Among first memories: a 3 year old reminding us that "my mother shakes the mats every day"; another calling "Auntie ther's an 'orsey at the winder" as Molly the donkey looked in; children leaping ecstatically into the field of buttercups and bringing in armfuls; the high jinks mums of large families got up to on their first holiday for years; the two old gentlemen who lived on 10% a week and paid half on rent.
A test of faith came when two original partners decided to leave the Farmhouse and Cottage and sell them. So we had to raise funds quickly with the help of my Father, our own slender resources and a friendly Bank Manager!
The link with St. Hilda's in Camberwell, described by Joan, seemed meant, and strengthened our resolve. 'A country lung' they first called it. So it became in a particular sense for Emma, sent back to her poor home, to die of T.B. An outside hut was provided and the country air gave her two years of happiness. She inspired us all with her gallant spirit and cheerfulness.
We enjoyed frequent visitors. Brother Douglas, founder of the Anglican Franciscans, for a few quiet nights away from the London bombing, planting fruit trees, with kids tagging along, banging away on the old piano to the delight of all, settling a blazing family row, to the surprise of all, by going off quietly into the chapel!
Then Nicholas Zernov of the Fellowship of St. Alban and St. Sergius, gathering us for a memorable Orthodox Liturgy in the Chapel. Mother Teresa, another fine person and good friend, who was to create close links between us and her Franciscan Sisterhood in Devon. |
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We owed much to Richard Parsons, Bishop of Southwark, who, as our `Visitor' came at regular intervals and kept our feet on sane and wise paths! Bishop George Bell, amidst his many tasks of national and world importance, was a lovely Father in God to us, supporting and guiding. He dedicated the Barn Chapel and houses. Because we loved him, Joan and I didn't mind any more being drawn closely into the Anglican fold, and we could remember that our promises at admission required unconditional service "within the universal Church of Christ".
Bea's brother-in-law, Canon John Townroe, recalls that on his visits in the early days he was struck by the fact that practical decisions at family meetings always sought a basis in Bible teaching and Christian doctrine. Current works like Thornton's The Common Life in the Body of Christ, Ramsey's The Gospel and the Catholic Church, and Herbert's Liturgy and Society were proving very influential and, under George Gibson's leadership, gave direction and inspiration to the whole venture.
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