Abbot's Kitched - Glastonbury - 2024

Glastonbury Abbey: Abbot’s Kitchen – St Joseph’s Well! (30.7.2024)

Today, an ad hoc “Wishing Well” has developed in one of the corners of the room. This was probably a drain or perhaps some type of cooker – but in modern times visitors have taken to dropping coins down through the covering grill – and making heartfelt requests in the form of prayers and good wishes. Our daughters asked for good health to be bestowed upon Nana (Diane Wyles), Granddad (Peter Wyles) and Charlotte (my younger sister)! The currency observed spans the globe – which demonstrates the universal appeal that Glastonbury holds. This is not necessarily “religious” (although religion is important for many) – but rathe “spiritual” in nature – the latter category being far more inclusive and all-embracing!

King Arthur May Well Have Been a Historical Personage!

Glastonbury Abbey – King Arthur’s Grave! (29.7.2024)

The Celtic Church (from Egypt) was probably in Britain from the 2nd century CE onwards – with it being destroyed by the incoming Roman Catholic Church by the 11th century CE. Its monastic nature encouraged not only cloistered monks who lived in draughty stone cells – but also Hermits who lived in natural caves or various other meditation cells. Celtic Christianity did not persecute – but encouraged and accommodated the Pagan beliefs of indigenous people. There was a mutual respect between both groups of believers and this explains why leaders like King Arthur would strive to protect the Church – and the Church to honour him in death. This type of Asiatic respect does not require a slavish attachment to belief to be functional. Freedom of belief equates to respect for difference. There are many theories dating King Arthur from the 6th, 7th and 8th centuries, etc, which include many geographical areas associated with his life and death. We favour Tintagel in Cornwall – a place we have visited many times. King Arthur was a wise man, a compassionate man, and a great warrior!