Saint Columba

Saint Columba was an Irishman, but his greater fame belongs to Scotland. He was born in Northern Ireland about the year 520, and his parents were of royal descent. His name Columba - means a dove. Later he was known as Columcille, because, says Bede, of the numerous monastic cells that he founded. As a boy he was hardy and active, but loved to be alone and think. He wished to become a priest.

His parents approved and he was duly sent to a series of monastic schools. There he acquired and developed a great love of books and manuscripts, learned something of the art of lettering and illuminating, and prepared for ordination.

Just why Columba left Ireland is not clear. It could have been simple missionary zeal, of which the saint had plenty, but it could also have been remorse. The son of one of the tribal kings was killed. The offender fled to Columba for protection. Despite this, the High King's men seized the man and put him to death. Columba was angry and called his own clan to arms. A fierce battle was fought, many me were slain, and Columba was stricken with sorrow. In penitence, it is said; he resolved to go as a missionary to Scotland.

On the island of Iona of the west coast of Scotland he settled with a few companions. From Iona they set out to convert, and minister to, the people in those parts as yet untouched by Christianity. They encountered many difficulties, but had many successes. Far and wide in Scotland churches and monasteries were established, and Columba, now a bishop, trained and ordained the men to serve them. Steadily Columba's reputation grew. He was consulted even by kings. Occasionally he went back to Ireland, but Iona was now his home, and at Iona he eventually died.

Blessed Mary MacKillop

For the complete story of Blessed Mary MacKillop please visit the Sisters of Saint Joseph web site.