So Sing a Song of Iona Iona is said to be a “thin” place where the Divine consumes one’s heart and soul with a vision of immense longing. This past month, I shared a journey into the mystery and history of this small island, a gem in the frigid waters of the Irish Sea, with six women sojourners, all seeking the divine feminine, the vera icona, “true image” of God.

So Sing a Song of Iona

pictured left to right: Jennifer Deaton, Becky Williams, Rwth Ashton

“So sing a song of Sarah, to laughter she gave birth; and sing a song to Tamar, who stood for women’s worth; and sing a song of Hannah, who bargained with her Lord; and sing a song of Mary, who bore and bred God’s Word.” (Iona Abbey Worship Book)

Iona is said to be a “thin” place where the Divine consumes one’s heart and soul with a vision of immense longing.  This past month, I shared a journey into the mystery and history of this small island, a gem in the frigid waters of the Irish Sea, with six women sojourners, all seeking the divine feminine, the vera icona, “true image” of God.

For nearly ten days, Jennifer Deaton, Rwth Ashton, Priscilla Pearson, Louise Dillon, Becky Williams, Patsy McCarty and I walked in the footsteps of many who have lived, worked and worshiped on Iona for over 6000 years.  We were nourished as we shared an agape feast each day in the ruins of the thirteenth century Benedictine Nunnery, and felt exhilarated by the presence of so many women, who for 800 years devoted themselves to a spiritual life of prayer and contemplation.

Although I mentioned there were seven of us, there was another pilgrim we carried. Her name was Rachel.  She was 21 years of age.  She and her mother had lived in Meridian, MS.  Rachel walked with us each day on the green fields and grassy meadows, the rock riddled shores, the juicy bogs, and the moorland abounding in heather.  It was Rachel’s request to return to Iona where she would be freed to embark beyond the thin vale that enshrouds Iona and continue her journey.  We gathered on the bank at St. Columba’s Bay and celebrated Rachel’s life.  Each of us poured Rachel’s ashes into the sea.  We paused in silence, listening to the rocks sing a capella as the sea bathed each brilliant colored stone now adorned with Rachel’s presence.  We were aware that in every smallest particle of matter, this utterly alluring gift of human compassion fuels our souls as we bear witness of the unveiled gift of life and glory.

“So sing a song of Anna, who saw Christ’s infant face; and sing a song of Martha, who gave him food and space; and sing of all the Marys, who heeded his requests, and now at heaven’s banquet, are Jesus’ fondest guests.” (Iona Abbey Worship Book)

 

Jennifer Deaton imposes ashes of Rebecca into the Irish Sea