Message of Abbot Paul - Wednesday 15th November 2023
Abbot Paul • November 15, 2023
I must confess that I found the long drive up to Ampleforth yesterday very tiring indeed. Still, I was glad to arrive in one piece and only experienced flooding on the winding country roads between the outskirts of York and Ampleforth. The en suite accommodation in the guesthouse is comfortable and warm and the meeting began with an excellent session shortly after my arrival. I’m really very tired this evening, so I hope you will forgive me if I omit the usual commentary on the Gospel of the day. Be assured that I am keeping you and your loved ones in my prayers. God bless.
On the Commemoration of All Souls, Abbot Brendan reflects on the experience of death within a monastic community, the meaning of Purgatory, and St Benedict’s invitation never to lose hope in the mercy of God.
The Belmont community visit Dowlais, and remember the Benedictine Mission to South Wales as the country remembers the Aberfan disaster.
We welcomed the Knights and Dames from the Midlands and South Wales and thanked God for their mission and service.
A double celebration on the feast of St Michael and All Angels
A School of Love by the Wye: Abbot Brendan on the Cistercians on the Feast of the Holy Cross.
The Blessing of new Icons for the Churches in Stratford-upon-Avon, with inspiring talks by the Abbot Primate and Dr Rowan Williams.
“O Lord, I love the house where you live, the place where your glory abides.”
