The magazine was launched in January 1914, and Canon Charles C Inge, wrote: It will give me the opportunity, which I have already felt the lack of, of making known in an effective manner the dates and times of Special Services and other engagements and fixtures. It will also contain a record of our doings, which will be not only useful but interesting.
By December 1914, Canon Inge was concerned about problems on the Home Front: The War brings with it very great dangers and anxieties in our home life, which ought to be remembered in our prayers. The presence of a large number of young soldiers in our city involves moral risks, against which we have no adequate safeguards; and we hear of an increase of intemperance, especially among women, which is perhaps the natural result of their having, in many cases, more money and fewer home ties than they are accustomed to. These dangers call for a diligent watchfulness on the part of all in positions of responsibility …. I would appeal for earnest prayer for the weak and the foolish and the unprotected, to whom these days of excitement are so full of danger. We pray, too, that our soldiers may have no unhappy memories of Oxford when they go to face the stern realities of the field of battle.
In November 1932, Canon Inge wrote about the Depression: We are watching anxiously for any signs that this time of distress is passing away. Above all, we are longing to see an increase of employment. I fear this winter is bound to be one of much difficulty and distress, especially in the great industrial centres.
February 1936: The death of the King [George V] has brought a sense of personal sorrow into every household in his Empire. The wonderful fact that we have heard his voice speaking in our own homes has brought him near to us, and is typical of the fact that far more than was possible for any of his predecessors, he has won the love of all his people. … Our Memorial Service was held on the day of the funeral at 12:15, so as not to coincide with the Broadcasts from London and Windsor. The Vicar and Churchwardens have decided, in memory of King George, to make a second distribution of coal to all those who received it at Christmas time.
May 1937: Canon Inge announced that he would be resigning on 1st September: I shall have held the Vicarage, and with it the Chaplaincy of the Radcliffe Infirmary, for 24 years. I am just entering upon my 70th year, and although in good health, I am less active than I was …. On Coronation Day [King George VI, 12th May 1937] there will be a Celebration of Holy Communion at 8, which will, we hope, be largely attended; and the special service appointed for use in Parish Churches will be at 10. It will be quite short, and will be over in time for all who wish to listen to the broadcasting of the proceedings in London.
October 1939: Canon Reginald Diggle wrote: May I call the attention of all readers to the framed “Rolls of Service” in the Church porch, and the Book of Remembrance on the Prayer Desk which has been placed in the nave aisle? I shall be glad to receive names of parishioners and members of the congregation to enter on these as soon as they join any branch of His Majesty’s Forces – even though they may not, as yet, have left Oxford.
Dec 1940: Canon Diggle announced his appointment as Chaplain in the RAF for the duration of the war. With the consent of the Bishop of Oxford, he handed over the charge of St Giles’ parish to the Staff and students of Wycliffe Hall.
February 1941: The Acting Vicar, Canon Ralph Taylor wrote: Two appeals for volunteers: Lady Chalmers has asked me to advertise the need for more Women Volunteers in the work of the Pusey House First Aid Post. Previous knowledge of First Aid treatment is not necessary, as training can be given. The other request comes from Rev Gerald Scott, who asks whether any member of the congregation will kindly lend a spade to a party of Wycliffe Hall men who are “digging for Victory” in the Parks.
In June 1953 (Holy Communion at 8 a.m. on the day of the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II) the Vicar, Canon Diggle wrote: Electricity charges – owing to the special rate for churches having been abolished by the nationalised Electricity Board, the increased charges at our church as estimated by the local officials come to 183%. This represents the proceeds of an extra four Sundays’ collections for church expenses … it is obviously my duty to give warning that we may be forced by the action of the Board to return to the wartime dimmed lighting …..