17 March 2025

Columba was born in Ireland probably in 521AD at Gerten, Co. Donegal. Both parents had aristocratic blood. He studied under two Finnians – the one at Moville, the other at Clonard. The former had been educated at Candida Casa, Whithorn! His education included literature and music because he was also taught by Gemman, a Leinster bard.

Columba was known by two other names. The first is Colum Cille which literally means ‘the dove of the church’. He is still known by this name in Ireland. He was a man of deep spirituality and great learning. He had a rare affinity with animals and a gentle attitude to others.

In addition, he was also called Crimthann which literally means ‘the fox’. And, of course, the fox is clever, cunning, fearless, untouchable. And so was Columba. He was proud, fearless in  battle, hasty to speak out for justice and right, a warrior as well as a peace-maker.

‘Behold, I send you out as sheep  in  the midst of wolves,’ says Jesus, ‘so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.’ If the servants of God were all dove and no fox, they would probably be so heavenly-minded as to be no earthly good!