Iona Pilgrimages

[Iona’s White Strand of the Monks– courtesy of Margaret Woodson Nea]

The Isle of Iona in Scotland is a place of pilgrimage for hundreds of thousands of men and women every year, seeking new beginnings in their lives and peace for the world.

[Abbey Cloisters Iona – courtesy of Margaret Woodson Nea]

Pilgrimage Weeks in 2011

‘Pilgrimage for Change’ led by John Philip Newell & Ali Newell

Pilgrimage weeks on Iona for individuals and for groups seeking personal transformation and new birthings in our lives and world.

*9 – 16 April (*especially designed for young adults under forty)
11 – 18 June
10 – 17 September

For booking and more information about pilgrimage weeks with John Philip Newell, contact the St Columba Hotel www.stcolumba-hotel.co.uk

[Sound of Iona from St Columba Hotel – courtesy of Richard Herman]

The Pattern of Iona Pilgrimage Weeks

Each day begins and ends with the rhythm of prayer and meditation together, either at the Abbey or elsewhere on the island. The mornings are given to teaching and sharing, and the afternoons to silence and hiking. On at least one of the days we walk the island pilgrimage route together to reflect on the journey of our lives and world. Wholesome breakfasts and evening meals, with provision from the organic gardens of the hotel, are an important part of our community life together.

[Storm off Iona– courtesy of Ali Newell]

May the deep blessings of earth be with us.
May the fathomless soundings of seas surge in our soul.
May boundless stretches of the universe echo in our depths
to open us to wonder
to strengthen us for love
to humble us with gratitude
that we may find ourselves in one another
that we may lose ourselves in gladness
that we give ourselves to peace.

(from JPN's forthcoming title, Praying with the Earth)