The Hermitage

Our main goal in visiting Cat Island was to make it to The Hermitage.  It is one of the most interesting attractions on the Island.  It is located just outside of New Bight, atop of Mt. Alvernia (also known at Como Hill, the highest point in the Bahamas - 206 ft above sea level)

In summary, Right Reverend Monsignor John Hawes (1876-1956) was an architect and priest.  After retiring he was given permission to live on Cat Island as a hermit and was commonly known as Father Jerome.  In 1940 he began construction of The Hermitage, a miniature replica of a European Franciscan Monastery.  Father Jerome built the entire structure himself out of native rock, including the Stations of the Cross.  He chose the location so he could look over to the east and see the Atlantic Ocean and also to the west where he could gaze upon the emerald waters of the Bahamas Banks.  He was buried at his request under the monastery. Incidentally Fr Jerome is the same man that built the churches in Clarence Town, Long Island too.

Words do not do justice to what we saw.  We hope you enjoy and feel the awe we  felt during our visit.

 

On the climb up we came to the Stations of the Cross.

The Hermitage……

I climbed the ladder to ring the bell.

Looking north

Looking west

What time is it?

The well

The bell tower

An overall view

The Chapel

We think:  "Praise to the Father for the moon & stars"

The Chapel entrance

The kitchen/oven building

Looking inside the bakery