Path of the Disciple
“In the New
Testament the representative appointed by the apostle for each local church is
the overseer or bishop. The distinction in function between these and the
deacon is absolute. The deacon can preach and convert, but the transmission of
sacramental grace from the divine comes through the apostles. When the apostles
handed their power to successors these were called overseers (episcopi) or
bishops. The priesthood in the fullest sense rests with the bishop who alone
retains the power of transmitting orders. The repository of this authority,
appointed by Jesus Christ Himself, was the Apostolic Church. Since apostolic
times ecclesiastical authority has been transmitted in three degrees throughout
the Church: deacon, priest and bishop.”
“The Grail Church
represents that which has been lost to Christianity. But on Good Friday 1973 it
was found … ‘Wearing white robes and carrying a nine-foot-high wooden cross, he
plans to set off from Hampstead Heath next week on a pilgrimage of peace.
Walking all the way with him will be a group of twelve young supporters, who
want to spread the simple, spiritual ways of life originally taught by Christ (Hampstead and Highgate Express, 4 May
1973).’
A spiritual journey had led us to that summit beneath a darkening sky … and on
that fateful day an inner voice told us that the renewal had begun. This became
our central quest: to rebuild the ancient Grail Church and restore its sacred
orders so woefully broken down when Rome succeeded at Canterbury. I could not
help but recall how St Francis of Assisi had been inspired to begin his own
fellowship. While he was walking near the Church of San Damiano a voice from
within his soul bade him to enter the building and pray most devoutly. A
tender, compassionate voice then spoke to him: ‘Francis, do you not see that My
house is falling into ruin? Go, and repair it for Me.’ Trembling and amazed
Francis replied: ‘Gladly I will do so, O Lord’.”
(Above): Glastonbury Tor and St John’s window depicting St Joseph of Arimathea with the Holy Grail. (Below): Abbey ruins.
