The YORKSHIRE HERMIT MONKS - A visit to MOUNT GRACE PRIORY

[@stepps511]

The profusion of monasteries during the Middle Ages is astounding today. Once again, I mourn the destructiveness of the Reformation. Still, it is wonderful to see these ruins and imagine the lives of the monks who inhabited the thriving abbeys and monasteries. Thank you so very much, Allan.

[@smontone]

I wonder what the world would be like if there hadn’t been a reformation.

[@theoldar]

They produced nothing, and consumed much. It was inevitable that their time would end.

[@ozelhassan8576]

I'm not Catholic, but I too mourn the destruction of the Monasteries. They were hubs of learning, and I especially grieve for the buildings themselves. The recklessness of people throughout history, who have demolished castles, stately homes and religious buildings, deeply upsets me. Even today, buildings constructed just 40 years ago are being destroyed. As a child, I often visited the Birmingham Central Library, where I spent many happy hours reading. The library, built in 1974 in the Brutalist style, was entirely made of concrete (I think). I loved it; it shaped my life. Its demolition, in my opinion, was a crime. I mourn that library deeply, and now I can only visit it in my memories.

[@giovanniserafino1731]

@@theoldar”They produced nothing?”Many monastic communities produced great works of art and highly decorated manuscripts still available today. During the “dark ages” monks preserved western civilization in keeping the knowledge of the past alive. Monasteries were often centers of learning and education. . They contributed to the economy by providing work for the local community. They took care of the poor and sick. Unfortunately, your comment reflects an extreme ignorance of monastic life.

[@SugarWildflower-si4ox]

@@giovanniserafino1731it is ignorance …

[@allanbarton]

Apologies for the hum of my fan in this recording - it was a sweltering day when I recorded this!!!!

[@romo9122]

Must've been past Friday to Sunday. That you've done any work/editing during that infernal heat is praise worthy.

[@allanbarton]

@@romo9122 yes it was, grateful it’s cooled down somewhat.

[@judycater2832]

I thought it was rain at first. 😂 No problem. Great video. ❤

[@timhazeltine3256]

No worries. Your fan evoked a babbling brook

[@kimfleury]

I honestly thought it was a babbling brook until I read this! It was fitting, I think.

[@anselman3156]

Very interesting. I was surprised at how spacious the cell was.

[@accademiaoscura7870]

I just love Carthusian monasteries! The individual mini houses with attached gardens, and oratories seem wonderful. I can envision living in such a place. Have you ever watched the film “into great silence?” It’s a fantastic documentary about life in la Grande Chartreuse

[@allanbarton]

I have indeed, an amazing documentary. Yes, there is an aspect of idyll in the vision, isn’t there.

[@lornaclayton2697]

I live a few miles from Mount Grace Priory, and it is such a beautiful and peaceful setting. I have visited it several times and will continue to do so.

[@MarkGeraghty]

This video (and Allan's voice) gives a real sense of peace and. stillness. A beautiful place.

[@ElizabethHopkinson]

I will go and visit Mount Grace some time - I’m in Yorkshire. As part of a new-monastic community (dispersed) it’s fascinating to see and hear in depth about new monastic movements of the past, and folk’s attempts to recreate in their own times the monasticism of the Desert Elders and Celtic saints.

[@allanbarton]

It is well worth the effort. Get there at 10am when they first open and you will likely that he monastic ruins to your self. It is a wonderful place.

[@user-rn5ks8sf5x]

A marvelous place. I can appreciate the attraction of such a life even today.

[@AmynAL]

Loved the tour! So interesting. Thanks Alan

[@wandapease-gi8yo]

The “cells” of this Priory appear to have been exceptionally comfortable compared to other places. This would encourage many activities such as weaving or bookbinding.

[@mackdog3270]

It's beautiful, and to me, strange. I live in a desert, a real one, and all the green would take some getting used to. I moved to a big city for college, and it took about a month before I was comfortable seeing being around that much vegetation. The first week was surreal.

[@minui8758]

I have never been more moved by a monastic site. The commitment is just astonishing. I half wanted to join the modern Carthusian house at Parkminster afterwards. Extraordinary, extraordinary place

[@Kevin-mx1vi]

I'm absolutely delighted that you've visited Mount Grace Priory - it's a favourite spot that my wife and I visit whenever we're in the area because of its peacefulness and beauty. The restored monk's cell gives you a really good idea of how they must have lived. Not seen in the video is the guest house which later served as a private residence and which contains some wonderful William Morris Arts and Crafts decor and furniture, or the fantastic 13 acres of gardens to the front of it, which are worth seeing in their own right. There's also a tea room ! 😊

[@lysem4392]

Alan is a medievalist, but I hope he will do a video on that part of Mount Grace.

[@rhiannonpoole6019]

Thanks for the tour of this wonderful place. You conveyed the peace and holy atmosphere so well.

[@roaringgirl7079]

Please do a deep dive into anchorites and anchoresses!

[@davidniedjaco9869]

I concur..I've always been fascinated by the devotion and faith with which the anchorite had..to leave the world and be confined inside of a small cell for the rest of one's life..and sometimes death, as many were buried in their cells..some were literally sealed inside, walled in, with the Bishop's seal stamped on then outside..but the sacrifice that the anchorite commits to for the good of the community and world by spending their life in prayer for them is awe inspiring..plus there is the macabre (I would say holy) practice of digging your own grave in the cell and taking a handful of that dirt in reminder of one's mortality and the fact many times other anchorites were buried in there already..so since Allan likes the macabre (as do I), this would seem right up his alley..also the fact that England had to most anchorites than any other place in Christendom..the remainders of which are still there (at least some..and more than any other place)..such as the most famous Julian of Norwich..to be quite honest, after writing this, I really astonished Allan has done a video on anchorites..it seems to be right up his alley..and all the resources are all within England..maybe he has though..to by chagrin I'm not that knowledgeable in what vids he has and has not made..anyways I've rambled on WAY TO MUCH as is what usually happens..my apologies..great suggestion though..don't know why I've never thought of it..hope he takes your suggestion up and makes then anchorite video..God bless Mary protect +++

[@annettewillis2797]

How peaceful Mount Grace priory is, even to this day. I wonder what would have happened to the Carthusians if they had not been subject to the ravages of the Reformation. The reconstructed cells are delightful and a real insight into the life and death of the monks. Wonderful. Thanks for sharing your visit Allan.

[@allanbarton]

It was truly dreadful what happened to the Carthusians at the Reformation. Torn from their seclusion and executed at Tyburn.

[@annettewillis2797]

@@allanbarton It is shocking what happened to the Carthusian monks and the Carmelite nuns, among many others. How threatened the 'reformers' were that they had to murder people whose lives were lived in silent contemplation of the Divine.

[@pixbychris3182]

Lovely place I remember visiting several years ago. A certain peace was evident there.

[@marthavanbeek-putters]

Where monks lived it is always so peaceful and quiet. You will relax there. At least I think that. Again a wonderful video, thank you so much Martha

[@moiragoldsmith7052]

Such a wonderful place! I took my children 20 odd years ago ...time for another visit methinks.😁 Thank you.

[@robbicu]

Thank you so much for great research and beautiful film footage!

[@lianefehrle9921]

They lived to be with their own. What a way of life these ones had. I think a bit easier than others.

[@Marjorie-yt7pb]

Those rooms seem luxurious to me❤🎉

[@frippp66]

it is better than many people's accommodation today

[@williamevans9426]

I thought they looked quite comfortable too, 'til I remembered that each monk would never leave his own lonely small world and would see another human being only for services and a meal once a week.

[@Marjorie-yt7pb]

@@frippp66 yes!!🙏.... i'd move in tomorrow. But wintertime.....that fireplace needs some logs🤗

[@Marjorie-yt7pb]

@@williamevans9426 the chartreux cat breed , would often be a companion ....😁

[@lysem4392]

​@@Marjorie-yt7pbA beautiful little garden and a cat: two of the foundation stones of a happy life.

[@NinaHansen2008]

Thank you, Dr. Barton.

[@TerryC69]

Hi Allan! Mount Grace seems very pleasant and an ideal place for contemplation and prayer.

[@chanthamala8]

That Disillusion of the Monasteries really did a number all over the UK. Its sad to imagine what many more buildings that could've been preserved and the history that goes with it. I know lots of building materials where repurposed into great cities and towns, but still...

[@311girl]

Gorgeous place.

[@Ulysses37]

We visited here two years ago and it was a truly wonderful site.

[@ByronAdams-j7t]

A particularly beautiful video.

[@radio-ged4626]

I remember visiting Mount Grace Priory on my 2010 "Pilgrimage" across England (AKA The Coast to Coast Walk). Mt. Grace was closed at the time, I re-visited 8 years later. What a wonderful place, together with Richmond Castle, Shap Abbey and the various other historic spots along the way this was a very memorable part of the C2C walk.

[@CopenhagenDreaming]

This is perhaps the best "visit to"-video you've made. Really well done, and informative as well.

[@allanbarton]

Thank you.

[@marierowe5969]

Loved this .x

[@allanbarton]

Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for watching!

[@Marjorie-yt7pb]

Very very imteresting 🎉! As always😊

[@educanassa100]

Amazing vídeo, Allan

[@davidd6171]

Wonderful video Allan!! Thanks again!

[@deniseatkins9407]

Wow that is a stunning place

[@DeanWerx]

Couldn’t help but hear the sound at the beginning of your video. That is quite a good flow you have going. That is the sign of a healthy prostate. Keep up the good work. I try and watch every video of yours. I always feel I am watching history being recorded for posterity. So much of your overlooked history would never be seen by someone like myself in America. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to learn.

[@dereks1264]

An excellent video and, I must say, I wouldn't mind being a choir monk, even, today in such a cell.

[@jilltagmorris]

Fabulous as always. And I love a fan! ❤😊🎉❤😊

[@ThomasEhnert]

The Carthusians actually pray three offices in common, because they sing Matins at midnight with Lauds immediately following, before returning to bed. Then they sing Vespers in common, as you mention. All this in addition to the Conventual Mass. There’s a wonderful book called, “An Infinity of Little Hours” that explores the Carthusian life before the Council. It was and is absolutely not an easy life, to rely on one’s own resources at almost all hours of the day for the rest of one’s life, and even though common time is spent together, it is not spent in mutually supportive friendship outside of the weekly long walk.

[@giovanniserafino1731]

@@ThomasEhnert Thank you for the information and book reference. I was wondering if the Carthusians still celebrate private Mass in their cells, or has the Conventional Mass become “ concelebrated” as in the case of most monastic communities today?

[@ThomasEhnert]

@@giovanniserafino1731 They still say private Masses as part of their solitary life. I believe on greater Solemnities, I’ve seen pictures where they appear to concelebrate because it looks like the choir monks are wearing stoles. Carthusian monasteries are great resources for having Masses said for private intentions. It helps them and it helps us. Their websites will give some guidance on how to arrange for the Masses.

[@giovanniserafino1731]

@@ThomasEhnert Thank you very much for this information. I am sure that their monasteries are “power houses “ of prayer, and precisely what we need in today’s world! Again, thank you very much!

[@almostthere3733]

Thanks Allan ... I enjoyed this review of Mount Grace. Maybe you can also review Marrick Priory not too far away. I believe it has connections to Robert Aske, the Pilgrimage of Grace, etc. Thanks.

[@smontone]

It looks like such a peaceful place. I feel like living near ruins would be a dream. There is nothing that old in the US sadly.

[@Ggdivhjkjl]

The Carthusians still exist and I'm fairly sure they have a charterhouse in the USA.

[@simongee8928]

Interesting that the cells at Mount Grace were much larger and spacious that I'd previously assumed. I'd thought that each monk would have had one room utilised for his various needs, not what could be described as a small house much larger and better appointed than most ordinary folk could only dream of. 😮

[@oldhippy1947]

Another very interesting video. I always enjoy your tours. You've got me interested in the Reformation, and I've been working my way through a couple of books. The Stripping of the Altars and Going to Church in Medieval England.

[@allanbarton]

How fantastic, both are such interesting books. I remember reading The Stripping of the Altars when it first came out. Can I recommend another book by Eamonn Duffy 'The Voices of Morebath' it focuses on just one English parishes experience of the Reformation, through the eyes of the parish priest who served there from 1530 to 1570.

[@oldhippy1947]

@@allanbarton Thank you. Voices of Morebeth is now on my wishlist. Also, Eamon Duffy has a number of other interesting sounding books for my Kindle. While I'm not Catholic or even particular religious, I'm finding these books very interesting.

[@gordoncarter7344]

@@allanbarton Greetings from Adelaide,South Australia Allan. THANK you for your videos they are excellent,as are all Dr.Eamonn Duffy's books. I found 'Voices of Morebath' particularly moving,as it showed powerfully what happened in one parish over the whole term of the English 'Reformation'. Gordon Carter.

[@lysem4392]

​@@allanbartonIf I may make a suggestion, Dr. Barton: You may want to make a video about books you particularly recommend for an interested but non-expert readership. I for one would watch - and take notes!

[@allanbarton]

@@lysem4392 that’s a great idea.

[@carolescutt2257]

Dr Allan you come up medieval trumps as always many thanks 😂

[@PLuMUK54]

Had I lived in the Medieval period, I would have wanted to be a Carthusian. The lifestyle would have been ideal for me. Being autistic, I spend much of my time alone.

[@lysem4392]

Thank you for your comment, which answers something that was running through my mind as I was watching the video: the notion of autism did not exist at the time, but surely autism itself did. I kept thinking that the carthusian lifestyle would appeal to people with autism or social phobia and suit them entirely. I assume this would also apply to the lay brothers, though they might feel a bit more at ease in the company of others.

[@TyrSkyFatherOfTheGods]

Perfectly wonderful, as always! Once upon a time, when I was young and foolish, I fantasized about being a Carthusian monk. It would have been a disaster!

[@allanbarton]

Me too, I think people look at this place and think it’s easy. Such isolation isn’t easy, many people have been driven mad by it.

[@mikesummers-smith4091]

The place seems to have much changed since I visited as a schoolboy around 1960. I remember the running water, but not the reconstructions.

[@anacasanova7350]

Una nación muy pacifica, Inglaterra 😂 el sumun de la misericordia y el pacifismo.😊 Es increíble la capacidad de esos monjes católicos y " arcaicos" de vivir en unas condiciones higienico sanitarias equivalentes al s. XXI. agua corriente en cañerías, calefacción En el salón, zona de estudio, habitación, cristales en las ventanas, estudio , mucho orden , zona de paseo en el exterior y trabajo manual. Un gran modelo a seguir, hoy. Y fueron perseguidos por ello!

[@simongee8928]

When such monasteries were sited, they must have had to take into account what facilities were nearby; fresh water, supply of wood, availability of food sources and land suitable for growing foodstuffs. I infer that this must have been a primary consideration when looking for a place to build - ?

[@robnewman6101]

Wow.

[@allanbarton]

Glad you appreciated this!

[@Zizumia]

You know, becoming a hermit monk, shut off from the rest of the world seems like a good idea these days

[@angryherbalgerbil]

Many are thinking the same! The old ways even before the monasteries were far more true to how we were meant to live. The Celts, Picts, Gauls, and Bretons are far truer to our roots than any Roman Catholic erosion. Some of those roots still exist in the monastic ways. We are meant to live in harmony with nature. What we are today is an abomination.

[@SN-sz7kw]

Introvert heaven. Seriously.

[@baylorsailor]

Do people still drink from the spring?

[@wandapease-gi8yo]

What of visitors and travelers on these largely uninhabited areas?

[@allanbarton]

They did have a guest house, but they didn’t major of hospitality like the Benedictines and Cistercians.

[@elizabeththomas3662]

the night office of Mattins?

[@allanbarton]

Indeed.

[@kellyadams3078]

What is a tipple? Is it like a nightcap or toddy?

[@allanbarton]

A small alcoholic drink.

[@kellyadams3078]

@@allanbarton thanks

[@joannecaligiuri2565]

Do you do any day tours in the UK?

[@allanbarton]

Watch this space, I am looking to offer some in due course and was thinking of starting with Yorkshire Abbeys.

[@lysem4392]

​@@allanbartonHow I would love to join! But Canada is far away.

[@peterkrauss6962]

I cannot imagine a Catholic England. Although it truly was.

[@franc9111]

You say that they only drank water, but at Mass they must have taken wine from the chalice.

[@allanbarton]

Clearly that isn’t in the same category, as it is the blood of Christ, not mere liquor!

[@CaribouDataScience]

Maybe it is just me, but that looks like a pretty easy life to me.

[@CrowSkeleton]

I think I'd rather be one of those feral hermits that lived in caves, or even better one that lived on a Skellig, but if not for the "can't go into the general countryside" the life of a terraced hermit seems fairly idyllic.

[@theoldar]

Very swanky cells.

[@theoldar]

A marvelous building, where people produced nothing for their society.

[@davidniedjaco9869]

You're so ignorant!...besides the multitude of things with which the monks contributed to western civilization, even western civilization itself, the most important thing they contributed were the prayers they constantly recited in the many masses and daily offices and personal prayers that they said every day for the community, Church and world..if you're not religious you may not understand what I say..or if you do it just seems ridiculous..or if your protestant or something other than Catholic (or a Catholic with a grudge maybe) you may have a bias against Catholicism..IDK..I only know your comment and it is utterly false..in the physical sense of what they produced and more importantly the spirtual fruit they produced..which was (and still is in current orders) the most important fruit..I won't list all the achievements of monastcism for the world..I mean western civilization wouldn't be hear without monastcism..but just read..the information is everywhere and not hidden..everyone knows what you seem to be ignorant on..educate yourself..God bless Mary protect +++