Having been present at the inception of Saints in Revolt, I feel as though I have helped to bring this "child" to life and further its growth. It was also my pleasure to assist in the editing process and my honor to direct it's inaugural staging. Coming from a monastic background, and having a deep interest in the Age of Mysticism, the characters of Saints in Revolt are more than words on printed pages; they're real flesh and blood; acquaintances and friends; holy and dream-filled visionaries! Playwright, Coni Ciongoli-Koepfinger has brought together a powerful and interesting band, Hildegard, Joan of Arc, Bridget and Julian of Norwich as the sprit d-corps of this metaphysical revolution. Each woman in her own right has a claimed conflict with Thomas Acquinas, our antagonist. The playwright is blessed in weaving a plot of intrigue, love and faith against the oppressive forces of the Inquisition and sexism. In preparing to work with Saints, and, continuing through the rehearsal process, this piece opened itself to a rich, spiritual vitality, yet kept the calming presence of these powerfully centered mystics. No one involved with the project could walk away unchanged. This is my hope for every person ever experiencing Saints... That all leave committed to this ongoing revolution, and become inspired by its spirituous music of truth, as did most of its first audience, who joined in the wedding dance at the play's final scene. I am most grateful to Coni Ciongoli- Koepfinger for the opportunity to be involved with Saints in Revolt. It continuously touches my life. I humbly carry it in my heart and am empowered by it to strive to bring alive its message of love, freedom, faith and equality that these holy women were so inspired to be witnesses of so many centuries ago. And humbly, if I may, close with the passionate words of our beloved Hildegarde...
" Homo Immutabilis!" ....*END