In the early years of the 17th century, hardly any Catholic priests were left in Scotland, the country was Protestant to its core and the old religion nearly wiped out. Nearly but not completely. Those few who had kept their faith, had to practice their religion secretly after the reformation. In areas where a few... Continue Reading →
a faith so strong
A faith so strong urged them to leave Ireland and bring it to those who knew nothing of it. The early missionaries brought the Christian faith not only to Scotland but via Scotland to Europe. A mission like no other in the 7th century. Columba went to Iona to found a monastery that turned into... Continue Reading →
the snake, the saint and the power of healing
The sun seems to shine more golden and bright along Loch Long, one of the beauty spots of Kintail. It has a quiet and peaceful feel to it. An old single track road leads along the shores of Loch Long towards Camus Luinie. To visit the graveyard of Kililan one needs to access a large... Continue Reading →
graveyard of the kings
If ever there was holy ground, it surely is to be found on a small island of striking beauty and breathtaking light in the Ross of Mull: Iona, burial-place of the kings. To many Iona is an overcoming experience. It was here that Christianity made its way into Scotland. Irish monasteries have existed for centuries... Continue Reading →
Burn the church!
“Bar the door and burn the church down.” murmured the MacDonald through the sound of singing, that oozed through the walls of the little church. The sun was out, the wind forcefully as ever, making the long haired raiders look even more fierce. They held their weapons ready, at the back of the church, away... Continue Reading →
Eilean Munde – graveyard island
Near the shores of Loch Leven, close to the road up towards Glencoe rises a small island out of the cold tidal waters. On a sunny day in summer the lush grass smells of herbs, the rough song of the crickets creates a somehow Italian atmosphere. No bridge or ferry connects the island full of... Continue Reading →
to ward off evil spirits
Rowan trees, guardians against evil. Some say the devil hanged his mother on one. The lore of old knows the tree's power of protection, warding off the witches. The fear must have been great in Cannich, where the old graveyard lies open, surounded by vast blank fields for grazing. No house in sight. No church... Continue Reading →
John Knox monument, Glasgow Necropolis Set in stern stone against a bleak winter sky seems a most appropriate form of existence for a man like John Knox. If one is willing to attribute an existence to a monument. His monumental influence on religion is Scotland is widely known. As well as his fear and abhorence... Continue Reading →



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