Snow on the Hedges

Snow falling thickly Thursday afternoon.

Friday Morning. Looking from my window.

Dear Friends and Family,

There is snow on the hedges! Such joyful words were whispered among the Catholics of the village and surrounding areas many centuries ago, when St. Cuthbert Mayne was in town. For in the late 1500's it was illegal to celebrate the Holy Mass--a crime punishable by death. So Fr. Cuthbert had to pretend to be the Arundell's steward, to make the rounds of their properties. When he was in town, the ladies would hang their washing out to dry on the hedges--so that all who saw it would know that the priest was in town and that an early morning candle-lit Mass, and the chance for Confession, would be available. "Snow on the hedges!" was the joyful cry.

Well, this Thursday afternoon, all of a sudden, several inches of snow fell from heaven to blanket the hedges and the rest of the monastery and village in white. It was a beautiful site to see. I had planned to write you more about the snow but my keyboard is freezing up and it is becoming increasingly difficult to type, so I had best sign off!

Tomorrow afternoon I will fly to France for another 5 days of studies--this time focussing on angels and demons. I will let you know next week how it was.

May Jesus and Mary watch over you and guide you.

In Cordibus Iesu et Mariae,
Fr. Pillari