Tag Archive: The Nevilles
THE SACRED SITES OF DEVON & CORNWALL: PART THREE
Filed under: Knight Templar, Local History, The Priory, The Priory Investigates... — Leave a comment
A day of following a trail to find a knight of renown and connecting to a Lady true. The trail took us to Tintagel, via Boscastle where words were spoken on the breeze to those whom could hear. Bloodlines and energy lines all finally making sense…
QUEST 27 CONTINUES…
Saturday had arrived and wonderfully we were still experiencing the most gorgeous of weather, made even the more enjoyable in the knowledge that it was very wet and cold back home, further north. This part of the quest, day four, took us to Clovelly, Boscastle and Tintagel.
All Saints Church Bideford, Clovelly: This pretty little secluded Norman church, not far from Clovelly village is set in a lovely wooded graveyard and on the day we arrived, bluebells and other springflowers were everywhere. It looked very magical. The church actually stands in the grounds of Clovelly Court, and is bounded by the Court's walled garden. The church was begun in the 12th century on the site of an earlier timber building. The Norman church was a simple cruciform building, consisting of a nave, chancel, and transepts. As the population of Clovelly grew, more space was needed, and in the 14th century a north aisle was added. The renovation may have been carried out by William Cary, lord of the manor, who received permission to make the church collegiate in 1387. Cary's plan was to establish a college of 6 chaplains under a Warden, but the plans were never implemented, and All Saints remained a simple parish church.
Clovelly Church set in the grounds of Clovelly Court <please click on an image to enlarge>
https://www.britainexpress.com/counties/devon/churches/clovelly.htm
Although there has been a church building at this site from 630 AD, in actual fact there has been a place of actual 'gathering' here from the early 500's AD here. Lancelot Desposyni, who is our lead reseachers x 48 Great Grandfather and of the bloodline we are tracing on our quests, was here in this area around about 530 AD.
We have discovered that the Desposyni line links onto the Fordham line, and the Fordham line links onto the Clark line (with or without an E!). The Clarks and the Fordhams have had a very long association with each other; almost since the dawn of time! References to both lines and the Nevilles too can all be seen in this very church.
See our video for more detail & references, together with explanations on the meanings of church symbolism and so much more. (2nd clip on link at 17.56)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k3Q5nmKTT14&t=227s
Some of the stunning windows that contain references to Lancelot, the Nevilles, the Fordams and to the Lamb of God (a riddle in itself) See much more in our video above…
Clovelly is a totally unspoilt fishing village in Devon that seems to be lost in time, with no cars or traffic of any kind allowed. It is privately owened and there is a rather steep charge to enter the village, almost as steep as the way down into the village itself! So thus we did not enter…
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clovelly
Bloodline connections: Lancelot Desposyni (from the Fordham line) Born 520 AD & our head researchers 48 x Great Grand Father)
Also references in All Saints Church to the Nevilles, the Clarkes and the Fordhams
Boscastle: For our quest, for Craft and research reasons, this pretty little coastal village and fishing port on the north coast of Cornwall was certainly on our agenda. But for obvious reasons there is a lot of falseness around, but if one can see past all the fake touristy consumer traps, it is a lovely little spot. In cornish the name means Kastel Boterel and it is part of the civil parish of Forrabury and Minister. Its harbour is a natural inlet protected by two stone harbour walls built in 1584 by Sir Richard Grenville and it is the only significant harbour for 20 miles along the coast. The village extends up the valleys of the River Valency and the River Jorden. Heavy rainfall on 16 August 2004 caused extensive damage to the village and made all the headlines as water raged through the village in a torrent, washing away all in its path. It was a terrifying ordeal for all those who experienced it.
The very pretty albeit touristy village of Boscastle
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boscastle
One cannot visit Boscastle without a visit to the infamous Musuem of Witchcraft which draws many folks to the area for a multitude of reasons. It is a strange place seemingly stuck firmly in an earthly time warp of a particular era and earthly perception. There were quite a lot of negative vibes there, but i was pleased to see a few items and symbols that alluded to Enochian and Templar magic and thus to 'real' Craft. It is difficult to know just how much of these 'histories' of old witchcraft and folk magic are actually real or not, or simply came into being at the time wicca was birthed and have been elaborated upon over the years since. Magic like any path should always evolve, as especially too should the practitioner and not get stuck within the realms of 'myth and magic'.
An array of interesting items from the museum, some of which show a connection to Craft and Enochian magic.
After driving from Boscastle to Tintagel, it was time for a welcomed coffee before visiting King Arthur's Hall; a site of an ancient and sacred underground spring, and thus we found ourselves in a quaint little cafe on the main street – just up our street in fact!
Tintagel: Tintagel or Trevena (Cornish: Tre war Venydh meaning village on a mountain) is a civil parish and village situated on the Atlantic coast of Cornwall in England. The modern-day village of Tintagel was always known as Trevena until the Post Office started using 'Tintagel' as the name, in the mid-19th century. Until then, 'Tintagel' had been restricted to the name of the headland and of the parish. The population of the parish was 1,820 people (2001 census), but decreased to 1,727 at the 2011 census. The village and nearby Tintagel Castle are associated with and steeped in the legends of King Arthur. The village has, in recent times, become attractive to day-trippers and tourists, and is one of the most-visited places in Britain. There are many literary and film associations with the village and like Boscastle it attracts more than its fair share of moden-day witches, pagans and role players whom simply fail to see the real truths right under their noses and their swishing capes…
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tintagel
King Arthur's Hall: King Arthurs Hall at Trevena is a substantial building of the early 1930s. It was built for custard powder manufacturer F. T. Glasscock as the headquarters of the "Fellowship of the Knights of the Round Table", behind Trevena House. A variety of Cornish stones are used in the construction, and the 73 stained glass windows illustrating the Arthurian tales are by Veronica Whall; there are several paintings of scenes from the life of King Arthur by William Hatherell. In 1927, the "Order of the Fellowship of the Knights of the Round Table" was formed in Britain by Frederick Thomas Glasscock (a retired London businessman, d. 1934) to promote Christian ideals and Arthurian notions of medieval chivalry. Glasscock was resident at Tintagel (in the house "Eirenicon" which he had built) and responsible for the building of King Arthur's Hall (an extension of Trevena House which had been John Douglas Cook's residence and had been built on the site of the former Town Hall and Market Hall). The hall is now used as a Masonic Hall, and is home to four Masonic bodies as the photos below show.
Masonic symbolism which always feature on our quests; the meaning of which certainly pre-dates modern-day Freemasonary <click on an image to enlarge>
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/King_Arthur%27s_Hall,_Tintagel
Since 1952, the building has been used as a Masonic Hall and is home to the King Arthur Lodge No. 7134. In 1962 a Royal Arch Chapte was formed by the Lodge, and the building is used by some other lodges to hold their installation meetings. The hall is now as home to four Masonic bodies:
King Arthur Lodge No. 7134 which was warranted on 13 November 1951;
St Enodoc Lodge No. 9226 which was consecrated on 30 May 1987;
King Arthur Royal Arch Chapter No. 7134 which was consecrated on 31 March 1962;
Tintagel Castle Lodge of Mark Master Masons No. 1800 which was consecrated on 23 April 1999.
It is certainly a stunning building inside, where one gets a real sense of a 'Grand Hall', the sort of hall where King Arthur could certainly have conducted his buisness, feasted and ruled from. The masonic influence is everywhere in the building too; it being an amazing and fitting building to hold lodge meetings. The day we went, a 'Fairy Fayre' was taking place, bringing together, the psychic, spiritual, witchy and pagan worlds, which meant entry was free on that day, but clear photos of the halls design were out of the question.
The very striking stained glass windows and the emblems associated with them are the work of Veronica Mary Whall (1887–1967) who was an important stained glass artist, painter, and illustrator and part of the Arts and Crafts Movement. She created 73 windows for King Arthurs Hall, Tintagel, that opened in 1933. As of 1997 it is considered to be the largest collection of stained glass panels of King Arthur made in the 20th century and a great example of Arts and Crafts workmanship. I have tried to include as many as i can here, together with some of the descriptions.
Tintagel is steeped in the tales of King Arthur, but few know of the real Lancelot or King Arthur & that they did indeed walk upon these shores: for everywhere we went we were reminded of the 'knightly virtues' by which each knight, then and now always endevours to live by. A true knight must always follow the codes of their life and of course importantly their oaths, for an oath taken can never be 'untaken' as it resonates on the metaphysical planes as well as the physical.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veronica_Whall
St Materiana's Church Tintagel: In St Materiana's Church, Tintagel; a site sacred and profound on so many levels with deep connections to Mary Magdalene and our quests, are some amazing and sacred artefacts, which although themselves do not go back to the actual 'dawn of time', they allude to and tell true stories that do. This church is so relatable to this 'quester' on a very personal level, both physical and metaphysical, for very profound reasons; important discoveries were truly made here. There are those rare moments in life (in time) where myth and reality collide head on and time seems to stop and one finds one's self catching ones breath. Out of this comes an understanding so deep that one's whole life simply falls into place and nothing can ever be the same again. As those whom have gone before, in who's footsteps I walk, I will continue to guide those whom seek the light…
The parish church of Saint Materiana, stands on a very isolated, yet beautiful location some distance away from the village of Tintagel. Almost on top of the cliff-edge, it's rocky headland view commands stunning views across the ocean. The church is a Church of England, grade 1 listed building; the first church on the sight, thought to have been founded in the sixth century, as a daughter church of Minister
St Materiana's Church on the cliff-top is a peaceful and profound sacred site with connections to both Mary Magdalene and Lancelot Desposyni <click to view>
The existing church may have been created in the late 11th or early 12th century. Art historian Nikolaus Pevsner (writing in 1950) suggested that its Norman-era design includes some Saxon features, while the tower may be 13th or 15th century in date. The most significant change in its design was the restoration in 1870 by Piers St Aubyn which included a new roof. Later changes include a number of new stained glass windows: many of these portray saints, including St Materiana, St George and St Piran. There are three modern copies of Old Master paintings, and a Roman milestone bearing the name of the Emperor Licinius (d. 324).
The church has connections to both Mary Magdalene and to Lancelot Desposyni, both whom have walked upon these lands and visited this church in times past. Mary traveled from France to England; to Cornwall in fact before the church was even here but never the less it was indeed a sacred mound and Mary would have known this. This site would have been her first port of call, for she would eventually land in Scotland. Inside the church are many artefacts, some with hidden meanings that connect to Templarism and certainly to Mary Magdalene herself, especially in the lower part of the Lady Chapel. Lancelot, also journying from France was here in Cornwall around 538 AD, almost one might say on a pilgrimage, as indeed some of us are doing today.
Often hidden histories lie hidden for years but surface at perfect points in time and maybe just for a moment of earthly time they share…
Saint Materiana's Church Tintagel
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Materiana%27s_Church,_Tintagel
Bloodline Connections: Lancelot Desposyni x 48 Great Grandfather or our head researcher, from the Fordham line. Born 520 Ad in France.
After a busy day, what better end could there be for a beautiful evening, than a short drive to Port Issac to chill out in the Old School House having a lovely meal…
'The Keeper of Scrolls' July 2016
Tags: All Saints Church Clovelly, Boscastle, Clovelly, Cornwall, Devon, History, King Arthurs Hall, Knights Templar, Lancelot Desposyni, Mary Magdalene, Masonic Symbolism, Museum of Witchcraft, St Materiana's Church Tintagel, Templar Sites, Templsr Symbolism, The Clarks, The Fordhams, The Nevilles, The Quests, Tintagel, Truth
QUEST 27: THE SACRED SITES OF DEVON & CORNWALL: PART ONE
Filed under: Local History, The Priory, The Priory Investigates... — Leave a comment
Quest 27: Devon and Cornwall: So our quest was at last upon us and it couldn't have got here quick enough. On Wednesday May 1st, we made our way to Gunnislake just inside the Cornish border, but wait! Our quest starts right here!
Day One: Princetown: St Michael & All Saints Church. Princetown is a village in the Dartmoor national park and is the principle settlement of the civil parish of Dartmoor Forest. Princetown is known for being the site of Dartmoor Prison and is around 1,430 feet above sea level; the highest settlement on the moor and one of the highest in the UK and is surrounded by moorland; thereby attracting many hikers and walkers, especially in the summer months.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princetown
It was a typical wet and misty Dartmoor afternoon when we arrived at St Michael & All Saints Church, Princetown; the Archangel St Michael being the patron saint of sick people, the elderly and of people of 'order' whom work in the military. Contrary to the 'official' write-ups of the church, it is built on an ancient sacred 'energy' site, connected to our quests, even though the current building itself is not that old. The church is of a simple design and built between 1812 – 1814 by prisoners captured in the Napoleonic Wars with France, and the War of 1812 with the United States, all of whom were held in Dartmoor prison. The east window contains stained glass of 1910, in memory of the American prisoners who helped to build the church. It is a designated Grade II* listed building but is now sadly a redundant church in the good care of the Churches Consevation Trust.
St Michaels & All Angels Church sitting amidsts the stuningly serene Dartmoor
Inside the church are many interesting artfacts, and as one would expect some poignant military memorabilia too, lest of all a seat saved in the front pews for soldiers unknown, which one can glimpse in the video. Interesting to note that our lead researcher's 6th great uncle, John Neville was stationed here, in the wars of 1812. He was born on the 20th April, 1773 in Birch in Essex, but he married a Mary Ann from Princetown and there is a record of their child Eliza Neville being baptised on the 11th June 1815, in this very church! The church had a lovely feel about it and felt much older; the beautiful and intriging wooden carvings around the pulpit, one of which portrays an animal head on a human body, certainly seemed older. The lovely tapestry of St Michael portrays the correct Celtic Cross, with the saint wearing blue, red and gold robes. The beautiful stained-glass window above the altar portrays the life and death of 'the Jesus', from left to right in story-book style. Also on one of the wooden chairs to the left of the altar are some very interesting carvings of a direct Enochian origin, relating and connecting the church firmly to our path…
Inside the church, showing the window, the St Michael tapestry and the Enochian carvings
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Church_of_St_Michael,_Princetown
Outside in the graveyard, very noticably separate from the rest of the gravestones is the secluded area where the prisoners have been laid to rest; separated in death as they were in life. Rather ironical really as death makes no distinction; we are all as one in death…
Take a tour around the church & discover our links & bloodline history for yourself
St Michael & All Angels Church Princetown
Day One: Walkhampton: St Mary the Virgin Church. Walkhampton is a village and civil parish on the western side of Dartmoor, in Devon. The village lies on the Black Brook, a tributary of the River Walkman, about 4.3 miles south-east of Tavistock set amidst beautiful unspoilt countryside.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walkhampton
Walkhampton church, which is a grade one listed building, is situated on an ancient elevated site about half a mile north-west of the village and can be seen for miles. Unlike most churches which face east, it faces north-east, the direction of the rising sun on the longest day. The present building, which is built of granite and has a tower with four prominent pinnacles, dates from the 15th century, with much later alteration, including restoration in 1860–61. For 400 years until 1985 the church had no dedication and was known simply as "Walkhampton Church", but in that year it was dedicated to St Mary the Virgin. Research has indicated that it may have been originally dedicated to St Dionisius of Walkynton. Sadly the church had already been locked when we arrived so we had to content ourselves with a stroll around the outside. It is a pretty chuch standing amidst some gorgeous countryside, so who knows what we may have found inside…
St Mary the Virgin; a pretty church built on an ancient site in beautiful Devon
And so onto Cornwall, where our digs for the next five nights was to be the converted Ebenezer Chapel, now flats; ours named aptly as 'Pilgrims Rest'.
Gunnislake is a large pretty village in East Cornwall situated in the Tamar Valley; an extremely beautiful area on the outskirts of Dartmoor in Devon. There is a history of mining in the area, but this is no longer active, but in it's day was one of the richest mining area of Europe. It has a small railway station which serves the local villages of the area. The geo-magnetics of the area are very powerful and interesting, especially for those using 'earth-based' satnav… (something to ponder on)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunnislake
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunnislake_railway_station
Bloodline Connections: Princetown: Our lead researcher's 6th great uncle, John Neville was stationed here, in the wars of 1812. He was born on the 20th April, 1773 in Birch in Essex, and he married a Mary Ann from Princetown; there is a record of their child Eliza Neville being baptised on the 11th June 1815, inSt Michael & All Angels Church, Princetown.
John's father was Earl Henry Neville, 2nd Earl of Abergavenny; a destination of a previous quest.
Walkhampton: Jonh Neville (as above) was stationed, as a soldier, in the area circa 1800's, 6th great uncle.
Gunnislake: connections with the Clarke, Fordham & Neville surnames.
And of course finishing off the day with a gorgeous meal in a wonderful atmospheric local pub and resturant as one must always have balance in life "Reverence & Mirth in equal measures"
Day Two: Buckfastleigh & Buckfast Abbey: We drove across beautiful Dartmoor to reach Buckfast Abbey, with a stop for lunch at this delightful and peaceful beauty spot in Dartmoor, which in the summer months is absolutely teaming with visitors.
Buckfastleigh is a small market town and civil parish in Devon situated at the edge of the Dartmoor National Park. It is part of Teignbridge and is a centre for tourism, and home to Buckfast Abbey. The town has grown as a mill town known for it's woollen mills, corn and paper mills and a tannery supported by the rivers Dart, Mardle and the Dean Burn; water being an essential natural resource used in the manufactoring of wool and other products. Buckfastleigh is medieval in origin and the name Buckfast means stronghold, and Leigh would have been the pastures belonging to Buckfast.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buckfastleigh
The very beautiful Benedictine monastry at Buckfast, known as Buckfast Abbey, is just near the edge of Dartmoor. After many ups and downs the monks are still there today and live a very peaceful devotional life. The Abbey is self-supporting with a farm, where vegetables are grown and animals are raised and a shop which sells wine, honey and religous items etc. The monastry is most famous for it's Buckfast Tonic Wine, a delicous fortified wine that the monks have been making since the 1890's
Buckfast first became home to an abbey in 1018. The first Benedictine abbey was followed by a Savignac (later Cistercian) abbey constructed on the site of the current abbey in 1134. The monastry was surrendered for dissolution in 1539, with the monastic building stripped and left as ruins, before being finally demolished. The former abbey site was used as quarry and later became home to a Gothic Mansion House.
The position of the hands in the above carving is very relevant to the Priory, our path and the truth of our quests; also note the Enochian influenced carvings around the doorway; all of which allude to teachings and truths of our path that are much older than the actual building here.
In 1882 the site was purchased by a group of French Benedictine monks, who refounded a monastery on the site, dedicated to Saint Mart. New monastic buildings and a temporary church were constructed incorporating the existing Gothic house. Work on a new abbey church, which was constructed mostly on the footprint of the former Cistercian abbey, started in 1907. The church was consecrated in 1932 but not completed until 1938. Buckfast was formally reinstated as an Abbey in 1902, and the first abbot of the new institution, Bonniface Natter was blessed in 1903. Despite all this it did feel a very peaceful place with some stunning works of art, windows and artifacts inside.
The abbey is full of stunning artworks, many with hidden symbolic messages; there are extra meanings here in several of these photos
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buckfast_Abbey
https://www.buckfast.org.uk/
Next and without further ado, we made our way to Exmouth Marina and Harbour to embark upon a scheduled boat trip along the Jurasic Coast. Not a part of the quest as such but something that would be informative and fun.
Exmouth itself is a port town, civil parish and seaside resort, sited on the east bank of the mouth of the River Ex, and is 7 miles east of Exeter. The two ecclesiatical parishes, Littleham and Withycombe Raleigh, that make up the town of Exmouth today can be traced to pre-Saxon times. The name of the town derives from its location at the mouth of the River Ex estuary, which ultimately comes from an ancient Celtic word for fish.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exmouth
We had booked to sail with Stuart Line Cruises, leaving from Exmouth Harbour at 2:15 and it was scheduled to be an over three hour trip, along the ancient coast line. This jurasic coast line is a world heritage site, attracting many visitors. It is England's only natural UNESCO World Heritage Site; the circular cruise sails along the oldest section of the site, known as the Triassic Era. The cruise certainly did show the age, beauty and importantly, the fragility of our coastlines. Here on the video below one can see the magnificance of the 'sea stacks' and hear a spot of the commentary on the video too. It was rather blustery out at sea but lots of snuggly blankets were thankfully provided.
The beauty of England's Jurasic Coast Line
Englands Jurasic Coast Line & the Beauty of Devon and Cornwall
Bloodline connections: Buckfastleigh has connections to the Clarke surname abd family link.
"The Keeper of Scrolls" May 2019
email me: moon.willow@ntlworld.com
Tags: Ancient Churches, Buckfast Abbey, Buckfastleigh, Cornwall, Dartmoor, Dartmoor Prison, Devon, Ebenezer Chapel Gunnislake, Exmouth, Exmouth Harbour, Exmouth Marina, Geo Magnetics, Gunnislake, Princetown, Sacred Sites, St Mary the Virgin Church Walkhampton, St Michael, St Michael & All Saints Church Princetown, Stuart Line Tours, the Clarke's, The Fordhama, The Jurasic Coast Line, The Nevilles, The Priory, The Quests, The True Royal Bloodline, Walkhampton
IRELAND: THE LAND OF THE TRUE HIGH KINGS: PART THREE
Filed under: Knight Templar, Local History, Philosophy, The Priory, The Priory Investigates... — Leave a comment
IRELAND: QUEST TWENTY SIX:
Day Four: Dublin: Although sadly we never had time to see anything of the city of Dublin as such, i did manage a few quick photos whilst traveling to our designated destinations, but certainly a city to come back to and explore at leisure.
Driving through Dublin!
St Andrews Church: Although we were unable to actually stop here due to location and parking challenges, we did indeed drive past and acknowledged that it is now the Central Tourist Office for Dublin! Times change, people change and the use of buildings change, but let us not be sad as it is indeed good to see the building being used and vibrant, even though not in a religious sense.
The original St Andrews Church was located on present-day Dame Street, but disapeared during Oliver Cromwell's reign in the mid-17th century. A new church was built in 1665, a little further away from the city walls and due to its shape was commonly known as the 'Round Church'. Thomas Dalton, Lord Chancellor of Ireland was buried here in 1730. The population of the parish in 1901 was 3,058, in 1971 it was 300. It has to be noted also that there is a high Lithuanian population here.
You can read more about St Andrews Church in the link below:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Andrew%27s_Church,_Dublin_(Church_of_Ireland)
Bloodline Connections: Both Albert John Fordham (1928-1987) and John Fordham (1892) were baptised here.
Also connection to the Neville line.
Christ Church Cathedral/The Cathedral of the Holy Trinity: This is the cathedral of the United Diocese of Dublin and Glendalough and the cathedral of the Ecclesiastical Province of the United Provinces of Dublin and Cashel in the Church of Ireland. It is the elder of the capitals two medieval churches being founded in c.1030, the other being St Patricks Cathedral. There were extensive renovations being carried out while we were there which were tad disorientating, but the hoardings themselves were fun and very photogenic in themselves, giving an opurtunity for some colourful photography!
Christ Church Cathedral: There are many richly sumptuous artifacts and fine decor here, yet at the same time there are equally (or in fact more) relevant and important histotical artifacts seemingly hidden away in corners…
The 'hidden' artifacts; many of which relate directly to 'The Neville' bloodline; but just why would they be kept low key and mostly unmarked?
Christ Church is officially claimed as the seat (cathedra) of both the Church of Ireland and Roman Catholic archbishops of Dublin. The cathedral was founded probably sometime after 1028 when King Sitric Silkenbeard, the Hiberno-Norse king of Dublin made a pilgrimage to Rome. The first bishop of this new Dublin diocese was Dunan or Donat; the diocese was at that time a small island of land surrounded by the much larger Diocese of Glendalough and was for a time answerable to Canterbury rather than to the Irish Church hierarchy. The church was built on the high ground overlooking the Viking settlement at Wood Quay and Sitric gave the "lands of Baldoyle, Raheny and Portrane for its maintenance." Of the four old Celtic Christian churches reputed to have existed around Dublin, only one, dedicated to St Martin of Tours lay within the walls of the Viking city, and so Christ Church was one of just two churches for the whole city.
Some of the amazing and priceless artworks in Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin; more photos from this cathedral can be seen in the section on Celtic Crosses (part one) and Templar Symbolism (part two)
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christ_Church_Cathedral,_Dublin
https://christchurchcathedral.ie/visit-us/
Right next door to the cathedral is a venue known as Dublinia; a historical recreation (or living history) museum and visitor attraction focusing on the Viking and Medieval history of the city. Dublinia is located in a part of Christ Church Catherdral, known as the Synod Hall.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dublinia
Bloodline connection is to the Neville line
St Patrick's Cathedral: Dublin: On this occasion, although on our itinery, we never actually made it to St Patricks Catherdral which was some distance away; the journey had been fairly long getting to Dublin from our base that morning and still lots lay ahead. But hopefully in the future was shall be sure to visit. Please do follow the links though to read up about it:
https://www.stpatrickscathedral.ie/learn/life-and-history/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Patrick%27s_Cathedral,_Dublin
St Nicholas Parish Church: Dundalk: After another drive through the Irish countryside we arrived in the busy town of Dunalk in County Louth; part of the diocese of Armagh. This is a bustling and very friendly town, it's name in Irish is Dún Dealgan, which means "Dalgan's fort" and it is the county town of County Louth. It is on the Castletown River, which flows into Dundalk Bay, and is near the border with Northern Ireland, halfway between Dublin and Belfast, so we had travelled a fair few miles that day. It has associations with the mythical warrior hero Cu Chulainn.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dundalk
St Nicholas Parish Church, sits on a busy road junction in the heart of the town, surrounded by local shops, cafes and takeaways. Again once inside it is a beautiful church with a very peaceful energy. The original church was built in the 1220's and some parts of the church have not born the ravishes of time very well, while in other parts restoration has been carried out.
The interior of St Nicholas Church
A Dr. Oliver Davies, who examined all the old churches of County Louth in 1945, put the probable date of the church in the thirteenth century and considered that it was the need of a rising seaport which called for its erection. In this connection it is suggestive that St. Nicholas is the patron saint of merchant venturers by sea, and that many sea ports have churches dedicated in his name. During the troubled times of the Rebellion in 1641-50, when Dundalk was taken by assault, and of the campaigns of Schomberg and James II, 1688-90, the church fabric became sadly damaged. It was re-roofed in part in 1702, as a stone in the vestry records, when Rev. Ralph Lambert was vicar, it was "restored in a new and more elegant form." and as is the case for so many churches restoration continued down the centuries.
For a parish church St Nicholas did have some rather stunning stained-glass windows
https://www.stnicholas-greenchurchdundalk.com/history
http://www.buildingsofireland.ie/niah/search.jsp?type=record&county=LH&regno=13701004
Bloodline Connection: the home of the 'Fallen' Nevilles of the Great War with actual records of the returned on 'The Returned Army' page.
NEVILLE, C, Royal Irish Rifles. From Church Street, Dundalk. (Tempest's Annual 1916)
NEVILLE, Sapper, E V, 68 Division, Signal Corps, Royal Engineers. From New Street, Dundalk. (Tempest's Annual 1916)
NEVILLE, Lieutenant, ERNEST W, Royal Engineers (Telegraphist). (Tempest's Annual 1917)
NEVILLE, Sergeant, W, Royal Army Service Corps. From New Street, Dundalk.(Tempest's Annual 1916)
NEVILLE, WILLIAM, HMS Anemone. From 1 Brunswick Row, Dundalk. (Tempest's Annual 1916)
Actual Records here:- http://www.jbhall.freeservers.com/the_returned_army_page_d.htm
Day Five: Belfast Jewish Community: As part of the Priory teachings we endevour to gain insight and understandings of all the earthly religions; to see common threads but also differences too. The Jewish community in Belfast dates back to 1079, but this building here was built in the 1960's; as well as a temple of prayer and service it is also a community hub. The people there were very friendly and welcoming, and to someone who's first time this was, the ladies kindly guided and engaged me in the service which was a massive three hours long due to the time of year!
It is quite a big building; much bigger inside than it appears on the outside and is decorated in a modern style with lots of blue and light coloured wood. As expected, treasures of the religion are housed there for services, but as there was a service taking place when we visited (our reason for going) i was unable to take any photos. It has to be noted though that even in these so called enlightened times, there was a small police presence outside the building the whole time that worship was taking place.
http://www.belfastjewishcommunity.org.uk/history/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belfast_Hebrew_Congregation
Bloodline Connection: The Neville line
St Anne's Cathedral: Belfast: A beautiful building with the largest Celtic Cross on the outside that i have ever seen! St Anne's Cathedral, also known as Belfast Cathedral, is a cathedral of the Church of Ireland in Donegall Street, Belfast, Northern Ireland. It is unusual in serving two separate dioceses (Connor and Down and Dromore). A cathedral is the place where a bishop has a seat but Belfast Cathedral is unusual in having the seats of two bishops – the Bishop of Connor and the Bishop of Down & Dromore. It is the focal point of the Cathedral Quarter, Belfast.
The first architect was Sir Thomas Drew, the foundation stone being laid on 6 September 1899 by the Countess of Shaftesbury. The old parish church of St Anne by Francis Hiorne of 1776 had continued in use, up until 31 December 1903, while the new cathedral was constructed around it; the old church was then demolished. The Good Samaritan window, to be seen in the sanctuary, is the only feature of the old church to be retained in the cathedral.
In 1924 it was decided to build the west front of the cathedral as a memorial to the Ulstermen and women who had served and died in The Great War. The foundation stone for this was laid by the Governor of Northern Ireland, the Duke of Abercorn on 2 June 1925 and the completed facade, to an amended design by the architect Sir Charles Archibald Nicholson, was dedicated in June 1927. The cathedral is very grand inside and spacious and of course very photogenic!
Some of the beautiful artworks and stained-glass windows to be found inside Belfast Cathedral
The Columba Challice, The Hand of G-d; note the position of the fingers. The Pyramids in stained-glass; an unusual design for a cathedral; if one looks close, one can see the sphinx too.
Bloodline Connection is that of the Neville line but we also saw a Forde reference too!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Anne%27s_Cathedral,_Belfast
Stained-Glass Windows; the stories told: Throughout the lands of mankind, stories and myths have always been told; by scribes, by artisans, by painters, by monks in the old times, verbally by story tellers then and now, and of course by those craftsmen whom painstakingly worked on the stained-glass windows seen in churches all over our lands at certain sacred points in time. To understand the messages contained within, we have to look deep into our past history, yet not as we know it, not as we are told but of the real history, often hidden in plain-sight right there on the windows.
The windows often depict the life and death of 'The Jesus', often showing him with a serpent entwined around a segment of the windows design. One would be forgiven to assume that it was a reference to the serpent of the well-known bible stories and in a way it is. Yet it alludes to 'The Serpent Priesthood'; the path of the true Knight Templar. The serpent connects to freedom, of being totally consumed by dogma; yet freedom has to be tasted within before it can be tasted without, so one (with knowledge of the Serpent Priesthood) learns over time how to control the serpent; how to be free.
The Jesus is often seen wearing the colours of the Templar (Neville) lineage, of Red and White (silver) representing blood and honour, especially in battle, with honour originating from the past monetery use of silver. Colours are never by accident; they are a very integral part of the hidden symbology and convey numerous meanings.
The lives and deeds of the saints are often depicted and of course it was St Patrick or Saint Columba here in Ireland; a saint having a certain connection to an area will often be depicted in the local church windows, yet they are also shown in mythological or esoteric connotations.
Of course many symbols and emblems to be found incorporated in these window designs again relate to the Neville bloodline, the Serpent Priesthood and to the Knight Templars, thus making them a fascinating source of history and thus traceble through time. But just why do these images always connect to each other in the way they do and how or why did they come to be? Enscriptions, together with Masonic and Templar symbols are very often placed strategically on the windows telling a truth without words, hidden from mankind.
The ladies in the life of the Jesus play a big part too, and if one looks closely at the windows, gender is not always what it seems to be either – or what we have been led to believe. Many artists of the day were involved in the creation of stained-glass windows, non more so than the Pre-Raphalite artists who were inexplicitly drawn towards mysticsm and knowledge. Celestial objects; the sun, stars and moon and other lesser-known planets, mean something much different in Templarism and often hold centre stage on many windows, often predicting the future times to come; yet offering a warning too. Caskets, boxes, scrolls, children and of course 'The Lamb' are often widely used too, as is nature and flowers, but always with a secret Craft meaning which eludes to the potions of creation.
.A selection of the stained-glass windows discovered in Ireland; many with messages hidden well within plain sight
So on these quests we are discovering among many things, how ancient buildings are speaking to us. The stunningly beautiful and exquisite artwork and mosaic tiles that adorn the wall and floors of many a church or cathedral is not just for the sake of the artwork alone, but also for the clues left to us, hidden 'within stone' of the true untold history of our country. All left for us to decipher; left for the astute truth seekers to discover and acknowledge – truly and surely a quest for the modern-day Knight…
Dan Brown did kind of have the right 'idea' in a very loose sense but was way, way off track with his actual facts and tellings; he had the wrong locations, the wrong churches and followed a few expertly placed red herrings, as one would. However the symbols of the past are all still here, expertly placed within plain sight for all to see, awaiting the astute to rip off their old hoodwinks and to decipher…..
These symbols do not connect to 'modern day Christianity' for they hark back to a much older time, travelling through the lineages of The Knights Templars, the Free Masons, the Eastern Star, to the Egyptian Mysteries, to Ancient Sumeria and even much further back in time and beyond our world. The clues and stories have survived, yet few know of the real meanings and of the 'placement' of the clues in specific areas. It is truly a quest of a lifetime and most certainly beyond, and that is why we love these quests so very much!
"The Grail Kingship is merely seasons in front.
So be it that all those whom disbelieve shall cease to remain" K. N.
"…show me that L.i.g.h.t that burns bright amongst the stars and the moon. Show me the dawn of a land that was never known and I shall see you in the trinity of time." K. N.
Conclusion to our Irish Quest; many Templar secrets shared here:
'The Keeper of Scrolls' October 2018
Tags: Belfast, Christ Church Cathedral Dublin, Dublin, Hidden Histories, Ireland, Judaism, Northern Ireland, Quests, Religion, St Andrews Church Dublin, St Columba, St Nicholas Parish Church Dundalk, St Patrick, St Patricks Cathedral Dublin, Stained Glass, Symbols, The Jesus, The Nevilles, The Serpent Priesthood, Truth
THE ISLE OF WIGHT: PART TWO: WHERE SACRED LINES MEET & THE SKIES OPEN…
The Neville Crest at Newport Minster
DAY FOUR: The Minster Church of St Thomas Newport: This was our second visit to this church; we had previously arrived in the freezing cold, when the the church was closed and the snow had covered all around in a white shroud, so it was welcoming to see the church in a different 'LIGHT'. St Thomas Church is a very vibrant church full of energy and life which emanates from the folks in charge, namely The Revd Kevin Arkell and his wife. So it was well worth the wait and also for the very warm and freindly welcome afforded to us. The church is slap bang in the middle of the town in a very surburban setting and ironically (or not) just outside and across the road from a Craft building of another kind…
The original late 12th-century church was dedicated to St Thomas of Canterbury known as Thomas Becket (1118–1170). Later, under the rule of King Henry V111 of England, (1509–1547), when Becket was declared to have been a traitor, the Canterbury part of the name was dropped. Its name and the ambiguous dedication to St Thomas was thereafter, over time, assumed by many to refer to Thomas the Apostle. From the 18th century its deterioration made any renovation futile, and funds were raised for a new church on its site. The new church was built over the years 1854 and 1855 to a design by the architect S. W. Dawkes of Cheltenam. Reflecting the building's history, but arguably unusual, the new church was dedicated on the feast of Thomas the Apostle to both him and St Thomas of Canterbury. The tower contains a ring of 12 bells.
Inside the church is a wealth of history and information and the church is actively setting up its own achive and history corner and can boast some amazing and historic artifacts; there is also a wealth of old photographs which are posted here. Revd. Kevin and his wife have an enthusiastic team around them who have some good projects on the go and ideas to draw in the community, children and all; so the very best of luck to them.
Sarrui Sarru: St Thomas's Church has a great deal of history attached to it; it has some amazing stained glass windows that also show a wealth of past history; from the civil war, the war of the roses, the Neville line and of course the Fluer de Lys, towards the top of the window. Looking to the top we see the cross, a symbol representitive of, or a reminder that there is no such a thing as a 'king on earth' or 'Sarrui Sarru' from the ancient Sumerian meaning 'King of Kings'; 'The Jesus'. A reminder then that throughout all the battles of the civil wars etc, the end result/the end game would alwayd be 'The Jesus'….
Merkabah: One of the most detailed stained-glass windows in St Thomas's, Newport is the second window below which shows six triskellian; three to the left and three to the right, masked in gilted gold but right at the top of the window and clearly shown, is the Merkabah, the original symbol of christianity, re-inforcing the fact that the cross is a new addition; the Merkabah was/is the symbol used for aeons before the modern-day cross, a new addition to the christian faith, took its hold upon history and also the minds of people. If we go back to grass roots, what people think of as 'The Star of David', the Merkabah, is in actual fact the true representation of christianty and for very good reasons too.
Window one is representitive of the civil war, the war of the roses, the Neville line, the Fluer de Lys and the Sarrui Sarru. Window two shows the Merkabah, the original symbol of christianity
Museum Section: Within this section of the church are some very beautiful and ancient artifacts; a few of which can be seen here including some amazing archive photos which we were giver permision to photograph. There are also some beautiful old bibles, ancient wooden chests and a wonderful wooden carved depiction of the last supper.
<click on all images to enlarge>
The Pulpit: The pulpit is from the old church and is carved in wood and thought to be carved by Flemish craftsmen. It is original and displays some very intricate carvings around its sides, some of which i managed to get some close ups of. It is unique insomuch that the figures carved on it are not biblical at all but are relating to the sciences and philosophies of the time. Also round the top of the pulpit is reference to the 'trumpet', as mentioned in the Book of Revelations; some of which have already occured….
The Font: There are two fonts here; the later one is shown here with carvings all around that we have become so familiar with over the course of these quests; the older of the two is to the right of the altar. When the church was rebuilt the original font was not returned with the pulpit etc, so the new font was built at the south door. Then someone came knocking on the door to say that the old font had been found in a garden in Newport and had been used as a bird bath for many years! So the church now boasts two fonts; the new one being used for major baptisms.
The newer font with its very symbolic and familiar carvings, the descriptions of which can be found on other quests… <click to enlarge>
Taize Service: In the evening of our daytime visit we were most fortunate to be invited back by Revd. Kevin, to a candlelit evening of chanting and meditation, a taize service, something that i had not encountered before. It sounded so lovely that we immedietly said yes. Although it was a taize servive for the christian lent, one can easily adapt it, in one's own mind, to suit ones own path or spirituality or even to just enjoy the experience and chanting as a whole. It was a small intimate gathering; there was a small choir from the church's own choristers attending, dressed in formal long red robes and every participant attending was invited to hold a lighted candle throughout the service.
We can all relate to the words below taken from the introduction to the taize service, whatever our faith. In The Priory, in Templarism, we do have an understanding of G-D. but from a different perspective to the christian understanding and we do not actually worship any higher being, yet have an acknowlegement of such. So a perfect end to a perfect day…
"Many trivial things in our lives shift our focus away from God. This evening we worship in the style of Taize style, clear your mind and let the music, prayers and readings help you to focus on God. We ask God to calm our hearts and clear our minds of life's many distractions as we come to worship"
….and finally more of the artworks from around St Thomas Church including the Neville Sheild in situ over the entrance just below the organ, more beautiful stained-glass windows, carvings from around the altar, the Ford connection and a glimpe of the wonderful ceiling <please click to enlarge>
You can see more of and read about the history of this church in the links below:-
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sts_Thomas_Minster
https://www.newportminster.org/
The Bloodline Connection is:
John Thomas Neville 1878 – 1953: directly connected to the church, Great Grandson of Edward King 1878 -1953 amd Great Grand Uncle of our lead researcher)
All Saints Church, Calbourne: A possitive change in the weather bought us to the little church of All Saints in Calbourne, although extensive roof repairs are being carried out we were still able to wander around inside. The church is set atop a 'hill' amidst picturesque rolling countryside. The church is medieval with the tower being rebuilt in 1752; its churchyard contains the commonwealth war graves of two British soldiers of World War 1. The church is built with Isle of Wight stone rubble with some flintwork and tiled roofs. The church is grouped with Holy Spirit Church, Newtown.
In the middle part of the church extensive roof repairs are being carried out and thus there was scaffolding up inside and out, yet we were still able to gain good access and take some unusual as well as general shots and a good video too.
You can hear much more about the church and its metaphysical and Craft connected history and further facts that relate to mythology by linking to our video below…
St Thomas Newport & All Saints Calbourne
Further shots that relate to the windows, the 'spinning wheel' and an unusual plaque tucked on a window ledge to the left of the altar and of course the Neville shield…
We were not able to gain access to the graveyard due to the health and safety reasons of the scaffolding being up but one can see an alternative view of the spinning wheel from the outside <please click on all images to enlarge>
A full Neville connection with McAndrew
A full connection to Robert McAndrew 1829 – 1879 (3 x Great Uncle to our head researcher) born in Elgin and died at Calbourne
Read more about the building and its construction here:
https://www.britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/101218604-church-of-all-saints-calbourne#.WrkUqpch3IU
Holy Trinity Church, Cowes: This church at the popular seaside resort of Cowes has a very commanding position directly overlooking the sea but sadly on this occasion the church was well and truly closed to us, so a quick wander around its perimeter to take some quick shots for the record was all we could muster.
The church is situated on the north-east side of the Isle of Wight; the town of Cowes is world famous for its yachting and other sea-side related activities. Holy Trinity Church was conscecrated on midsumers day in 1832 by Bishop Sumner, the Bishop of Winchester as a 'place of worship on Cowes foreshore for the sailors and seafarers'. The church was built in distintive yellow Isle of Wight brick in the Gothic style. The building was designed by Mr William Bramble of Portsmouth. In 1862 the church was enlarged by the addition of a Chancel and Sanctury. One of the penalties of being so close to the sea is that the land underneath the building tends to move. During the past year extensive works have been carried out to stabilise the buliding.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holy_Trinity_Church,_Cowes
Maurice Neville: 1915 – 1990 (2 x cousin, twice removed to our head resercher)
Our intrepid researchers chilling out on the sea-front in Cowes; and yes after all that snow and ice it really was that glorious!
St Mildred's Church Whippingham: It had turned into a stunningly gorgeous and sunny day when we arrived at Whippingham; who could have guessed that two days earlier the island had been covererd in a blanket of snow and ice and at one point we had to have assistance to get our vehicle up an icy slope! As we drove up to the church it looked a picture in the glorious sunshine set amidst its beautiful grounds.
The village of Whippingham and the church are best known for their connection with Queen Victoria. Whippingham was the centre of a royal estate supporting Osborne House and Barton Manor. Queen Victoria always took close interest in 'her people' at Whippingham. This fact is reflected in the many memorials in St Mildred's Church which commemorate members of the royal family and household. The chancel of the church was built in 1854/55 by the architect Albert Jenkins Humbert, although Prince Albert is thought to have had a guiding hand. The remainder of the church was constructed in 1861/62; a side chapel is dedicated to the Battenberg/Mountbatten family. Sadly the church was shut, so no interior shots but you can discover more in the links below:
http://www.iow.uk.com/whippingham-church/index.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Mildred%27s_Church,_Whippingham
However we did manage to see some rather interesting carvings and windows from the outside of the church, indicating very strongly the Craft connection here. The carvings around the entrance porch were particularily fascinating as they point towards an Enochian connection (the root/route of Craft), the windows depict the ten pillars and above the archway a square and compass is very evident, showing 'one point still in darkness' telling a tale of masonic and templar connections to this church.
<Please click on all images to enlarge>
The Bloodine Connection here is:
Robert Neville: 1907 – 1969 (2 x cousin twice removed to our lead reasearcher)
At the end of a very busy and revealing day; time to unwind with the sun and the views and all that St Mildred's Church and the beautiful Isle of Wight has to offer
DAY FIVE: All Saints Church, Ryde and homeward bound… So our last day on the beautiful Isle of Wight had arrived all too quickly and yet just one final destination before we ventured forth on the ferry and over the seas back to England. All Saints Church is a parish church located in Ryde; not very far away from where we were staying. The building is a landmark of the island; the spire being visable from many points around the island and indeed even from the mainland itself, projecting beyond the very skyline.
Although the church has lost a lot of its sacred energies it does still contain some beautiful carvings and artworks, all of which are well worth a look at. The church, which is often referred to as the 'Cathedral of the Island' is a grade two listed building. It was built between 1868 and 1872 by the architect George Gilbert Scott; the spire was an addition in 1881/82 and is climbed early on the Feast of Ascension to sing an Ascension hymn. There are some lovely stained-glass windows here including one dedicated to the memory of Samuel Poole, in the Chapel of the Good Shepherd, but many windows were destroyed in the second world war.
The carvings around the font show a merkabah, the original symbol of christianity, a simple carved cross also utilises the merkabah and one can see other artworks here too:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Saints%27_Church,_Ryde
http://www.rydeallsaints.org.uk/
Bloodline Connection is:
Alfred Neville (1904 – 1997) 2nd cousin 2 x removed to our head researcher)
The Isle of Wight proved to be an island of revelations and surprises and provided us with many more dots to connect on our quests for the true bloodlines, but what does that actually means and why….?
Please stay connected with us for our next quest to Ireland, Quest 25, going back to the start….
The Keeper of Scrolls March 2018: email me for further info 'moon.willow@ntlworld.com'
"A perfumed tree, how sweet the smell… But a fruitful tree is far from wells,
Doth carry the roseline from land to air, then once to the four winds as all do stare"
Tags: All Saints Church Calbourne, All Saints Church Ryde, Enochian Symbolism, Hidden Pyramids, Holy Trinty Church Cowes, Isle of Wight, KIng of Kings, Knights Templar, Masonic Symbolism, Merkahba, Quest 24, Sacred Energies, Sacred Lines, Sarrui Sarru, St Mildreds Church Whippingham, St Thomas Church Newport, Taize, The Nevilles, True Bloodlines, Truth
THE ISLE OF WIGHT: PART ONE: WHERE SACRED LINES MEET & THE SKIES OPEN…
QUEST TWENTYFOUR: MARCH 2018. It was a very cold and wintery day as we journeyed over to the Isle of Wight on Quest 24. Amazingly though, and i guess because most folks were house bound and heeding the weather warnings, the journey was swift and without incident. with even the ferry ride being calm. However upon landing on the island the weather set in and snow and ice gave a serene beauty to the already stunning countryside.
Leaving Plymouth and arriving on the snow-bound Isle of Wight
DAY ONE AND TWO: Timeless snowscenes at Newport Minster, Carisbrooke Priory, St Mary the Virgin Church, Carrisbrooke, the slopes of Carrisbrooke Castle and the United Reformed Church, Shanklin. Today was a day of simply enjoying the stunning views and taking photos; most churches and venues we had planned to visit were shut with folks staying wisely at home apart from those brave souls who were braving the snow covered slopes of Carrisbrooke Castle with sledges in tow! We slithered and slipped our way though the day, braving a few very slippery slopes and icy roads but certainly made the most of it!
Reading on through this quest; some churches were kindly opened to us for a second visit and for that we thank all concerned; more detailed accounts are to be found by scrolling through. However those not opened to us are/were still very much a part of this quest and the reason we are doing them. All churches are part of a metaphysical/physical sacred alignment, all are 'perfect points in time': all tell a story of the past, present and future, all are a part of a whole truth and a part of the path we follow…
Newport Minster; picturesque in the snow
Serene snow-covered views: Carisbrook Abbey, showing the Neville Sheild and brave sous sledging on Carisbrook Castle slopes <click on all images to enlarge>
The Parish and Priory Church of St Mary the Virgin, Carisbrook looking stunning covered in snow.
The timelessness of a snow covered Carisbrook and an 'orb' just outside the church. <click to enlarge>
The United Reformed Church, Shanklin in a timeless snow covered setting..
http://www.carisbrookepriory.org.uk/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Mary%27s_Church,_Carisbrooke
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carisbrooke_Castle
http://www.shanklinurc.co.uk/building.htm
DAY THREE: St Mary the Virgin, Carisbrooke: So on our second visit to this church, which sits high on a hilltop with commanding views over the town, we were thankfully able to gain access. The parish of Carisbrooke is one of the largest on the island in both size and population and also one of the oldest. Carisbrooke Church is considered to be 'the most important ecclesiastical building on the Isle of Wight'. The church is mentioned in the Domesday Book and the present nave of the church was built in 1070 as decreed by William Fitz-Osbert who was governor of the island. It was originally attached to the Priory of St Mary the Virgin, which was occupied by monks from the Abbey of Lyra (now Lire) in Normandy. The noble tower, the crowing glory of the church (photos seen above), was erected fifty five years after the dissolution of the monastry. Later still are the two large windows of the north wall which date from the sixteenth century when Bishop Fox held the see of Winchester. His rebus, a fox is carved on one of the label stops. Much more on the history can be found by following the link below:-
http://carisbrookestmary.org.uk/history/
Beautiful artworks within the church include a window showing 'The Lamb of God' pointing to a strong Templar influence, the Neville shield indicating the bloodline movement, the other two shields, when merged represent 'Temperence' and 'Fortitude'. the statue of the madonna and child by John Skelton in 1969 and some very unusual carvings of a Sumerian nature…
The Bloodline links of interest here are:-
Penelope Fordham (1838-1879) Granddaughter of Edward King Fordam of Hertfordshire. She was born in Godshill and died in Godshill
All Saints Church, Godshill: The Church of the Lily Cross…. Where the Four Points Meet: Just as the name would suggest, this is an amazing church, set atop a sacred mound that rises above a very pretty and historic town. The earliest church at Godshill was built in the Saxon period, possible during the reign of Edward the Confessor, but the current church is is almost entirely 15th century and built by the monks of the Sheen Priory. The hill on which the church stands was the site of pagan worship long before christianity reached the Isle of Wight. All Saints is the largest medieval church on the island and one of the most visited and photographed, which is partly due to the treasure, found inside the church, of a 15th century wall painting of Christ crucified on a lily; a very Templar symbol.
The Lily Cross, or as it was formely known, 'The Budding Cross' is to be found painted on the east wall of the south transept and although this areas was locked up i did manage some shots through the bars. Although there are similar depictions in Europe, this is the only 'Lily Cross' in Britain and dates from the middle of the 15th century. Sadly during the Reformation the painting was white-washed several times; though we dont know if this was to preserve it or destroy it. t was only rediscovered in the 19th century and carefully cleaned and is now amazingly clear and brightly coloured
'The Lily Cross' and the entrance to where it is displayed <please click on images to enlarge>
I know that there is much more to the significance and meaning of The Lily Cross, yet it is very hard to find any indepth explanations but this below, together with a christian symbolism of the lily, is the nearest i could get to any thing that had a bite to it. So for the moment Godshill is keeping its secrets…
http://www.paintedchurch.org/godshill.htm
For a more detailed tour around the church with an explanation of the importance of the church, it's symbolism and Templar connections please see our link to our youtube channel.
Godshill Church, the Isle of Wight
Always looking around with eagle-eyes, i was very pleased to see this significant symbol enscribed on the wall of the entrance porch of this ancient church, as it meant a lot to see it there, on The Church of the Lily Cross. Not as commonly thought, the Awen symbol, as significantly older with a deeper meaning; a footprint on the sands of time carved into the fabric of reality….
The above photos show the Knight Templar connection, the Judaic connection of two cherub statues, the 'Gatekeeper' statue, together with the mother and child that indicate a full Templar layout to the church (relating to Wisdom, Strength and Beauty). Our video explains much more… <click on photos to enlarge>
https://godshillparish.co.uk/history.php
http://www.genuki.org.uk/big/eng/HAM/IOW/Godshill
The Bloodline Connections here are:-
John Peter Fordham 1810 – 1846 (3 X Great Grand Uncle to our head researcher)
George Albert Neville 1914 – 1989 (Grand Uncle to our head researcher)
Penelope Amelia Fordham 1838 – 1879 (Granddaughter to Edward King Fordham)
Lily May Clarke 1905 – 1994 (Great Grand Aunt to our head researcher)
Frank Albert Bartram 1883 – 1962 (Great Grand Uncle to our head researcher)
The Four Major Physical and Metaphysical lines of our quests all come together here at Godshill. So we have the Neville line, the Fordham line, the Clarke line amd the Bartram line ie "Where the Four Points Meet"…
You can read much more about the church and its treasures by following the links below:-
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Saints'_Church,_Godshill
http://www.britainexpress.com/counties/wight/churches/godshill.htm
St Lawrence, Vetnor: Being a pilgrim on the earthly plane is what a journey is all about; each step taken with intent and mindfulness, tuning into the physical and the metaphysical. As with our quests, very much of the metaphysical as well as the physical and being pilgrims in time treading the earthly plane…
A gorgeous and tiny, tiny ancient church, Parish of St Lawrence on the Isle of Wight, on a hilltop as per usual and overlooking a rugged landscape down to the sea.. Still used today and still visited by pilgrims as the two seeking refuge from the cold on this particular day. Small but with some very interesting treasures to be found inside with deep meanings….
I can imagine in days past, pilgrims making their way along a dirt track, with the cold wind blowing their cloaks around them; and this the only shelter for miles around….
Visiting these sites bring history and our past alive and one gets a true sense of walking with our ancestors. I dunno, just being there made me connect like a point on a circuit board and think of these things.
So tiny, yet very beautiful in a very simplistic yet spiritual way for centuries used by pilgrims and Templars alike; often one and the same…
St Lawrence, which is much older than Ventnor, is a village found on the south side of the Isle of Wight, west of Ventnor which many do consider to be a part of the town. St Lawrence is situated on the undercliff, where it is subject to frequent landslides. In the 19th century, St Lawrence was the subject of am ambitious plan to develope the village as a resort to rival Ventnor by a German developer named William Spindler, a man who had made his fortune as a chemist in Berlin and who lived on the island from 1881 to his ndeath 1889 amd subsequent burial at Whitwell. he did have enormous influence as a developer but most of his projects have now fallen prey to the ravages of time.
The small St Lawrences Church at Ventnor, dates from the 12th century and is one of three churches in St Lawrence and is easily missed and not the church that the tourists make a bee-line for with the Pre-Raphalite windows. This infact is the church that really matters; it is tiny and simple yet exudes it's history, with some of the artifacts being very special indeed. Before the addition of a chancel in 1830, it was only 25 feet long and 11 feet wide and was considered the smallest church in England. It has a 15th century baptismal font, a stoup that is about 500 years old and a series of 18th century hat pegs. The piscina niche is almost the same age as the church. The 'Jesus' is shown in beautiful red robes and wearing the garnet stone; the significance of which, within various 'inner' Craft circles, goes deep and powerful.
The 'Jesus' wearing the significant garnet stone around his neck, the open bible, the Neville shield, the list of past 'bloodline' rectors and the ancient wooden carving <click to enlarge>
Bloodline connections here are:
Brent R. R. Neville; a rector here in 1902 (ancestor of our head researcher)
Edward S. Bartrum; a rector here in 1912 (ancestor of our head researcher)
For a full tour around this wonderful little church in Ventnor and to catch up on a snowy scene from outside Carrisbrooke church, please se our link:-
Carrisbrooke & Ventor on the Isle of Wight
https://www.britishlistedbuildings.co.uk/101225276-old-church-of-st-lawrence-ventnor
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Lawrence,_Isle_of_Wight
St Andrew, Chale: It had turned into a wet and rainy day, yet the journey was very worth it as this church proved to be a treasure trove of surprises.This medievil church is in the parish of Chale on the Isle of Wight and was founded by Hugh Gendon in 1114 when it was dedicated to St Andrew, though the present day church dates from the 14th century. Originally it was a Catholic church, but on the reformation it became part of the Church of England where for 900 years services have been held in St Andrew's and in those years the church has been extended many times, with the tower being added in the 15th century. Read more about the church below:-
https://www.chalebayfarm.co.uk/st-andrews/
The church's dedication to St Andrew has been explained in three ways. Firstly, St Andrew was a fisherman and fishing played an important part in this coastal community. Secondly, it could have been named after the man who paid to have it built. Another explanation is that the closest saint's day to that on which it was dedicated is St Andrew's. There is no evidence to give any of these explanations greater probability. St. Andrew's, although high above the sea, is exposed to the wind. The stonework is dotted with lichens; these are evidence of the purity of the air, which is damp enough to cover some stones very thickly.
Inside the church are some beautiful artifacts and windows that tell a tale or two of a history not generally know to the public. <click on an image to enlarge>
The 'Angelic' beings around the altar are interesting (all being slightly different) and relating to the 'four pillars' A more detail explanation can be found in the video below…
The stained-glass windows show symbols with meanings that go beyond what is percieved as a 'christian' church, especially the window depicting 'The Scribes' with the full Enochian symbolism in view, which will once again cause one to pause, to consider the true roots/routes of what we know as 'christianity…. <click to enlarge>
The Bloodline Connections here are:
John Wright Neville, 1845 – 1878 (1st cousin 3 x removed to our head researcher)
Christ Church, Totland, Alum Bay: This church is in the Isle of Wight Deanery and the Diocese of Portsmouth. It is the western most parish in the Diocese and includes the tourist attractions of Colwell Bay, The Needles, Alum Bay and Tennyson Down. Although the church is located at the geographical centre of the parish, the heart of the village is nearly half a mile down the hill at the site of the church hall. It is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the church itself has a beautiful and tranquil burial ground in a very natural and peaceful setting.
The parish of Totland Bay was formed in 1875 out of the parish of Freshwater and includes the famous Needles Rocks and Lighthouse. That the legal formalities were carried through satisfactorily was mainly due to the Revd Christopher Bowen, MA, a resident who most generously gave the land necessary for the church, churchyard, vicarage house and school. To him and his friends we are also indebted for "their energy and patient efforts" in connection with "the building and consecration" of the church. In recent years the vicars of Totland Bay have also acted as honorary chaplains to the keepers of the lighthouse. In 1869 a temporary church of wood was erected opposite the present parish church where it stood until the latter, begun in 1874, was finished a year later. It was then re-erected on the beach and for a time served as the village reading room and library. It now belongs to the Totland Bay Hotel and Pier Co, and serves as annexe to the hotel.
Inside, the church is fairly and surpringly spacious, though to be honest, many of the original artifacts are no longer there and sadly the church has lost much of its original 'energies'. It does however have some very nice stained glass windows, and on the outside wall before the main entrance, a rather lovely and prominent carving of 'The Lamb of God' (the Agnus Dei)