St Columbanus
St. Columbanus was born in Leinster in 543. He studied at Cleenish on Lough Erne under Sinell and later at Bangor under the abbot Congall. It is rumoured that he decided to study to escape the attentions of some attractive females. His mother tried to prevent him from leaving home by blocking the doorway but he just stepped over her.
Around 590 he left Bangor with twelve monks and travelled through Britain to Burgundy where he founded monasteries in Annegray, Luxeuil, Fountaines and Bobbio where he is buried.
In 603, he had a dispute with the local bishops about the date of Easter and the lax morals of the French Royal family. He sought the intercession of the Pope to resolve his differences. As the local bishops feared that Columbanus and his followers were becoming too influential within the region he was driven out. Heading to Ireland his boat was driven back by a storm and he eventually arrived in Switzerland.
After a short period he fled to Northern Italy, where shortly before his death he established a monastery in 613at Bobbio.
Although Columbanus was impetuous and headstrong he had a great love for animals and is often portrayed with a dove on his left shoulder. He had a strong faith and was committed to the strict observance of his rule which included obedience to the words of your seniors and to humility.
He died on 21st November 615. His feast day is celebrated on 23rd November
“The story is recounted that Columbanus consulted a wise old woman who lived as a recluse. She warned him that if he wished to maintain his purpose of self-conquest he must leave and go to where girls are less beautiful and seductive than Ireland. “Save thyself, young man, and fly!” His resolution was formed; he decided on going away.
His mother attempted to deter him, prostrating herself on the threshold of the door; he stepped over her, left the province of Leinster
He heard incessantly the voice which had spoken to Abraham echoing in his ears, “Go out of thine own country, and from thy father’s house, into a land that I shall show thee.”
His Rule became the model for most religious orders
1. Of obedience
2. Of silence
3. Of food
4. Of poverty
5. Of humility
6. Of chastity
7. Of choir offices
8. Of discretion
9. Of mortification
