Across

1 Finest learner entering secondary exam (8)

5 Text of Catholic epitaph set in stone (6)

9 Unorthodox idea about withdrawing choral part of mass (5,3)

10 Cleric with most maturity quietly coming to the fore (6)

12 Volume we have bought read aloud as aid to devotion (4,2,5)

15,8D  doubt voiced in scriptures worried hymn writer (5,4)

17 Idealises renovated section of church (4,5)

18 Parvenu, so out to become a big star (9)

19 Harvest offering that man brought in almost undamaged (5)

20 See huge slob wandering around accomodation for clergy (5-6)

24 What was paid by Balthazar, say, at house? (6)

25 Song of penitence from seer struggling in Slough? (8)

26 Untried soldiers bringing in assistance (6)

27 Verity, old corporation's Girl Friday (8)

Down

1 Quiet mother superior's clothing in threadbare state (10)

2 Bob's musicians, possibly a dry group of youngsters (4,2,4)

3 Means of controlling stock as needed in orchestra (5)

4 Medical equipment - doctor chose top sets (12)

6 Holy cases Noel left inside, being short of time (9)

7 Glossed over papers describing church? (4)

8 See 15A

11 Masquerading criminal changing name for a Sunday before Easter (12)

13 Fools planned to cut a valuation (10)

14 Contacts Eastern kinsfolk, briefly lifting ego (4-6)

16 Restriction blocking dodgy remote moneylender (9)

21 Public left on time (5)

22 Flood survivor leaves with rescue team finally (4)

23 Ahab's father, an ancient king of Mercia, oddly (4)

Last week's solution