St Patricks Church

On Sunday I visited St Patricks Church in Heysham and the Priory ruins behind it. I had heard a while ago there were some graves there that were carved out of  rock. Only after looking around the Priory ruins did I finally find them. They were in such an unlikely place, on a slab of rock at the very edge of a small cliff that looked out to sea. The view from this rock was epic. I can see now why they were located there . You could almost imagine flying out to sea and away across the open landscape somehow. I think this was why this site was chosen for use as a premium burial site. Carving the graves from the rock must have been much work so im guessing the people laid to rest in them must have been important. The rock slab felt like a launch pad, and only a temporary resting place. Its just the feeling I got when I visited though. It seemed as though it was a departing point for souls. I could imagine the spirits of the deceased shooting of across the bay. It was not a restful stable site. It implied movement and the start of a journey. Well that was what I strongly felt that day.
   I have noticed that Priorys whether ruined or intact still carry the most amazing atmospheres of peace and tranquillity. It doesn't seem to matter how long they have been ruins, or how much is left, the feeling of total peace is still living there. I guess all the rituals practised in them have led to a lasting aura ? Anyway I returned home feeling quite refreshed. I felt still quite tired, but some part of me was replenished. I guess that was mission accomplished.
 Another thing I have noticed is how I get disorientated when I am getting near these places. I forgot which turn off to take and ended up driving through the village back streets. I also experience a very black mood before hand too. It almost seems like these two annoying events always have to happen before I find the peace Im looking for.

 

Priory ruins

 

 

 

Rock graves. Pre 8th Century ? No one is sure...

 

St Patricks