Sunday 28 August 2011

The Church of St Michael de Rupe

The church on Brent Tor can be seen in the distance in many of my photographs of Dartmoor. This church, perched on a rocky outcrop, is one of my favourite places on Dartmoor. We recently visited it when the weather was changing dramatically between sunshine and showers.It is still in regular use for services and is lit by gas light. While we were there this time, the bells were in the process of  being rehung. Despite all the works going on, it has a very peaceful atmosphere and its location demands that you stand and stare and take a little time out with God. It is the subject of much history and many stories which you can read about here.


It is certainly a place to visit if you venture to Dartmoor and the views are worth the climb. Make sure you choose a clear day.








I am sure there is a story to be written about this character who was accompanying the men who were hanging the bells and she was watching for any approaching visitors to the churchyard.











New Living Translation (©2007)
Be still in the presence of the LORD, and wait patiently for him to act. Don't worry about evil people who prosper or fret about their wicked schemes.

8 comments:

  1. What a wonderful building on a spectacular site! A Church reaching high to Heaven. With such a view one can instantly make the connection between inspiration and spires.
    For one half moment I thought your dog was standing next to a ghost ... but it was a grave head-stone.

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  2. Of all your posts, I think this is my favorite. These are some of the most spectacularly beautiful photographs I've seen in a long time--they speak to me on so many levels. Not sure I can put words to it, but they resonate. You have quite an "eye," and I am the better for it!!

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  3. This is a very special place and it is very difficult to explain why. The views are spectacular but inside there is something breathtaking about the peace I felt in that place.
    As to the dog...she reminded me of the dog who sat on her master's grave when I first saw her sitting there. I can see what you mean about the ghost, Shirley,

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  4. "The dog that sat on master's grave-" Greyfriars Bobby? :)

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  5. Have enjoyed blog and photos - beats Essex!

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  6. Wonderful photos of a spectacular location and building, H. Such superb scenery and a truly atmospheric church. No wonder you love it.

    One of the parishes I was vicar of in Mid-Wales has a church on a shoulder of land above the valley of the river Severn and the walk down its steep churchyard path to the village gives an unforgettable view of the river and the hills.

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  7. I recently visited this wonderfull little church, it was sunrise one sunday,a lovely clear day and the sun was just peeping through the fluffy clouds, I got some lovely photographic images that I was very pleased with. An amazing place that I shall be visiting again and again.

    A place to remember and pray in the quietness of the moment, truly heavenly.

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    1. To be there at sunrise must have been spectacular!

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