4 pm Corpus Christi College, Oxford £35 including refreshments (Concessions may be available) Contact OCSG 07803 031 977