For very many years, now, we have been seeking to emphasise the Benedictine heritage of the parish dating back so very many centuries, though understandably somewhat interrupted by the shifting sands of history. But that Benedictine life was (and continues to be) much more than the daily round of a monastic community. At the heart of that very rich tradition was the Rule of St Benedict, the father of Western Monasticism, and more latterly, acclaimed as the Patron Saint of Europe! That rule is very well worthwhile re-visiting for those who are seeking some more clear way of living out the Christian Life today.

 

Like so many things it is all too easy to ‘dip’ into things, without discerning the depth and greatness which lies within.

To that end we are pioneering what are effectively ‘Monastic Days’ – one a month, where we seek to focus the entirety of a day on that great Monastic Rule, attempting to focus our community life on worship, celebration, meditation and work.

This includes the recitation and singing of the daily offices, the celebration of the Eucharist, time to eat together, a time of holy study, Lectio Divina,  and an afternoon dedicated to physical work. In time, it is hoped that others will join this activity and come to share in something of the fullness of a praying and working community.

 

Whether or not you are able to participate in this, we would very much value your prayers and support. The next Monastic Day is February 29th when it will follow this pattern:

 

7.30am Lauds

9.30am Terce

10am Holy Eucharist

Noon Sext

5pm Vespers

7pm Healing Liturgy and Compline

 For further information please speak with the clergy or contact us on priory.church@virgin.net