WE ARE used today to the notion of “soft power” as part of world diplomacy. Gaelic Scotland in early times was no different. It wanted to project its influence and the Church was of immense importance in the process.

This tour will give you an understanding of the nature of that Church, the key players such as Brendan, Columba and Kentigern (St Mungo) and will visit the places most intimately associated with these profoundly influential religious figures. The interary will include Glasgow, Argyll and Iona and many other monastic sites scattered across the country from the western seaboard of Scotland to the east coast at St Andrews.

 

To help set the tone, you will have a chance to hear some of the early liturgical music and to read the original poetry of its scholars.

 

Fill my horizon

Lord of love

Still my eyes

On the King above.

 

Rop tú mo chathscíath,

rop tú mo chlaideb;

rop tussu m'ordan,

rop tussu m'airer.

 

Be my battleshield.

Be my sword.

Be my dignity.

Be my reward.