Verses on Various Occasions · Chapter
Persecution explained
The chapter depicts the Church as a woman fleeing into the wilderness, accompanied by a steadfast priest who carries her mandates to the world.
What happens
The chapter depicts the Church as a woman fleeing into the wilderness, accompanied by a steadfast priest who carries her mandates to the world. A mother speaks to her child, foretelling that the child will one day join the priest's sacred band, despite the child's current reluctance and attachment to worldly joys.
Themes in this chapter
Suffering and Humility
The Church's flight into the wilderness and the priest's austere life reflect suffering and humility in the face of persecution.
The Church and Tradition
The Holy Mother (the Church) and her priest embody the enduring tradition and authority of the Church despite worldly rejection.
Characters to notice
- Mary
The Holy Mother speaks to her child, explaining the role of the priest and foretelling the child's future.
- Unknown
The child addressed by the Holy Mother, who is hesitant about joining the priest's sacred band.
- Some lonely Saint
The priest described as austere, dauntless, calm, and blithe, who bears the Church's mandates.
Key passages
“And the woman fled into the wilderness.”
The Church retreated into isolation and hardship.
This opening line sets the theme of persecution and exile.
“The world has cast me forth, and I Dwell with wild earth and gusty sky;”
The Church has been rejected by society and now lives in the wild, untamed natural world.
The Holy Mother describes her state of exile.
“He bears to men my mandates high, And works my sage behest.”
The priest delivers the Church's sacred commands and carries out her wise instructions.
The role of the priest as a messenger and servant of the Church.
“Another day, dear child, and thou Shalt join his sacred band.”
In the future, you will become part of the priest's holy company.
A prophecy of the child's eventual vocation.
“Ah! well I deem, thou shrinkest now From urgent rule, and severing vow; Gay hopes flit round, and light thy brow: Time hath a taming hand!”
I know you currently hesitate at the strict discipline and binding commitment, as joyful distractions surround you, but time will temper your spirit.
The mother acknowledges the child's reluctance and reassures that maturity will bring acceptance.