A Necessary Presence

"Clare Bryden's gentle, precise poems embody the kind of stillness where real seeing becomes possible, a 'reweaving', as she says, of what is given to us. 'Never get used to this', she reminds her writing self. It is a good summary of the quiet awakeness to which this collection points us." - Dr Rowan Williams, former Archbishop of Canterbury

In A Necessary Presence, Clare Bryden weaves deep connections across time, geography, and the quiet places of daily life. This moving poetry pamphlet captures momentary 'noticings', as the numinous transforms everyday activities. Whether finding the divine in a spider and dust particles or hearing a sacred calling in a cloister garden, these poems remind us that everything is knitted together.

A Journey Through Landscape and Faith

The collection journeys across sacred and natural landscapes-from the ancient stone of Kilpeck Church in Herefordshire and the soaring rafters of Blythburgh in Suffolk, to the broadleaf woods of the poet's home county of Devon. Whether lingering along the Welsh borders of the Wye Valley at Tymawr Convent, or with St Columba in Ireland contemplating his sea journey north, Bryden writes with a grounding gentleness that speaks to readers of all backgrounds and beliefs.

Where Nature Meets the Numinous

The natural world makes its presence felt in surprising, magical ways:

• a butterfly prophesies
• a pine marten claims ownership of its human host
• old tree stumps hold space for grace

A Necessary Presence invites us all to pause, step into the silence, take nothing for granted, and share in the vital work of reweaving our world.

Perfect for readers of spiritual poetry, Christian mindfulness, nature writing, and anyone seeking a moment of peace and contemplation. Add this beautiful collection to your shelf today.