Across

1 Man about to pinch clerical vestment (7)

5 Mild and merciful as any of several pontiffs (7)

9 Fabulous bird breaking records, flying West (3)

10 Respectful of environment, diocese engaging company and supporter (11)

11 Language used when sending back home-made meal! (7)

12 Excellent Sunday School with source of enthusiasm and expertise (7)

13 Sounds like Bond’s boss came up against little bug (5)

14 Article introducing old reasoning in the matter of divinity (9)

17 Steeds all fancifully decorated (9)

19 Diaphanous? Little hesitation following that woman (5)

20 Mostly used vessel for church service (7)

22 Has the opportunity to duplicate thanks for choral work (7)

23 Copies submitted by writers after furious rant (11)

24 What writers use, helping to maintain knowledge (3)

25 Greeting chap heading back to troubled East (7)

26 An island with grain providing flavouring (7)

Down

1 What may show the throne of God? Remarkable secret may (5,4)

2 Supplier of spices prepared ground cumin dose (9)

3 Second-guess socialist being taken in by old Scot (7)

4 Early OT figure, once wayward husband (5)

5 Rector in study to deal with location of Sabbath debate (9)

6 Enduring being outside, not getting cross (7)

7 Some sad details about ancient books (5)

8 Plant your original couple of melons (5)

14 Swirling up litter with energy — blooming branches! (5,4)

15 Fruit-based syrup: new range to devour (9)

16 Commandeered vehicle, worried about sailor (9)

18 Shepherd’s heart leads to sheep under shelter in hillside settlement (7)

19 Muslim sectarian has damaged sinuses (7)

20 Keeping up alliance with powerful deity (5)

21 Sphere of veritable Frenchman (5)

22 Firm support for national emergency committee (5)

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