Light of a saint

SIR – I worship at Romsey Abbey and was saddened to read of others there taking exception to the picture of St Ethelflaeda (report, January 22).

Its beauty lies in the attitude and response of the saint. If my hands had suddenly and miraculously lit up I’d be waving them in the air, but Ethelflaeda thrusts hers downwards as if to hide them. She is humble and yet accepting. Her astonishment is clear because her hands seem suddenly huge to her and she’s nearly dropped the book and staff that she’s carrying, yet her face is calm and her gaze is cast down.

I invite people to work out the wonderful light for themselves; but remember that a candle dispelling darkness is a symbol much used in worship, and this candle has gone out. Tim Edmonds

Romsey, Hampshire