I had a retreat day in Worcester before Christmas, and spent some time reading my favourite 7th Century theologian (everyone has one right?!) in the cathedral crypt which felt very fitting.

I’ve read his works in countless different places –
the library, in my office, in the woods,
on small Pacific islands. My bookcases
are interwoven with his every word.
For fifteen years he’s been my mind’s companion,
I’ve written, preached, prayed, studied, questioned, learned.
His deep reflective faith has been a lantern
Illuminating my own faith in turn
But somehow, here, today, among the ancient
prayer-soaked stones of this cathedral crypt,
beneath the hum of advent preparations,
his ancient prayer-soaked words perfectly fit.
I find myself held out of time and space
reading St Maximus in this holy place.

(c) Rich Clarkson 2026