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His Heart in Hiding: The Priesthood of Gerard Manley Hopkins, SJ

Tradition and Sanity

In late September 1877, in a quiet corner of Wales, Gerard Manley Hopkins, newly ordained to the priesthood, ascended the altar for the first time. The Jesuit chroniclers did not record the day of his first Mass. Of all that is known of his life, this intimate detail remains appropriately hidden. The moment must have been unspeakably precious for him after a painful conversion and nine long years of preparation. With the fragrance of chrism lingering on his hands, he took up the paten, and prayed the Offertory in a low voice... This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.traditionsanity.com/subscribe