A reflection by Kay Howells on the recent Ministry Area Advent Quiet Day at Ty Mawr:
Ty Mawr convent is a special, spiritual place, a “thin place”, where heaven and earth feel closer.
The NMMA Advent Quiet Day was held at Ty Mawr on Saturday 6th December. The weather was damp and grey yet opening the door into Michaelgarth, the house booked for our day’s retreat, the atmosphere was cosy and welcoming.
The day was run by Canon Rev’d Jeremy Harris. After coffee and introductions we had morning prayer led by Rev’d David Roberts. For our first session we were initially given a series of photographs depicting the theme of the day, “Watching and Waiting”. During the day’s three sessions we heard bible readings, poetry and presentations on 3 of the characters in the Annunciation – Zacchariah, Mary and Elizabeth. We then had a period of time for personal reflection and consideration of some points raised by Jeremy; we were free to use any part of the house or grounds. I made my way to one of the tiny chapels near the house. It was very cold but proved to be a great space for reflection.
Just before mid-day we walked down to the chapel in the convent for the daily Eucharist service. A spiritual experience, shared by the nuns, other staff and visitors.
Our afternoon session concluded with evening prayer and the day closed around 3.00pm.
For me, the opportunity to have some quiet time out of the mad rush of Christmas preparations was so valuable. The special setting of Ty Mawr, the guidance of Jeremy and the value of having set aside the time, gave me the space for reflection on the year and it’s events and to focus on all the love and support I have in my life. An altogether very special day.
Kay Howells
MA Minute Secretary and Parishioner of St Michael, Llanvihangel Crucorney