That
evening we began our prayers outside the Gatehouse
and then walked in
silence across the Piazza
to the chapel. The Friars had gone into the Choir Chapel
wearing their white cloaks for Compline and as we neared
the chapel they erupted out of the door to go to the
Shrine to sing the Hymn to the Blessed Virgin Mary.
As they passed us they bade us ‘Good night.’
On
Sunday morning Canon Alan Vousden (Vicar of St. Margaret,
Rainham) and Tricia
came to join the party
for Mass. He preached about his life ministry in Rochester
Diocese. Afterwards we gathered for a group photo on
the lawn opposite the Pilgrims’ Hall.
Lunch, as all the meals was a pleasant event before
returning home.
The Friars is very peaceful and has a wonderful atmosphere
in spite of the crowds of people that come each day.
Early
morning strollers benefited from the quietness and
enjoyed watching the sun burn off the early mist.
The geese were expert guards, the ducks entertained
anyone who cared to watch them, but all the birds were
at the front of the queue when Br. Tom came to the
pond with food.
Rabbits and foxes came out once darkness fell and
during the day squirrels played chase in any space
that was available.
Pilgrims, Brothers
and staff all interacted. Children played happily in
the shade, families brought picnics,
little groups wandered or sat under the trees |
