Day 2 on Iona

As with most weather events I fret about, last night's 50 mph wind gusts never materialized. Or I slept through them. All the torrential downpours as well. 

Dinner at the hotel last evening featured pan-fried cod and nasturtium blooms. And a lot of sauces and veggies, but just new potatoes for me. I may be a picky eater. 

It was all delicious. 

Worship followed. An exquisite Communion service, led by a woman priest from the Church of Scotland.  

The bread and wine were passed from person to person, using the words each of uses in our own houses of worship, and in our own language. A medley and melody of words. 

Quite a stormy and windy walk back to the hotel. Clad in slickers and winter gear,  it was a great adventure. Howling winds our escort. 

This new day now brings rain, strong breezes, sunshine, clouds, and cappuccinos of course. 

Morning Prayer was a "leaving" service, as many who have been with the Iona Community for a time are now returning to their lives away from this place. 

From the "Iona Abbey Worship Book" these words this morning:

“Leader:

As Columba laid down his books

and the security of the monastery,

ALL:

SO WE LAY DOWN WHAT IS PAST

AND LOOK TO THE FUTURE.

Leader:

As Brigid, with a cross of rushes,

comforted a stranger,

ALL:

SO WE TAKE INTO DAILY LIFE

SIGNS OF HOPE AND HEALING.

Leader:

As Patrick travelled ever on,

as Margaret built community,

ALL:

SO WE REACH BEYOND OURSELVES,

TO SHARE THE LIVES OF OTHERS

AND TOUCH A WIDER WORLD.

As I go out into the small world of this place, and later to my larger world, I shall carry these words with me.