Scotland Photos

Hi Everyone,

I've got the new photos downloaded from the camera, so now it's time to share a few of the pictures. First, two from Iona Abbey, on the Isle of Iona in Scotland.

The photo on the left is of the Iona Abbey, with the oldest portions of the walls dating to the 13th century. The large section on the right is the Abbey Church, where we had our worship at 9:00am and 9:00pm each day. The larger section to the left includes the refectory, where we ate our meals together. Behind the refectory on the far left is the Abbott's House, where we had dorms, and where I slept with 5 other pastors (who sometimes snored antiphonally!). Between the refectory and the Abbey Church is a small chapel, St. Columba's Shrine, which is one of the oldest sections of the Abbey, with the stones in the lower section dating back to the 9th century. The photo on the right is of the Abbey Church, viewed from just inside the front door. In the foreground is the baptismal font, with a section of chairs behind it. The far end of the Abbey Church has the altar, with the choir seating in front of it.

There were many other ancient ruins on the island,and a number of standing crosses. The cross on the left is St. Martin's cross, the oldest on the island, dating to between AD 750-800. The photo on the right is of the ruins of the Iona Nunnery, which was built around 1200. It has not been restored.

While at Iona, we made a boat trip to the Isle of Staffa. On the left is a view that includes Fingal's Cave (on the right) and shows the basalt columns that are found only here and at Giant's Causeway in Ireland. On the right is a puffin, the small bird that finds protection from their mortal enemies, the seagulls, at the feet of people -- perhaps a parable of our protection from our enemies at the feet of God.

One of the most impressive parts of the trip to Scotland was worshiping in St. Giles' Cathedral (Church of Scotland) in Edinburgh on Sunday morning. The building was magnificent, and the worship was beautiful. It was a high liturgy with the Edinburgh University Chamber Choir singing and the Lord's Supper celebrated. It moved me deeply.

And finally, a few fun items -- first, a photo of yours truly in front of the gate to Edinburgh Castle. And second, a bagpiper -- what could be more appropriate to end the photos of Scotland?