Chilworth's Camellias symbolise undying, eternal love
29 March 2023
As seen flowering today in our monastic garden
Camellias grow in our garden here at St Augustine's Abbey, Chilworth as shown in the photographs here. Fr John learned today that the flower was named after the Jesuit botanist, Father Georg Joseph Kamel. He practised botany in the 1600s for healing remedies.
Why have two varieties of Camellias been planted here at Chilworth in the past?
Well, maybe the answer lies in the unique nature of the Camellia.
When any flower dies the petals and calyx separate. But with the Camellia petals and calyx fall away together.
Therefore, the Camellia symbolises undying, eternal love.
Which beautifully speaks of Christ's love for us.
+ + +
Thanks to Independent Catholic News for publishing this story here.
Visit your local active Benedictine monastery
Sources of further information for the casual to more serious discerner
Please share our story - thank you
Starting on 6 September 2025 with Sheila Longman
Saturday 19 July 2025 at St Augustine's Abbey, Chilworth
Sunday Mass is at 10am, weekday Mass is at 9am. Join the monks in prayer.
Thursday 25 September 2025, 7.30pm to 9.15pm at St Augustine's Abbey, Chilworth. £10 per person. Book now.
Drop in to our weekly lay ecumenical meditation group.
Sat 6 September 2025, 10am-12noon. £10 per person. Deepen your understanding of Indigenous traditions and spirituality.