I approached my week at the Abbey wondering how I would fit in. Now I look back at all our activities together and see glimpses of myself. One of the things I'd looked forward to was our pilgrimage across the island to places of historical and religious significance. We all dressed in waterproofs and hiking … Continue reading Walk Across Iona
pilgrimage to Iona
Packing Grandma for Pilgrimage
When I was a girl, my only grandparent was Ola Gilchrist Smith who was my mother’s mother. She lived on a farm about twenty miles from my house and was a pillar of her small church-- Cedar Rock Presbyterian in Harnett County, North Carolina. There are lots of Presbyterian churches in that area where Highland … Continue reading Packing Grandma for Pilgrimage
Traveling Light
Before my journey to Iona, I’ll spend time traveling with my husband, David. Our trip together will celebrate being a couple for forty years-- thirty-nine of those married. When I take the train from Edinburgh west to Oban, he’ll head to the airport for his flight home. In a way, I’ll be packing for two … Continue reading Traveling Light
Pilgrimage: Invitation to the Unknown
Pilgrimage is an invitation to the unknown. This year on my solo journey to Iona, Scotland, I’ll be going to an ancient pilgrimage site. I’ve reserved my week at the Abbey where I’ll live in an international community of staff and guests. My information sheet gives me some idea of what it’ll be like; it’s … Continue reading Pilgrimage: Invitation to the Unknown
Scotland Calling
In one month, I’ll take off on my yearly solo journey. This time Scotland is calling me to the ancient and sacred island of Iona located in the Inner Hebrides. Ten years ago, the seed was planted when I was in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. Riding the island shuttle bus, I met a man from Glasgow … Continue reading Scotland Calling
Connie Rosser Riddle 