The Green Blade Riseth

It is hardly considered unusual for a Christian to believe in miracles, and what I experienced this past week has no elements of the supernatural about it. But it had the effect of a miracle, which is to say, it increased my faith, and lifted my heart.

Last year after our Eastertide celebrations, the Altar Guild and I moved all the many potted hyacinths and tulips and lilies off of the high and side altars where they had been arranged into the old unused upper parish hall — a large room that over the years had become mostly a storage space as it was in no condition to be used for much else — the heat having been cut off a few years ago. My goal was to let the plants dry out over the summer and then remove the bulbs in the fall and plant them outdoors. Well, things tending to gang agley, and other matters arising, I never got around to harvesting and planting.

Last month, however, a decision was made to start a Montessori school for young children in the old hall, which requires significant renovation before it can be used. The first thing that had to happen was spring cleaning-out of all of the various things that had accumulated there — including a lovely bishop’s chair which is now repaired and sitting in our sanctuary where it belongs.

I went into the old hall prepared to pack up all of the dead dry plastic-potted plants when what to my wondering eyes should appear but a number of fresh green sprouts, and in a few cases some actual blooming pink and purple hyacinths! There must have been enough residual moisture, and the unheated space cool enough, and enough light coming in through the large stained-glass window for the bulbs to survive the winter and begin to come to life.

I’m happy to report that about two thirds of the bulbs emerged, and they are now freshly watered and arranged on the side altars. Blessed Eastertide!

Tobias Stanislas Haller BSG