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THE READER
Winter 2017
£2.50
Vol 117 No4
On Fire for God
Wild Contents
associates
4 Editorial
RICHENDA MILTON-DAWS
BOOKS AND RESOURCES
Creative, quality design, 5 Message from Bishop Martyn
THE RT REVD MARTYN SNOW
30 Book extract: ‘A theology of science’
from Faith & Wisdom in Science
TOM MCLEISH
branding and publicity
THEME – SPIRITUALITY
32 Lines from Lindchester
CATHERINE FOX
We listen,
6 Spirituality in motion – walking the Camino
GERTRUD SOLLARS
33 Book reviews
give customers what they need
on time,
8 Developing good spiritual habits
CATHERINE PRICE
CRC NEWS
at a sensible price 10 Franciscan spirituality and Reader ministry
ROGER HEALEY
38 ALayNarrative of Hope:
Ministry and Renewal & Reform
...and we’re very nice
people to work with! 12 Walking the labyrinth as a spiritual practice
JACQUELINE TIVERS
ROSEMARY WALTERS
14 ‘Soul language’ – the spirituality of words
MARK OAKLEY 39 Introducing Richard Havergal
01736 333 449
kw@wildassociates.com 16 Spirituality in later life
DEBBIE THROWER 40 Notices
wildassociates.com
CONFERENCE REPORT
41 n Memoriam
I
18 A feast indeed – the Festival of Preaching
KIRSTY ANDERSON
41 Gazette
FEATURE ARTICLES
42 Letters from Readers
20 Mud, mud, glorious mud
ALAN WAKELY
43 Postscript
ANDREW WALKER
22 The money taboo
JOHN SHERLOCK
24 Mleading
inistering to the bereaved:
a good funeral View r
de
SUZI TIPPER
The Rea e
onlin can.org
26 Revealing the light of Christ’s love
HEATHER STANLEY
aders .cofe.angl
i
re
28 Lenten journeys
GEOFF BRAMMALL
6 19 21 28
2 3
Welcome to THE READER Message from Bishop Martyn
The Right Reverend Martyn Snow is Bishop of Leicester and Chair of the Central Readers’ Council.
W
elcome to this, the Feature articles include Alan
last 2017, issue of The Wakely’s third article on First GENERAL ENQUIRIES
Reader. The theme World War memorials, a Email I am delighted that this edition of The Reader is focusing on spirituality. Long ago, I was struck by Paul’s
of ‘Spirituality’ was chosen challenge to think honestly about crcsec@btinternet.com
words to the Ephesian elders (Acts 20:28) and the order of those words:
Tel
before I became editor, but what money by John Sherlock, some
a pleasure it has been to work
07725 069534 ‘Keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock, of which the Holy Spirit has made you
really practical guidelines for Editor
with! I have received so many Readers involved in (or thinking editor@cofereadermag.co.uk overseers, to shepherd the church of God that he obtained with the blood of his own Son.’
interesting ideas and articles that about) funeral ministry from NB NEW EMAIL ADDRESS We cannot watch over the flock unless we are watching over ourselves (and yes, this applies as much to
I am sure I could have filled the Suzi Tipper, an insight into the CIRCULATION ENQUIRIES Readers as to Bishops!). I hope you enjoy this issue.
issue twice over. The variety and work of Embrace the Middle AND CHANGES OF ADDRESS
However, I want to use this space to flag up some consultations soon to be taking place on the future
quality of the themed articles, almost all of East and some innovative suggestions from Email
of Reader ministry. In July, I wrote to all Diocesan Wardens of Readers to invite them, together with
mo.cheesman@churchofengland.org
which are by Readers, are an indicator of Geoff Brammall about how to mark Lent.
spiritual health. They also show how Reader between three and five others from their diocese, to come to a regional consultation event early next year.
Our Books and resources section in this issue INFORMATION FOR GAZETTE
ministry can find new and exciting ways of not only includes an extra page of reviews, AND IN MEMORIAM A number of us from the Central Readers’ Council have blocked out a series of days in our diaries from
reaching people who claim to be ‘spiritual it also features an extract from an exciting Email
gazette@cofereadermag.co.uk
January to March 2018, to travel the country attending these regional events.
but not religious’. work on faith and science by Professor Tom PRODUCTION TEAM We will be exploring a number of pressing questions:
The first of our theme articles, by CRC McLeish from Durham University – and an Editor
Vice-chair Gertrud Sollars, looks at the
practice of pilgrimage as she reflects on her
opportunity to hear from author Catherine
Fox whose books delight many of us. Don’t
Richenda Milton-Daws
Reviews Editor • Reader vocations: given the national objective of raising clergy vocations by 50 per cent, should we
own experience of walking the Camino.
Peter Clough have the same target for Readers?
miss the later pages either – Rosemary
Advertising Managers
Catherine Price and Roger Healey give two Walters on Renewal & Reform, a continuation
• T raining of Readers: given that this happens in quite different ways across dioceses, what has been
Wild Associates Ltd
different approaches to living out a Rule of of our ‘Introducing’ feature and a really Design
Life as part of a secular religious community, rousing Postscript. I hope you will enjoy all of Wild Associates Ltd
helpful, and what has not been helpful?
while Jacqueline Tivers explores the way an these contributions as much as I have. Editorial Committee Chair
Marion Gray
age-old symbol, the labyrinth, can be used to
deepen our prayer life and awareness of the
This magazine would not exist without
your contributions however, and I have been THE CENTRAL READERS’ COUNCIL • S upport of Readers: again, how can we share good practice across dioceses?
OF THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND
presence of God. thrilled by the quality of material offered.
How many times do we hear that the Themes for the next few issues are: Lay
Chair
The Bishop of Leicester, • T he role of Readers: given that there are now so many other authorised or licensed lay ministries
Church of England is an ageing church? Ministry – Where are we now? (Spring 2018; the Rt Revd Martyn Snow (pioneers, children’s workers, youth workers, worship leaders etc.), how does Reader ministry fit
And yet, as Debbie Thrower shows, we can copy needed imminently and certainly by Vice-chair within this ecology?
Gertrud Sollars
learn much from the spirituality of our 20th November), War and Peace (Summer
Secretary
elders even as we minister to them – and 2018; copy needed by mid-February 2018), Andrew Walker
The last question is arguably the most important. For the best part of 150 years, if a lay person
while ministering to them does present Ministering with the Young (Autumn 2018; Associate Secretary
wanted to exercise ministry in the church, they were admitted and licensed as a Reader. Their day-to-
challenges there are some excellent resources copy needed mid-May) and Preaching on Susanne Mitchell
available to help us. Paul (Winter 2018; copy needed by the first day ministry varied enormously – some did lots of preaching, others lots of pastoral work, others lots of
THE READER aims to assist the
A key function of our role as Readers is week in August to take account of seasonal ten thousand Readers in the British Isles community work.
and Europe in the exercise
to preach. If you love words and want to holidays). I look forward to hearing from you. of their ministry by stimulating But all this has changed in the last ten years. Pastoral Workers now take funerals in some dioceses.
them theologically and encouraging
harness their power, you will find Mark them to spread the gospel of Worship Leaders now lead services in many places. So what now is the need to which Reader ministry is
Oakley’s article about the power of language Jesus Christ effectively in their dioceses.
THE READER reflects the work of the the response (to quote someone from our last AGM)? I believe we need to articulate a very clear answer to
inspirational. Kirsty Anderson was lucky Central Readers’ Council and the Church
of England generally, while being aware this question if we are to see new and younger vocations to Reader ministry in the future.
enough to hear him at the Festival of of the worldwide Anglican Communion.
Preaching held in Oxford in September. Read THE READER is available in the UK So please pray for us as we undertake this series of consultation meetings. And please feel free to write
for £8.00 for four issues a year,
her report on page 18. Like me, you’ll wish from the Central Readers’ Council, in with your own views (email the CRC Secretary Andrew Walker on crcsec@btinternet.com ).
Church House,
you’d been there too! Richenda Milton-Daws Great Smith Street, The next issue of The Reader (Spring 2018) will be devoted to exploring
London
SW1P 3AZ. these questions and updating you on emerging plans. And the next CRC AGM
Cheques should be made payable
to The Central Readers’ Council. which will take place on Saturday 21st April 2018 in Birmingham, will, we
ISSN 0300-3469 hope, mark the launch of a renewed offer to the wider church.
The cover photograph is by Malmesbury-based photographer Charity Commission no. 271916
© Copyright of THE READER is held by the
Robert Peel, and we are grateful to him for permission to use Central Readers’ Council. Material is accepted
for publication on the basis that it may need to
it. Autumn sunlight pours through the branches of the tree be edited or shortened. The views of
contributors are their own and do not
beside the town’s ancient Abbey (now a lively parish church) necessarily reflect those held by the Central
Readers’ Council. The acceptance of
and is reflected on the wet path. So too may the love of God
advertisements does not imply endorsement.
Permission to reproduce material that appears
Martyn
in THE READER must be sought in writing. Bishop of Leicester
be reflected in our hearts and lives.
4 5
Spirituality in motion
THEME
by those who could – no organ, no Santiago me to walk the Camino using albergues.
guitar, no accompaniment at all; it In the Cathedral, there is a side chapel. That’s like real life, too – some can
sounded wonderful. It has all the usual furnishings of a afford to stay in comfortable hotels
– walking the Camino
Afterwards, the peregrinos were Roman Catholic chapel – an altar, with en-suite bathroom and a waiter
called to the front and blessed. And candles, a statue of the Madonna – and bringing breakfast; others have to share
then the priest added, in English, ‘When then it has, rather incongruously, a a dormitory with thirty snoring fellow
you come to Santiago and go into the table and two chairs arranged opposite pilgrims and have to carry all their stuff
Cathedral, pray also for this church.’ It each other. I wondered about this, on their backs.
In May 2017, Gertrud Sollars and her friend Judith walked the Camino Inglés from is as if every place on the way has an when I spotted the name of the chapel,
invisible link forward to Santiago. mounted on a sign on the grille:
Ferrol on the north-western corner of Spain to Santiago de Compostela. What struck CAPILLA DE LA MISERICORDIA
Carballeira Dejaos reconciliar con Dios. ‘Chapel of
them most about the experience was the kindness of the people they met. Gertrud As we walked into the village, a small mercy. Let us be reconciled with God.’
dog was waiting for us in the middle There in Santiago, and surely not just
describes some of their encounters. of the road. He ran to greet us, tail there but all along our pilgrimage,
I
wagging but making no noise, and God sits at a table with an empty chair,
f you had asked me why I wanted Happy are those whose strength Spanish it says, ‘Yo proceeded to accompany us for a good waiting for us to come and have a chat.
to go on this pilgrimage, I would is in you, soy camino’. I am the five or six kilometres. Sometimes he However far we have made it on our
have said ‘because it is there, and whose hearts are set on the pilgrim’s way. Camino! was ahead, sometimes behind, but quest, however many times we have
I like walking’. It seemed like a good As they go through the desolate valley At the end of always close. As the route left the road tried and failed, hauled back by our
idea. The writers of the guidebook they find it a place of springs, the mass the parish to turn right into a wood, he turned own weakness or misguided desires, he
warn: ‘… be wary of setting your for the early rains have covered it with right and looked back to make sure is there, longing for us to join him at
spiritual expectations too high. Many pools of water. we were following. When we stopped the table.
pilgrims spend their Camino waiting at a bar for a coffee, he sat in the In many ways of course a pilgrimage
for their epiphany, the life-changing At this point it was chucking it down door, patiently waiting for us to take is a metaphor for the rest of life. You
moment of enlightenment that they with rain outside, which made the up our packs and move on. We were walk with and towards a distant goal,
feel is promised to them on pilgrimage, psalm particularly apt! just beginning to wonder what to do you follow signposts and worry when
only to be disappointed when it never We walked into Neda at 7 o’clock, about him, when a car drew up, a man you run out, you stop at junctions and
arrives. Every pilgrim’s experience is ravenous after our first day’s walk. This got out, the dog cowered in the road, consult the guidebook where you are
A certified pilgrim!
different.’1 Quite so. Interestingly, a few was Spain – outside every restaurant the man grabbed him, smacked him uncertain, and if you read back over
The scallop shell given to me at
weeks after our return, I came across ‘hora 20.00’. Our question ‘food?’ in Pontedeume, and good wishes on the wall.
over the nose and drove off with him, the stretch you’ve just walked, you
this quote by the Bishop of Dover: the local bar met with a shake of the ‘Buen Camino!’ muttering imprecations. It was obvious realise you missed a lot of interesting Summing up
‘Pilgrimage is not just about getting head. We sat down with two glasses that this was not the first time our little landmarks. You walk alongside others By the time we reached our
from A to B, but about the invitation of wine, and the landlady, recognising priest aesked any peregrinos to come friend had tried to make it to Santiago, – some you get to know quite well, destination, we had walked 185,000
to accept encounters; encounters with our plight, got busy. First a large bag forward, and he read a prayer over us and probably not the second time others you only bump into at the hotel steps (Judith’s app counted) and 120
oneself, with others, with God, and of crisps; then a rummage in the room of which I could make out ‘protection’ either. He was a seasoned peregrino, or stopping for coffee. What is unlike kilometres (75 miles). Some of it was
with the environment.’2 next door produced a tin of olives, then and ‘night’, and he sprinkled us with only prevented from reaching his goal life is that, in real life, nobody picks up quite tough – two 20-mile days in a
a plate of biscuits and chocolate. The holy water and wished us a buen by a furious owner who had to get into row, some long, steep hills. I was glad
bill, after two more glasses of wine - camino. His verger lady stamped the car at regular intervals and pursue I had my waterproof overtrousers and
€10.50. This was just the first of many our pilgrim passports and gave us a his pet down the Camino. my friend. Walking with Judith was
kindnesses shown to us by the ‘locals’, scallop shell each and wished us a buen a joy. We told each other our stories,
and I thought of the tradition that camino. We should wish each other a talked deep and not so deep, had lots
those who help a pilgrim partake in the buen camino more often. of laughs, shared insights, walked
benefits accrued by and for the pilgrim. in silence. It was a very comfortable
Not quite sure what benefits I had in Betanzos companionship, quite a gift.
mind – definitely not an indulgence! Another pilgrim mass, this one very Judith’s legs are rather longer than
well attended, because it was Saturday mine. When we set out, the ‘tick
Pontedeume evening. The priest began by taking ticks’ of our walking poles staggered.
Another search for food. We asked a basin of holy water and a bunch After a few days, we both noticed
a couple of elderly gentlemen sitting of twigs and sprinkling the whole The dog who wanted to walk to Santiago.
that we were walking (and ‘ticking’)
in a street café the directions to a congregation, down the central aisle in step with each other. Her strides
restaurant. We did not realise one of and up the side aisles, with obvious I found myself wondering how had become shorter and mine longer.
them would get up out of his seat (with enthusiasm. All responses were said far my life is like that of the little What an image! When we walk
difficulty) and limp down the road with from memory, and the hymns were canine. How often do I set out with alongside Jesus, the longer we walk
Entry from my journal on the evening of our
arrival in Ferrol: ‘Spent a long time looking us, to the next corner, pointing the way. led from somewhere in the first enthusiasm on some quest, pursue it with him, the closer our pace will be
for scallop shell way markers and eventually In the evening, we went to the few pews. Harmonies were added for a bit, and then something pulls me to his.
found the first one by looking UP. pilgrim mass at the local church. The back, distracts me and brings me back The Chapel of Mercy – a place to sit with God.
gospel reading was from John 14. I got near to where I started? Fortunately
The first day the gist of it because of the references for me the distraction is not usually a your suitcase after breakfast and drives Gertrud Sollars is a Reader
On waking I found that morning to Tomás and Jesus. And Jesus said man who smacks me on the nose. The it to the next hotel – in my experience, in the Diocese of Guildford
prayer included Psalm 84: to Thomas – I am the Way. Only in (metaphorical) smacking I do to myself you carry your load unless you find and Vice-chair of the
when I realise that another one of my ways of sharing it with a friend or Jesus. Central Readers’ Council.
References plans or good intentions has run into Maybe the hostel experience is closer
1
Dave Whitson and Laura Perazzoli, The Northern Caminos, Cicerone, 2016, p.25. At Betanzos. the sand. to real life, but that still wouldn’t tempt
2
Surge in numbers on pilgrimage routes is welcomed, Church Times, 26 May 2017.
6 7
Developing good spiritual habits
THEME
and learning – to attain more closely our Christian commitment. enough to pass our tests, but it is the
the ideal that Paul sets out, not just in Our Rules are personal to us, but experience of driving, of doing 10,
patterns of worship and prayer but, they have common elements, which are 20, 50, gear changes in a journey, of
even more crucially, in the quality of based on the Benedictine Rule. They parking, of tackling difficult junctions,
Working in community with others, following a Rule of Life and encouraging each other in prayer the relationships that we have with each are designed to help us get into good that are what makes us good drivers.
and discipline, can help us to develop our life of faith. Catherine Price explains how one church other, with other Christians, and in the habits of prayer, of Bible reading, of We can learn the basic grammar of a
families and communities in which attending church, of making ourselves language, but it is speaking it, listening
draws on its monastic heritage for inspiration. they live. accountable, of being patient with each to it, reading it regularly that enables us
We decided to call the community other, of living lives of simplicity and to become fluent.
life are these two things: prayer and to take the business of discipleship ‘The Community of St Aldhelm’ after service, of being creative in mission. I believe it is the same with Christian
thanksgiving to God, and outgoing, seriously. We recognise that we are all Malmesbury’s first abbot. One reason We can also choose to have up discipleship. It is only by speaking and
unselfish love in all our human beginners, all learners, and that we that we felt that Aldhelm would be a to three Personal Rules. Everyone’s listening to God in prayer regularly,
relationships. These are God’s family have a long way to go before we can good patron for us is that he was an Personal Rules are different. My by returning to him over and over
values, the distinctive character of the realise the full glory of Paul’s vision for amazing street evangelist and church Personal Rules are about committing again, by learning the habits of how to
Christian community. the church. planter, and we don’t want to lose myself to taking physical exercise, interact well with the men and women
From the eighth century right sight of the need to be outward looking eating healthily and drinking alcohol that we meet, by challenging ourselves
‘Clothe yourselves with compassion, through to the dissolution of the and missional. in moderation, because those are all to be more missional, that we will get
kindness, humility, gentleness and monasteries under Henry VIII, We launched on 25 May 2016, St things I have had problems with over these behaviours into the ‘muscle-
patience. Bear with each other and Malmesbury Abbey in North Wiltshire Aldhelm’s Feast Day, so we have been the years. They also commit me to the memory’ of our minds and hearts.
forgive one another if any of you was home to a Benedictine community. going for a year and a half, and a continuing care and support of my
has a grievance against someone. The strap-line for the church number of us have renewed our Rule sister, who is blind. A Prayer of St Benedict
Forgive as the Lord forgave you; community that worships in the Abbey of Life for a second year. During this Why do we think that a Rule of
just as the Lord has forgiven you, now (the church where I minister) is period, some people have left and others Life will help us to work better in the O Gracious and Holy Father,
so you also must forgive. Above all, ‘Stability – Hospitality – Creativity’. A have joined, so we are about twenty- Kingdom of God? One answer to that give us wisdom to perceive You,
clothe yourselves with love, which stable church community must be one strong at present. Our aim is to build is that I think that, as human beings, diligence to seek You,
binds everything together in perfect that takes discipleship seriously. The a community which is characterised when we are learning to do something
harmony. And let the peace of Christ challenge that we in the ministry team by ‘compassion, kindness, humility, difficult – like driving a car, or playing patience to wait for You,
rule in your hearts, to which indeed have been trying to address is how gentleness and patience’ in the way that a musical instrument, or studying a eyes to behold You,
you were called in the one body. And we can help each other to learn good its members interact with each other language – we have to practise, and a heart to meditate upon You,
be thankful.’ [Colossians 3: 13–15] habits of discipleship. We are not alone and with their wider circle. We are we benefit from repetition. The best and a life to proclaim You,
in this. trying to build a community which is musicians in the world – the ones
Paul’s words are a challenge to us all, In the autumn of 2014, Archbishop held together by love for God and for who make it look effortless – still do through the power of the Spirit of
The St Adhelm window at Malmesbury Abbey just as they must have been to the Justin came to speak to all lay and each other, in order that we should be their practice every day. When we are Jesus Christ our Lord,
I
Colossian church back in the first ordained ministers in our diocese. He able to offer an authentic expression of learning to drive a car, we can get good Amen.
f I think about the way I was century AD. observed then that every revival in the
brought up, my parents had When my children were young, a church has been accompanied by a
fantastic family values. They gave wise friend said to me ‘Your job as a renewing of the religious life. He didn’t The Rule of The Community of St Aldhelm To find out more
us unconditional love, they were very parent is to raise viable adults’. I think just mean monasticism – he included Each member of the Community undertakes to draw up, in consultation with
kind, patient, forgiving. They had great Paul saw his role – as a missionary and the coming of Methodism under John Read more about the Community of St
the Lay Prior, a personal Rule of Life giving practical application to the ideals set
faith in God. But does this mean that church planter – in similar terms. He Wesley – but any movement in which Adhelm at:
out below as is appropriate for his or her circumstances.
there was never a cross word in our planted all these baby churches and www.malmesburyabbey.com/community-
men and women commit themselves
household? Does it mean that no doors he had to help them grow into mature The Common Rule of-st-aldhelm
afresh to a regular pattern of prayer and
were ever slammed, no-one stormed communities. That’s why he wrote his Bible study. Archbishop Justin has led
Rule 1 We commit to saying Anglican Morning Prayer or some other For more information about the
off to their room, or lost their tempers letters, and that’s why they found their the way by inaugurating the Community
or had a hissy fit? I regret to report way into our New Testament: because of St Anselm at Lambeth Palace. recognised morning office daily, either in community with others or Community of St Anselm (founded
the answer is ‘no’. Similarly, when my Paul’s vision for what a Christian That led me and others to think alone, wherever we are. by Archbishop Justin Welby)
husband and I were bringing up our community should be, or could be, about whether there might be value in go to: stanselm.org.uk
Rule 2 We commit to a second period of personal or shared prayer and Bible or the Archbishop’s website at:
own children, was our household like didn’t just apply in 61 AD. It has trying to apply some of the principles reading each day.
always a scene of calm where everyone applied through every century since, www.archbishopofcanterbury.org/articles.
of monasticism to help us grow as
spoke in loving and patient tones? and will continue to apply until time php/5668/an-experiment-in-monastic-life-
disciples by following a Rule of Life Rule 3 We commit to prioritising Sunday worship, and to receiving
Again I regret to report that the answer comes to an end. the-community-of-st-anselm-on-their-year-
that would encourage good spiritual Communion if it is our custom to do so.
is ‘no’. And when I look around the In Christian circles we call this in-gods-time
habits. We haven’t been using the Rule
churches that I have belonged to over process – of teaching churches and of Benedict in its entirety: that was Rule 4 We commit to meet regularly with other members of the community to
the last 60 years, have I never seen individuals what they should be like designed to regulate monastic houses, eat together and share fellowship.
bad behaviour or selfishness or anger – ‘discipleship’. The word ‘disciple’, and we are ordinary men and women Catherine Price is a
Rule 5 We commit to lives of holiness, kindness and simplicity, and to make
or unkindness? Again, regretfully, the from the Latin word meaning pupil or living in families and neighbourhoods Licensed Lay Minister
answer is ‘no’. learner, reminds us that, whatever stage in the modern world. However, our ourselves accountable to others.
(Reader) in the Bristol
For St Paul, writing nearly 2000 we are at in the Christian life, we have Rule does draw to some extent on the Rule 6 We commit to serving God in mission with holy imagination. Diocese serving in the
years ago, one distinctive feature of the things to learn. Abbey’s monastic tradition and seek Upper Avon Group which
Christian life was about behaving in a Down the centuries, Christians have to apply its principles in a twenty-first Rule 7 We commit to a day of rest at least once a week, where possible. includes Malmesbury
loving way towards other people, while been trying to get to grips with how century parish church setting. We take Abbey and three small rural
another equally important feature was to live out God’s family values in their Colossians 3:12–17 as our foundational The Personal Rules
churches. She is Lay Prior
about a thankful attitude in worship. own time and context. Here, in the text. The aim of the Community is – Up to three personal rules can be added. of the Community of
For him, the hallmarks of a Christian twenty-first century, we are also trying through shared spiritual disciplines St Adhelm.
8 9
Franciscan spirituality
THEME
more simply by buying food items that been in existence ever since. Members Members make a commitment to pray
are produced locally and in their natural of each Order follow a Rule of Life, for one another, to read the Principles
season. We do not really need all the living according to the Franciscan Aims, daily, and make an annual contribution
and Reader ministry luxury items that are on offer.
Francis and the church
Objective and Principles.
The number of Franciscan Orders has
increased since Francis’s day, but the
towards the work of the Third Order.
The Principles are designed to keep
members aware on a daily basis of the
Although Francis’s vision for life was structure of the Franciscan movement Franciscan way. Saying them daily helps
For the last twenty years Roger Healey’s life has been greatly influenced by Franciscan radical, he always remained firmly remains in the three Orders he founded. to embed them in the consciousness,
rooted in the church and held priests In the Anglican Communion SSF First helping us to follow the example of
spirituality, and its emphasis on the deeds and words of Jesus as given in the gospels. He and the sacraments in high regard. Order has a presence mainly in the UK, Francis in living a life of prayer, service,
explains why a saint who died nearly nine centuries ago has so much to offer us today. Such were Francis’s personality and Australia, USA, the Solomon Islands, humility and joy.
C
conviction that from an early stage he and Papua New Guinea. The Third
hurch life is not always simple, and a ‘you/I deserve it’ approach to life had the support and backing of the Order has many more members and is
particularly for those who can be insidiously tempting. However, Bishop of Assisi. His gift to the church more widely distributed. If this article has made you curious and
exercise a ministry, including of remembering the ideal of living simply of his day – and ours – was a vision of a In England, Hilfield Friary in Dorset you would like to learn more, and if you
course Reader ministry. There can be can cause a person to pause and think new approach to Christian life. is often regarded as the main centre. do not know a Third Order member
periods of difficulty when church life is about how they live. Luxury will not Readers and other ministers today However the First Order Brothers you can contact the Provincial Novice
not straightforward. Particularly at such in the long run make us any happier; it may have ideas that are contrary to and Sisters are fairly well distributed Guardian: Peter Dixon at Dove House,
times, I have found it helpful to belong has a transient effect, and on reflection practices in their home churches, but throughout the country. The Second 4 New Road, Uttoxeter, ST14 7DB
to something outside the normal church it can often be seen to be simply a form the lesson from Francis is to remain Order Sisters live at Freeland Convent Tel: 01889 569722
structures that act as a unifying factor of escapism. faithful and work for change from near Oxford. A number of the friaries Email: novguard@tssf.org.uk
in my life. Being a member of the Third where they are, always remembering have facilities for guests to visit and
Order of the Society of St Francis (TSSF) Respect for creation the authority and accountability under stay. Hilfield, in particular, runs short Film and video
gives me a foundation and reminds me Francis was born and grew up in which they minister. residential courses and retreats. The For a talk about the spirituality of Francis
that God is always present. Assisi, a beautiful part of Italy where On occasion I have been asked to Hilfield community includes friars and and Clare, go to:
he was surrounded by spectacular devise a specifically Franciscan act of volunteers; some of the volunteers spend youtube.com/watch?v=85dqlcoilYw
Who was Francis? natural beauty. An important part worship, perhaps a special Evening a year or more as part of the community. ‘Bronx to Bradford: Friars on a Mission
Born in Assisi, Northern Italy, St Statue of St Francis in the Canticle Garden of Franciscan spirituality relates to Prayer. My reaction has always been There is on-going work on sustainable 2017’ is a documentary following five
at Hilfield Friary.
Francis lived from 1181 or 1182 to creation and the environment. Francis doubtful about doing such a thing. living and care of the environment Roman Catholic friars in the North of
1226. These were challenging times long on the poverty and the passion of had an affinity for all living creatures. Franciscan worship as I know it is very involving livestock, a large garden, England, loving God and serving the
for the church, and as Francis’s calling Christ, eventually receiving the marks of One story tells how he moved a worm largely Anglican; there are prayers woodland, and meadow. It is a place that poor with joy. It gives a good picture of
became clearer to him he realised God the stigmata. So Franciscan spirituality from a path to remove it from danger. written by St Francis, but Franciscan works hard to care for God’s creation Franciscan spirituality in action and can
was asking him to give the church a is prayerful, and it is concerned with There is also the well-known tale of worship for Anglican Franciscans is in all that it does – an experiment be viewed at
new and radical vision. Not, as he had serving others wherever or whoever the wolf of Gubbio. This wolf, we are Anglican. Indeed in the past SSF friars from which others can learn. It is also youtube.com?watch?v=SL9TGKRaVpA&t
first thought, to rebuild local church they might be. told, had been devouring livestock and have been right at the centre of devising an exercise in community living with =67s
buildings which were in need of repair; even killing people living in the city so and revising the orders of services both friars and lay people, including
rather something more fundamental Following Francis today the terrified people called Francis for we use in the Church of England. women and children; an example of Books
was asked of Francis. Arguably the Twenty-first century Franciscans help. Francis made friends with the Some years ago Brother Tristam SSF Christians from varying backgrounds Br Ramon SSF, Franciscan Spirituality:
church finds itself in a similar position continue their concern for the poor wolf and an agreement was reached was instrumental in the production and nationalities living together in Following St Francis Today, 2nd Ed,
in our time as it faces well-known and outcast and where possible make that the wolf would stop terrorising of Celebrating Common Prayer, the community with a common aim. SPCK, 2008.
challenges and reducing influence. this a focus for ministry and service. the local inhabitants, who, in return, forerunner of Common Worship. There are approximately 2,000 Third Delio, Ilia OSF, Franciscan Prayer,
Francis emphasised poverty and There is much scope for help: prayer, would provide him with food. Wolf and Order members (Tertiaries) spread St Anthony Messenger Press, 2004.
simplicity in his spirituality and way of financial, as well as practical. For humans lived peaceably together from The Franciscan Orders throughout the UK, with others in
life. Although counter-cultural, it was an example Franciscan groups support a that day on, and the animal was given In his lifetime Saint Francis founded and Scandinavia, North America, Africa Pitchford, Susan, Following Francis:
approach that people found attractive mother and baby refuge, basics banks, an honorable burial at the end of its encouraged three Franciscan Orders. and elsewhere. Third Order members The Franciscan Way for Everyone,
and his following grew rapidly. and night shelters. Franciscan Aid works life. Even if we don’t necessarily believe Not surprisingly the first of these was are organised in small groups and larger Morehouse Publishing, 2006.
Francis was much concerned for the through local Franciscans across the all the details of this story to be strictly the First Order of Friars Minor, for men areas each of which is led by an area Short, William J OFM, Poverty and Joy:
welfare of lepers who epitomised the developing world to relieve poverty and accurate, it is a powerful illustration of who were attracted by Francis’s vision team. Areas are grouped into clusters The Franciscan Tradition, DLT 1999
outcasts and poor of his day. Indeed advance education in the world’s poorest the importance of respecting and caring of living simply in small communities. and the whole Order is overseen by a
a leper played a significant role in countries. Living simply can result in for God’s creation. Friars Minor have always worked both provincial chapter. Straub, Gerard Thomas, The Sun and
Francis recognising his calling. This freeing resources for use by others. Environmental issues and concerns in a friary and more widely. There are two important requirements Moon Over Assisi: a personal encounter
came about when Francis encountered The way of St Francis can be thought are important for Franciscans, and The foundation of the First Order was for membership of the Third Order: a with Francis and Clare, St Anthony
a leper some distance from Assisi. Up of as a way of rebellion. It is also link with the themes of poverty and quickly followed by the formation of the desire to live by following the way of Messenger Press, 2001
to that time lepers had filled Francis counter-cultural today for people to simplicity. For example personal travel, Second Order of enclosed sisters led at St Francis, and a desire to belong to an
with revulsion, but on this occasion he try living simpler lives; looking for a and transport of goods in general, have first by Saint Clare. They were, and are order. Each member has an individual Websites
overcame the instinct to run, instead way that takes the focus away from an a significant effect on pollution and use still, known as ‘The Poor Clares’. Rule of Life that follows a set pattern tssf.org.uk
he embraced the leper. It was a holy individual’s personal wishes and desires. of resources. And ideally we should use Before long people from many walks but is drafted to suit the individual’s franciscans.org.uk
moment of conversion for the young The Franciscan Principles of Poverty cars that are as small and fuel efficient of life began to be attracted by St Francis’s circumstances. There is a discernment hilfieldfriary.org.uk
Francis, and a way into serving those and Simplicity are closely linked themes as possible. message and ideals and wanted to period and process for new enquirers, Roger Healey is a Reader
on the margins of society. that help to focus more attention on the Because of their vow of poverty become involved. As it was not possible followed by a further six months as (LLM) in the Diocese
Above all though, Francis was a man deprivation that is suffered by many Francis and his early brothers relied on for married people or those with a postulant, and a two-year novitiate of Winchester and a
of prayer. He would pray all through people in the world. begging for their food. This is something important responsibilities to join the First before profession when vows are made. member of the Third
the night – and indeed all through For followers of Francis today’s living that is not possible in our society. or Second Order, the Third Order was Members renew their vows each year, Order of the Society of
the daylight hours too. He meditated simply is not always easy, consumerism Perhaps, however, we could try to eat founded for them. All three Orders have usually at Francistide in early October. Saint Francis (TSSF).
10 11
Walking the labyrinth
THEME
Labyrinths: a short history
3
•
as a spiritual practice
The Reformation brought an end to pilgrimage and the
Christian use of turf labyrinths. Only eight medieval
examples remain in the English countryside.4
Labyrinths are spiritual and sacramental spaces of ancient origin, their use being closely • Labyrinths also fell out of use in churches and cathedrals in
Europe: most of them disappeared after the Reformation.
related to the practice of pilgrimage. Jacqueline Tivers explores how they may be used as
• It was not until the late twentieth century that labyrinths
an aid to prayer and spiritual growth by churches today. began to be widely used again by Christians (and others),
alongside an increased concern for ‘spirituality’.
• The two most common designs of labyrinth are the • The first permanent modern labyrinth was installed in
‘Cretan’ (left) linked to the myth of Daedalus and the Grace Cathedral, San Francisco in 1994, after a campaign
Minotaur’s labyrinth, and the specifically Christian ‘Chartres’ by Canon Lauren Artress.5
design (right) which first appeared in the tenth century.
• Within a decade, there were thousands of sites in
• The earliest labyrinths date from at least as far back as 2000 many types of location – churches and cathedrals,
BC. The oldest known church labyrinth is in Algeria, dating but also ‘secular’ places such as hospitals or schools.
from the fourth century AD.
• In 2013, artist Mark Wallinger was commissioned to
Portable labyrinth at Jacqueline’s church. Saffron Walden turf labrynth. The labyrinth at Grace Cathedral, San Francisco.
• Medieval Christian labyrinths may have been designed create 270 unique labyrinth artworks for London
to replace pilgrimage journeys to specific holy places, when Underground; look for them in station entrance halls, on
circumstances made these impossible. platforms or in connecting tunnels.
T • •
ype the word ‘labyrinth’ individual spiritual journeys or ‘indoor Contemplative walking of a labyrinth
into Google and you will pilgrimages’. By following the winding has once again become popular. In England, outdoor ‘turf ’ labyrinths were cut following Modern labyrinths in ‘secular’ locations are rarely used
access 1.75 million Internet path and reaching the centre, the Medieval labyrinths, such as the one at the same design as those in churches in Italy and France. for prayerful contemplation or walking, unlike those in
pages, illustrating the range of pilgrim could learn how circuitous was Chartres, are once again being used in They were probably used in similar ways. church settings.
subjects relevant to the topic, their journey towards God.1 this way too.
including individual sites of Pilgrimage is a spiritual practice that In addition to fixed labyrinths, many
labyrinths, mythology, facilitiation, encompasses embodiment. A pilgrim’s churches today use portable labyrinths whenever they wish to do so and to was a great atmosphere of expectation Walking the labyrinth
construction, films, societies, movement is not a distraction, but to facilitate prayer and meditation choose their own speed of progress. and interest. The service was deliberately If you have never visited a labyrinth
images, and instructions for use. the essence of that practice; indeed, at specific events or for a range of Many people like to stop in the centre focused on the labyrinth (chairs having before, don’t worry! A labyrinth is
Labyrinths are also referred to in a it is bodily movement that separates purposes. According to Sally Welch2, for a period of time. been moved out to accommodate it) not a maze. There are no dead ends
wide variety of popular literature pilgrimage from other types of spiritual labyrinths may be used to: As part of my studies for an MTh with the period of walking taking place and there is no choice of path. You
– books, magazines, poems and encounter. Pilgrimage combines this degree at St. John’s College, Nottingham, accompanied by reflective music and cannot get lost or make a mistake,
leaflets – often relating to New embodied practice of journeying with • improve mission; I used a portable labyrinth in my subdued lighting – all elements that provided you keep going forwards.
Age, Buddhist, or other types of a focus on the Sacred and a withdrawal • share worship; church for a week in June 20136. This would tend to emphasise the labyrinth Once started, you will always reach
‘spirituality’. By contrast, with a from normal life, all of which are • bhelp
uild community; labyrinth was based on the modern ‘St. as ‘sacred space’. Everyone read the the centre. You will follow a different
few notable exceptions, Christian
theology books barely mention
also important for labyrinth walking.
Some scholars argue that medieval
• churches grow in wisdom. Paul’s’ design, used for the Millennium
labyrinth installed at St. Paul’s Cathedral
introductory notes before setting out
and most people carefully followed the
path from the centre to the exit, so
you do not need to retrace your steps
labyrinths. This is sad because Christian labyrinths may have been A labyrinth may be walked individually in London. lines, while ‘quiet, appropriate music’ at all. There are arrows at various points
for centuries they were closely designed to replace longer pilgrimage or in groups, as part of worship services Sixty-seven ‘visits’ were made to the was played. on the route, so you can focus on
associated with Christian spirituality journeys to specific holy places, made or at other times, and by adults, young labyrinth during the week, with twenty- Those who visited during the walking rather than being concerned
– particularly prayer, pilgrimage and impossible by age and infirmity or by people and children, separately or two people walking the labyrinth at week came with a similar, focused about directions.
contemplation. The box opposite political circumstances. together. It is a good idea to give the a special Sunday evening service and outlook, although their experience There is no right or wrong way to
gives a brief background history of Both longer pilgrimages, and symbolic participants an information sheet to a further forty-one visiting during was of smaller numbers, outside walk a labyrinth and you are free to do
the labyrinth in Christian worship. journeys through a labyrinth, fell read, to prepare their thoughts, before the week following. I placed ‘activity a liturgical context, in silence and whatever you wish during your walk.
In medieval Europe, labyrinths were out of favour after the Reformation, they begin their walk. stations’ within the labyrinth and gave (generally) in daylight. Nevertheless, However, it is usually best to decide on
installed in many church buildings, particularly in Protestant countries such The labyrinth may contain ‘stations’ out information sheets to users on many people spoke of experiencing the focus for your walk before going to
the most notable being the extant, as England. But this changed in the late or specific activities to be completed their arrival (see the box on the right). ‘a special time in a special place’. the entrance. Don’t worry at all what
early thirteenth century, labyrinth at twentieth century, largely through the during the walk, or it may be left empty The latter told them that, traditionally, The fact that visitors were requested others are doing in the labyrinth – try
Chartres Cathedral in northern France. vision of the Reverend Lauren Artress, so that the whole focus is on the practice people have used the labyrinth as a way to take off their shoes (actually, to to concentrate on your own ‘journey’.
The installation of labyrinths in the one of the Canons of Grace Cathedral of walking, although participants of releasing burdens on the way in, and protect the fabric) instilled in many For a lot of people, the rhythm of
floors of cathedrals accommodated in San Francisco, United States. should always be encouraged to pause then finding union with God on the way a feeling of entering holy ground. walking helps to focus the mind on
out, and that they might like to do this Some specifically chose to attend at spiritual issues, to pray, to find peace,
Notes and references too, focusing on a problem or difficult a time when they would be able to to solve problems, to answer questions
1
Kilde, J.H. Sacred Power, Sacred Space: An Introduction to Christian Architecture and Worship. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2008.
2
Welch, S. Walking the Labyrinth: A Spiritual and Practical Guide. Norwich: Canterbury Press, 2010. situation that they wanted to bring to experience the space alone; others or to heal relationships. We may leave
3
Kern, H. Through the Labyrinth: Designs and Meanings over 5000 Years. Munich: Prestel, 2000. God. I suggested that they should pause came in home groups and treated the the labyrinth as changed people.
4
At Saffron Walden, Wing and Hilton in Eastern England, Alkborough in North Lincolnshire, Somerton and Boughton Green in the South Midlands, and Breamore
and St Catherine’s Hill in Hampshire. again at the exit to thank God for what experience as a shared occasion. One Alternatively, there may appear to be
5
Artress, L. Walking a Sacred Path: Rediscovering the Labyrinth as a Spiritual Practice. New York: Berkley, 1995, 2nd ed. 2006. they had learnt during their walk. group leader was anxious to ‘police’ little impact, so don’t worry if that is
6
St Luke’s Gamston and West Bridgford, Nottingham. I would like to acknowledge the help of Susan Bell with the project, particularly in the loan of the labyrinth.
Together, we later ran a session on labyrinth walking with students at St John’s College using the same portable labyrinth and similar instructional materials. At the Sunday evening service there the situation of people not following the case for you.
12 13
the route! Another group contained space that is celebrating the fact that we know is that when he finished his
several elderly people who had to be God is not the object of our knowledge poetry, as the splash took place, he said
physically assisted during the walk but the cause of our wonder? To walk ‘if you have the ears to hear, then hear’.
and who obviously really appreciated in with expectations of the one and Might that be, ‘have you tuned in right?’
the experience. Everyone treated the to get the other might mean you miss This is not the news, you see. This is the
‘Soul language’ –
space with great reverence. A large something very important. It might Good News – and language has gone
number of the users talked about their even mean you think the whole thing into a state of emergency to help us get
walk as a ‘journey’ or pilgrimage and implausible. Category errors like this to the kingdom.
referred to its spiritual counterpart, the cause a lot of frustration in the brain I believe that God has given everyone
journey through life. In a way this was
not surprising, as the Sunday evening
service had been advertised under the
the spirituality of words and heart.
Certainly in a Christian service you
have walked into poetry in motion. You
a great gift. It is your being. And we are
all asked to give a gift back in return –
our becoming, who we become in our
title ‘Journeying with God’, but there As preachers, Readers must be aware of the power of stand and sing a poem, called a hymn lives. Put it another way: God loves
was no apparent difference in this or worship song, then you’ll hear an us just as we are but God loves us so
respect between those who had come language, the importance of the phrases they choose. Mark ancient poem called a psalm. Prayers much God doesn’t want us to stay like
to that service and those who attended Oakley encourages us to embrace the poetic. full of images, metaphors, similes that. Therefore we need a language
during the week. One person said, ‘I come along. I’ll mention scripture in our faith that is not so much about
found that moving through different in a moment. If you’re a high church information as about formation, a
T
directions in the progression of the cleric or a charismatic singer, even the language that helps us become. We
walk was useful – looking at my focus he word ‘poetry’ is scary for a understanding, shifting sands, unsettling perplexing but you can amble across the gestures become poetic, arms go into need, and the teachings of Jesus are this,
in different ways and the different lot of people. It can be loaded hard stones. landscape, taking time, being curious. the vocative as a language is sought to a language that doesn’t set out to answer
aspects of God, and the way He is with memories of boredom or We are living at a time when language Like all foreign countries poetry has praise the mystery and reality of God. all our questions so much as questions
around us all at every twist and turn humiliation at school as we tried to is being abused. It is being hijacked for customs and rules – but you don’t have When human beings fall in love we look all our answers. We need a language
of our lives.’ Many people commented understand or recite a poem. Sometimes rhetoric, as ammunition, for deceit and to remember them all to make the trip for a language that will express what we that enlarges the heart, the mind, the
on a positive emotional experience of we try to come back to poetry in later division. For a person of faith, language worthwhile. You need motivation to feel and we will go to every length to humane and our understanding of the
some kind – joy and encouragement, life but don’t know quite where to start matters. Whereas we can get very book your tickets and patience once describe the loved one; we all become divine. When we approach God, it is
a sense of freedom, or release from and when we do it all still seems pretty obsessed in our faith communities about the journey’s started. The point is, that poets as we scurry around trying to do time to stop being prosaic.
problems and concerns. incomprehensible, too much work for being relevant, it seems to me that what no matter how much you prepared for justice to the reality of who we are in Poems are potentially transformative
I tried to encourage non-church too little result. There’s another word we should be striving for is not relevance your trip to Belgium you know that at relation to them. We take language to and are used in such a variety of
members to try out the labyrinth to describe a possible result of all this: so much as resonance. Thinking some point you’re going to be confused the gym to do a workout and get fitter places and times: from work to help
while using the church hall for ‘metrophobia’ – the fear of poetry. through the difference between the and the thing about going on holiday for purpose. Poetry is the language of rehabilitate young offenders to giving
other purposes (for example, the I remember the day I realised my two is an important task. Language is to is that to be confused is part of the fun, the lover, the language of love. And that, voice to unspoken grief at a funeral;
playgroup, the senior citizens club and life needed more poetry in it. I went be truthful. part of the exhilaration of the break. simply, is why it must be the language of from helping children see their world
the Guides). Unfortunately, despite to hear the poet Wendy Cope and But let’s just go back to the problem Poetry is the same. You will be confused. the Church, the language of faith. When better to stirring up adults to protest
my encouragement and although towards the end she read a short poem of poetry for a moment because by This is language but not as we know it. you’re in love, truth is far too important for change. Poems push our boundaries
expressing inquisitive interest, they called ‘Names’. It is written about now you might be feeling, ‘OK I can see And you are allowed not to always like to be literalistic with. For this reason, of awareness. The meanings of a poem
clearly did not feel the labyrinth, laid her grandmother. I listened to the where this is going but I’m still stuck on it! Here is the spiritual point: difficulty fundamentalism is to Christianity what are always ahead of us, naughtily
out in the formal church part of the poem’s few simple lines that capture the poetry thing. I don’t get it.’ If that’s can be important in a life. Look back paint-by-numbers is to art. calling back ‘catch us if you can’ – and
building, was for them. This made me the fragile life cycle of a woman that how you’re thinking then let me take at your life so far and you probably can The Christian gospels are not we follow because it feels we are being
realise that, while labyrinths may be you feel tender towards after just 107 you for a trip that I mention in the book see that the most important times were obviously poetic until you study them taken somewhere new.
used by churches for both devotional words, and I found I was crying. All – a trip to Belgium. the difficult ones. As in life, so in the closely. You then see the artistry of each The mystic Meister Ekhart once said
and evangelistic purposes (as Welch you preachers out there, remember we Consider the way you’d be thinking language of life. The greatness of a of the four writers, or evangelists, as well that God is like a person hiding in the
says), it may not be possible to use can do extraordinary things with just if you were planning a trip to Belgium. poem doesn’t lie in our understanding as the persistently figurative preaching dark who occasionally coughs and
the same labyrinth for more than one 107 words. We don’t always need 107 You might try to learn a few useful of it but in its understanding of us. It of Jesus himself. Jesus, as it were, often gives himself away. Poetry is where I
purpose at a time. minutes or points. phrases, or read a bit of Belgian history, arrives in our intellect by way of the took people on that trip to Belgium, hear the cough, where my own snoring
Not all poems make you cry of course, or thumb through a guidebook in search heart, as R S Thomas said, just like a leaving people often wondering, it says through life is interrupted, where the
Dr Jacqueline Tivers is but what became clear to me that day of museums, restaurants, flea markets. sermon should. in the gospel, what on earth he meant splash makes me jump and freshens and
a Reader at St. Luke’s is that when we talk about poetry we The important thing is that you’d know If I said to you now, ‘Here is the and yet being intrigued and drawn by puzzles, just like those words ‘follow me’
Church, Gamston and are talking about a ‘soul language’, a when you get to Belgium you were going News’, you would probably sit up and his parabolic language that hovered still do. Writing The Splash of Words was
Bridgford in the Diocese of way of crafting words that distils our to be confused, or at least occasionally expect to hear the facts of the day, rather than came in to land. He wouldn’t my way of trying to celebrate the truth
Southwell & Nottingham experience into what feels like a purer at a loss, and you’d accept that confusion events that have occurred and some have scored that high in a seminary that I have come to believe very deeply:
and a volunteer Chaplain truth. This is, I think, what the Irish poet as part of the experience. What you commentary on them. But if instead preaching class because there were that God is in this world as poetry is in
at Southwell Minster. Michael Longley meant when he was wouldn’t do though is become paralysed I said ‘Once upon a time’ you would rarely three easy points in summary. the poem.
asked ‘where does all your poetry come with anxiety because you don’t speak probably be equally expectant for truth Storytelling reveals meaning without
from?’ and he replied, ‘if I knew where fluent Flemish, or convinced that to but you’d tune in differently and be defining it. Jesus was poetic. The Good Mark Oakley is Canon
To find out more poems came from, I’d go and live there’. really get Belgium you need to know ready to receive it in a different form, Samaritan never existed. Nor did the Chancellor of St
I called my recent book The Splash of all its by-laws, or understand why their story, where meaning is communicated Prodigal Son. There was no Lazarus at Paul’s Cathedral
Artress, L. Walking a Sacred Path:
Words because a good poem is like the most famous public statue is that of a without summarising it. Now, when the gate or a woman who lost a coin. and his book
Rediscovering the Labyrinth as a
pebble thrown into a lake. There is the boy peeing in a fountain. You’d probably you walk into a church or a place of Jesus made them up. He was a verbal The Splash
Spiritual Practice. New York: Berkley,
immediate splash (like the effect in me say, ‘that’s what they’re like here and if worship how do you tune in your ears? artist. He used similes, metaphors and of Words:
2nd ed., 2006.
when I had finished hearing ‘Names’), I stay around long enough maybe it’ll Have you got your newsroom ears on? parabolic riddles all the time. His stories Believing in Poetry is published
Welch, S. A Labyrinth Prayer Handbook. and then the poem begins its work, the make sense’. Have you walked into a Google temple were not designed to make easy sense, by Canterbury Press. You can
Norwich: Canterbury Press, 2014 ripples set out towards your shore and Poetry is best thought of in the same of facts on tap? Or, have you walked they were designed to make you, to see a review of the book in the
they begin to lap over the shores of your way. The art form is enormous and into a poem? Have you walked into a re-make you, via some difficulty. What Spring 2017 issue of The Reader.
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