The Welcome of Iona

5/7/11

Got to Iona today. Almost missed my morning train, but the rest of the trip was rushed but smooth. No minute to breath.

When we got to the island they greeted us at the dock with vans to carry our bags and we walked through the ruins of the nunnery to the abbey. Already this place is amazing--takes my breath away. Even more beautiful than I could have imagined.

When we got to the Abbey they immediately escorted us through the courtyard to have "a spot of tea or coffee." I began chatting with the women around me at the table. They all are delightful and think I am "incredibly brave" to be here on my own. I don't know about that, but i do know I am glad to be here. We got a brief tour of the residential area and then when I went down to get my bag in the entryway, I heard a bagpipe playing. Upon stepping outside, I saw that they were having a wedding in the Abbey Church. We were able to watch the arrival of the bridesmaids and the bride. They are now in the church getting married as I write. In fact, sitting in my room now I can hear the service going on. My room looks out over the courtyard of the Abbey and onto the sanctuary. AMAZING.

While here so far, I have met two Anglican priests (women) from London. One of them was one of the first female Anglican priests EVER--ordained in 1994. She also is the vicar-in-residence for the Westminster Abbey 2 weeks every year. When we were all talking someone asked her, "Did you know the vicar that did cartwheels down the aisle." "Oh yes, Ben!" she said as if it were no big deal. We all had a laugh and agreed it was great.

My roommate, Karen, is another Presbyterian Associate Pastor from Oregon here on Sabbatical.

My room has a precious windowsill seat in which I have found my perch. I could sit here, staring out onto the courtyard for hours. There is such a calm in this place. After the hustle and bustle of trains, boats, and buses, it feels so good to be here. I am definitely a little tired, but trying to push through until after dinner at 6:30 and worship at 9. But, I'm pretty sure I will collapse after that.

I saw a great quote in the Sanctuary prayer corner: "Let those who would pry into the mysteries of the life of God realize how little they understand of the mystery of the life of an ant." Gregory of Nyssa. May God allow me the foolishness and humility to be a seeker of the mysteries.


This place is a gift to the world. I wish everyone could experience it.