After the day of rest yesterday, today was divided between times of contemplation and discussion at Bishop’s House and a tour of the island of Iona—originally scheduled for Saturday but postponed because of the weather.
The tour was led by local guide Jana, who shared her vast knowledge of the history of the island, going back to its geological foundations, the arrival of St. Columba in the 6th century and the establishment of both the Abbey and a Nunnery as the island became a place of pilgrimage.
Our first visit was to the ruins of the Nunnery. We were encouraged to imagine the lives of the relatively small group of women who lived, worked, and worshipped together. One sensed their presence.
From there, we walked to the Abbey. Along the way, we passed a sign about the Rev. George McDonald, founder of the Iona Society; parishioner Zara Harris is a direct descendant. A Holy Comforter connection on Iona!
The Benedictine Abbey is on the site of where St. Columba first set up a place of worship on the island. In the centuries since then, it has undergone numerous changes, growing in size over the years. We felt at one with the many pilgrims who have made pilgrimages here over the years. We will be attending a service there later in the week.
Another wonderful day on this fascinating island!
–Norma Williamson