Ascot Priory facts for kids
Ascot Priory is a special place in Berkshire, England. It started in 1861 as a priory, which is like a home for a group of religious people. It was the main home for the Society of the Most Holy Trinity, a group of nuns (women who dedicate their lives to God) in the Anglican Church. Today, Ascot Priory is used as a church and a place for people to find peace and spiritual calm.
What is Ascot Priory Used For?
Ascot Priory is a peaceful place set in 40 acres of beautiful woodlands and gardens. It is now a centre for people to go on "retreats." A retreat is a time away from everyday life to relax, think, and connect with their faith. It's a quiet space where people can feel renewed and hopeful.
The priory church is a place for worship and prayer all year round. There is a small group of people who regularly attend services there. The main service, called Mass, happens every Sunday at 10:00 am. There are also daily Mass services from Tuesday to Friday in the Lady Chapel, mostly for those attending retreats.
How Ascot Priory Started
The group of nuns connected to Ascot Priory was first started by a woman named Lydia Sellon in 1849. They were called the Society of the Most Holy Trinity. This was one of the first groups of Anglican sisters (nuns) to form. Their main goal was to help poor people in the seafaring town of Devonport. Because of this, they were often called the "Devonport Sisters."
The society grew quickly. In the 1850s, they joined with other similar groups in London. This included the very first group of Anglican sisters, known as the Sisterhood of the Holy Cross.
