Archbishop of Cardiff shares video documenting remarkable lives of sisters of Mary Morning Star in Devon
The Archbishop of Cardiff -Menevia has shared a video documenting the remarkable lives of the Sisters of Mary Morning Star at their convent home in Lynton, North Devon. This contemplative community, welcomed to England by Archbishop Mark O’Toole during his time as Bishop of Plymouth, continues to be a source of inspiration and grace for all who encounter them.
The video captures the extraordinary story of divine providence that brought these sisters to their home. After four years searching for a permanent convent, facing the possibility of their UK mission being withdrawn, the sisters received an ultimatum: find a proper convent by September or the mission would close.
Their prayers were answered when Archishop Mark, then Bishop of Plymouth, offered them the former Poor Clare Monastery in Lynton. On the Feast of the Visitation, 31st May 2019, he showed them the beautiful stone building set into the hillside with spectacular views of the sea. As one sister reflects in the video: “Even before meeting them, I felt our lady had begun to hear our prayers.”
Voices of Transformation
The video features powerful testimonies from those whose lives have been touched by the sisters’ presence. Sister Mary Magdalen, a former oncology doctor, shares her journey from medicine to contemplative life: “I began to understand that there was actually something in life that was worse than cancer… there’s something that can kill our soul and that’s to live without the presence of God to live without faith and to live in sin”.
Local craftsmen speak of how their work at the convent has become more than a job. Terry, the heating engineer who restored their ancient boiler system, describes how the sisters’ prayers led to his wife’s pregnancy after years of trying. “I really believe they helped me to have a baby,” his wife shares.
A Building Renewed
The video documents the massive restoration project underway at the century-old convent. Local tradesmen, volunteers, and even Royal Marine Commandos have contributed to saving this beautiful building. As one craftsman explains whilst repairing the many windows: “It’s very good because it’s work for God… it’s for the right cause.”
The sisters faced overwhelming maintenance challenges, from failed heating systems to structural repairs. Yet help has come from unexpected sources, embodying what Bishop Mark describes as the “thin place” quality of Lynton, where heaven and earth seem to meet.
International Vocations
The video introduces sisters from across Europe who have found their calling at Lynton. Sister Johannes Maria, a former opera musician from Germany, speaks of recognising this as “my place” after years of searching. Sister Eve Mary from Hungary demonstrates the ancient art of icon painting, explaining how each layer moves “from the dark to the light.”
The Economy of Grace
Bishop Mark articulates the vital role of contemplative communities: “There is in the life of grace a whole other economy… because of what unites us in Christ, members of one body, one part of that body can support and strengthen the other parts.” He emphasises that contemplative communities are not merely nice to have, but essential for the life of the Church.
Living Prayer
The video captures the sisters’ daily rhythm of prayer, from their recitation of the Divine Office to their hours of Eucharistic Adoration. Their chapel becomes a place where locals and visitors alike find peace. As one sister explains: “As nuns, we are often compared to an army which is in the front row of the battle… our rosary is like our best weapons because it’s praying which enables us to conquer and to open the hearts of the people.”
A Witness to Joy
What emerges most powerfully from the video is the infectious joy of these young women who have given their lives entirely to God. Their witness challenges modern assumptions about religious life, showing how complete surrender to God leads not to limitation, but to profound fulfilment and happiness that radiates to all who encounter them.
The video offers an intimate glimpse into a way of life that might seem countercultural, yet proves deeply attractive to those seeking authentic meaning and purpose.
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