Columbanus
The Earliest Christian Voice of Christian Ireland
by Kate Tristram
GoodBookStall Review:
This is an affectionate and lucid account of the life of a man of God set in the context of sixth century Christendom. From his writings and those of others we learn something of his deep spirituality, his wisdom and his gentle exhortations. We also get a glimpse of his charismatic personality and strong determination. In particular his hagiographer, Jonas, points to the fact that his influence and many of the elements of his “Monastic Rule” continued long after his death largely due to the loyalty and dedication of his followers. The author, a historian of the early Celtic church, now living in Lindisfarne, is generous in sharing with us much of her considerable knowledge and scholarship. This gives us a book that is both a pleasure and a privilege to read.
Reviewer: Alexandra Irvine (29/06/10)
This is an affectionate and lucid account of the life of a man of God set in the context of sixth century Christendom. From his writings and those of others we learn something of his deep spirituality, his wisdom and his gentle exhortations. We also get a glimpse of his charismatic personality and strong determination. In particular his hagiographer, Jonas, points to the fact that his influence and many of the elements of his “Monastic Rule” continued long after his death largely due to the loyalty and dedication of his followers. The author, a historian of the early Celtic church, now living in Lindisfarne, is generous in sharing with us much of her considerable knowledge and scholarship. This gives us a book that is both a pleasure and a privilege to read.
Reviewer: Alexandra Irvine (29/06/10)
