This ‘new’ Oxford Movement

The Roman Catholic Church recently joined many orthodox Christians in lamenting the decline of the Anglican Church, suggesting her refusal to adhere to Tradition likened her to somebody suffering psychiatric illness – whilst her refusal to listen to other major Churches likened her to somebody suffering from grave illness of the body. What a sorry state of affairs! And what a warning to us! I trust (without much hope) that the House of Bishops is going to reflect on these words and seriously consider the implications of their actions.

Along with this warning the Roman Catholics sent a message of encouragment to faithful Anglicans. We were told to form a ‘new Oxford Movement’. A committed body of orthodox Christians intent on reforming the Church of England from within. But what does this mean? Whispers are gathering apace on many a blog- I thought I would add my thoughts to theirs.

Of course we can only discern what a ‘new’ Oxford Movement might be, by reflecting on the ‘old’ one. Doing so leads me to make three bold statements:

1) First and foremost we must be a holy people. Men and women of genuine prayer. We cannot fight for Christ with the weapons of this world but, like all the Saints before us, we MUST put on the armour of Christ. We cannot give almost everything to Jesus we must give ALL. Thus we who are united by orthodoxy must become even closer as a body of priests and people, joined by prayer. Our parishes must worship together. We must pray for one another. If we are to transform the Church and world around us we must remember the words of S. Francis – there is no point walking anywhere to preach- unless our walking IS our preaching.

2) We must accept that our witness will not necessarily be welcomed. The Oxford Fathers were treated badly, they were mocked and persecuted. Somre good and holy priests even suffered the idignity of imprisonment (like Father tooth pictured above) But their vision did not waver. We must learn from them, speaking up for the Gospel – no matter the cost. Standing up for our faith at all times and not allowing others who have chosen the broad and easy path to bully us into submission. Flight, coersion and aggression are attitudes of fear. We must love our enemies, remaining polite, devout and good humoured…but firm!

3) We need to become more outward looking. (let us be honest- this has been a MAJOR failing of Anglo-Catholics in the last half century). We must take our treasure out to the people. Buidling up living faith in the sacraments, scripture and the living tradition of God’s holy Church. Our aim must be nothing less than the re-evanglisation of the Church in this land. But in order to do this we must get onto the front foot and not withdraw (which is always our downfall) Could we organise some wonderful events for Christians of ALL traditions? Inspiring them by bringing them on their knees before the living sacrament? Can we mobilise our parishes- getting everyone to bring new members in? After all – we have the food that this starving world is so desperately in need of!

So three things to aim for. And remember that the new Oxford Movement will not arrive as some great event, with fanfare and ribbons (just us our Saviour did not arrive in splendour but in the modest filth of a stable). A new movement- if it is to happen -will grow in a quiet and unassuming way. We do not need another formal body-time wasted setting up structures and the like- (+we already have SSC and Forward in Faith etc..) No this movement must be purely spiritual, formed when faithful priests and people pray for guidance and are drawn together by the Spirit.

Lord Jesus, make me a part of the new Oxford Movement. Help me to deepen my commitment to you. Help me to deepen my spiritual life and find extra time for prayer and devotion. Help me to stand up for the Gospel with pride and let me never be parted from the true faith which you give us. watch over your church Lord Jesus.