The Soul Of Celtic Spirituality

Book Review.
Mitton, Michael. The Soul Of Celtic Spirituality. In the lives of its saints. Twenty-Third Publications. 1996.
M.M.- An Anglican priest. National director of Anglican Renewal Ministries. A long time researcher of Celtic spirituality.
Comment. Henry
The development of the Celtic church in Great Britain happened during the 4th to 7th century. Michael presents his understanding of that church as viewed through the practices and disciplines of its saints of that time period. He strongly recommends a return to some of those early teachings as part of renewal in churches today.
The Celts developed a ‘chord’ of faith made up of the following four strands; “justification by faith, worship and sacraments, justice and witness to the poor, and charismatic renewal”. (6) Numerous strands give strength to a chord.
Aiden, bishop of Lindisfarne, modeled authenticity, simplicity, and holiness. The Celtic church had a high regard for scripture. The childhood of Cuthbert of Melrose demonstrated how children were held in respect and included in the worship community. There are stories of mothers who would have visions of yet to be born children and their future in the leadership of the church.
Many of the saints carried on their ministries in monasteries. Celtic monasteries were known for their truly communal living. They had a high veneration for God’s creation that did not get into pantheism. Gifts of creativity were affirmed and encouraged. Celts were positive about death and enthusiastic about heaven.
Columbanus was an example of an evangelist. Healing and miracles were part of Celtic spirituality. In their communities gender equality was practiced. Brigid became the Abbess of Kildare. Patrick the evangelist was known for his prayer life. Prayer was encouraged as part of everyday life.
Celts were into visions and dreams that provided guidance and instruction. Spiritual warfare was accepted as part of spiritual life. The wild goose was chosen as the symbol of the Holy Spirit. The leading of the Holy Spirit could result in unlimited areas of spiritual change and adventure.
There is much that can be learned from Celtic spirituality that predates Reformation days.
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