Sussex: Poor Clares' debut album reaches number one

Light for the World, the debut album of The Poor Clares of Arundel, in Sussex, released last month, has stormed up the charts, taking the number one spot in both the Classical Artist Album Chart and Classical Specialist Album Chart. The album features writings from St Clare and St Francis, set to music by composers James Morgan and Juliette Pochin. There are also some Latin hymns and medieval texts with a "unique 21st century production."

The sisters, who live in a rural community of 23 nuns, are used to singing the Daily Office eight times a day together - but this is the first time they have made a recording, and they were surprised at its success.

Speaking to Classic FM, Sister Gabriel Davison said they have felt quite overwhelmed by the response their album has had.

"It is a great joy for us to know that during this difficult time for so many, our music is helping people to cope with the stress and anxiety of daily life," she said. "The recording of our album, in our monastery chapel over a period of several months, was a great adventure which we entered into wholeheartedly.

"We hope that all who listen may find a sense of calm, peace and serenity which lies deep within each one of us."

Watch a short video about Light for the World here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=zs5rGW-RE38&feature=emb_logo

Read more about the Poor Clares of Arundel: www.poorclaresarundel.org/us

Buy the album here: www.poorclaresarundel.org/light-for-the-world