Monthly Archives: October 2015

‘Midwinter of the Spirit’: Saints and Sacred Space

Posted on October 15, 2015 by lauravarnam

‘You have to picture the cathedral not just as bricks and mortar but as the accumulated force of centuries of prayer and devotion. It’s like one vast psychic engine but one that can be stopped in its tracks if people’s … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

National Poetry Day: The Virgin Mary lights our way

Posted on October 8, 2015 by lauravarnam

‘Heyl, levedy, se-stoerre bryght, Godes moder, edy wyht, Mayden ever vurst and late, Of hevenriche sely gate.’ [Hail, lady, sea-star bright, / God’s mother, blessed creature, / Mother ever first and last, / of the heavenly kingdom the blessed gate] … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

What to do if a spider falls in the communion wine, and other top tips from John Mirk, Part I

Posted on October 5, 2015 by lauravarnam

In his manual for the clergy, Instructions for Parish Priests, John Mirk (fl. c.1382-1414) explains what to do if a spider, gnat, or fly falls in the communion wine: 3ef any flye, gnat, or coppe Doun in-to þe chalys droppe, … Continue reading →

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 6 Comments