THE HERMITAGE - MOUNT ALVERNIA

Not far from New Bight is the peak summit of the Bahamas. On this height called the Hermitage lies Father Jerome, of his real name John Hawes, who turned off at the age of 80 in 1956. His grave is seen as a very sacred place. This Anglican church, converted to Catholicism, traveled the world before settling in the Bahamas. He was built by two churches on Long Island Island, Saint Paul's and Saint-Peter-and-Saint-Paul, as well as the monastery of Saint Augustine in Nassau. After this activity of builder, he retired to Cat Island to live the last 17 years of his life as a hermit. He carved in stone the unequal steps that climb up the hill and lead to the summit of Mount Alvernia, and the 14 steps of the cross that punctuate him; Then he built the little monastery that crowned the summit with a conical chapel with a sharp roof, and the three modest pieces of housing that will serve her. There is still a oven and a well. The place is the theater of a very popular cross that takes place on Friday. We reach the site by a dirt road that starts near the Bight Police Office. After a slow rise in rocky terrain, which will require some effort in light of the heat (not forgetting a bottle of water), you can admire the magnificent view that offers a panorama at 360 ° on the ocean.