Monumental Change

The final article had already been written, as I thought (See Note 1), and this book was almost complete. Then one evening I decided to go for a walk. Tyndale's monument stands at a viewpoint on the western end of the Cotswolds overlooking the Severn estuary. It is a beautiful spot. I had seen the obelisk there from a distance, I knew who it commemorated and I decided to make it the goal for my walk.

Tyndale was a brave scholar who was condemned to death for no more evil an activity than translating the Bible. What a sick comment that is on the church of his day. I have admired him for years, but it is quite some time since I had cause to remember him. Seeing his memorial brought back what I had learnt about him and gave me an idea for one more piece for this collection of essays. Like hosts of people through the ages, Tyndale stood up for the right to ask difficult questions and to find different answers than he was expected to by the authorities of his day. By seeking the truth he risked being called a heretic.

The walk was enjoyable - sunny evening, lovely views, stiff climb through fresh smelling woodlands, and then the monument. It is impressive, though not attractive, but it set me thinking. When I got back to my hotel I sat and wrote my "Letter to Tyndale" … (See Note 2)

©Derrick Phillips
September 2001