Island Life Magazine Ltd December 2007/January 2008 | Page 32
life
FEATURE
Benedict from the 6th century. It also
safeguards the peace desired by visitors.
For those who are interested in the
medieval ruins, they are open to the
public during Heritage Open Days in
September of each year, when a number of
properties on the Island that are usually
closed to the public open their doors.
32
The abbey has had a colourful history.
The Island was vulnerable to attack
from the sea and from piracy, and war
with France during the 14th century
brought great suffering to the community
at Quarr. In 1340 a wall, sea gate and
portcullis were constructed to fortify
the abbey against attacks. The ruins
of these defences are still visible.
Life at the abbey today is similar to
that lived by the medieval monks. The
community rises at 5 AM, and gathers
together several times during the day in
the church to pray the psalms, listen to the
Word of God and celebrate Holy Mass.
In addition to their spiritual observances,
the monks engage in a number of other
activities. The tradition of bee-keeping
has been resurrected after an interval
of 50 years. Bees are kept by many
communities of monks for the production
of honey and wax candles. In monastic
writings the bee is a symbol of work,
creative activity, co-operation, obedience,
orderliness and diligence. Therefore
a hive can be seen as a metaphor for
the monastic approach to life.
Quarr Abbey also features a pottery,
and work with clay is seen as a means
of prayer, a creative response to the
Creator. The potter-monk understands
the spiritual significance of the fact
that out of humble materials, things of
beauty can be shaped. A range of work
is available at the Abbey shop. Orders
and commissions, especially for special
occasions, are welcome. Bookbinding
is also practiced at the abbey and the
restoration of old books is a speciality.
Some work is taken on a commercial basis.
Quarr features in a number of walks held
during the annual Isle of Wight Walking
Festival (see page 52). A gentle walk from
Binstead to Fishbourne through country
lanes makes its way past the abbey.
The church at Quarr Abbey is open every
day throughout the year for all services;
a teashop serves light refreshments.
The Abbey shop sells books, cards,
religious items, CDs, crafts and pottery.
For further details please call 882420.
For more information on the history of
Quarr Abbey go to the official website
at http://www.quarrabbey.co.uk.
PHOTOS: Left: Exterior view
Bottom: Table of Fellowship
Island Life - www.isleofwight.net