Abstract
Sacristy Press is a small, independent publishing house based in Durham, specializing in theology and history and offering the opportunity for contemporary poets to see their words in print. These three short volumes are attractively produced.
Hughes’ GASP! falls into three sections: places, people and relationships, and nature and muse. She takes us over the world, capturing place in opulent, impressionistic colours, in poems that are closely observed and descriptive. Her faith shines through. The words do not work hard enough, however, and leave little to the imagination.
McCrave, a retired doctor, lives in Scotland. Her poetry locates itself in the spiritual encounter, capturing the beauty of the natural world to inspire prayer and reflection, often with the feeling of the psalms.
Grieve is a cathedral chaplain at Durham and Love in Thin Places takes the reader on a pilgrimage through the North East, exploring Cuthbert’s world as he circles around and comes to rest in the cathedral. This is a volume to accompany a visit; an encouragement to know the building through prayer.