"The early Christians of Ireland developed an expression of the faith
characterized by deep devotion and fascinating stories," Newman said.
"It offers rich insights for modern issues such as promoting a caring
society, relating to the natural world and welcoming strangers."
Writers often use the metaphor of journey or pilgrimage to describe
the Christian life. What distinguishes this book and its development of
that theme is its invitation to readers to experience their personal
faith journeys through Celtic lenses. Pilgrimage is part of the DNA of
Celtic Christians. The faith spread and flourished in Ireland, Scotland,
Wales, and Northern England between the 5th and 11th centuries because
saints like Patrick, Brigid, and Columba traveled extensively,
preaching, teaching, and founding monasteries. Soon small groups of
Christians began to go out from these locations and begin new Christian
communities.
By connecting historical information with their
current lives and concerns, readers will be encouraged to consider the
many ways pilgrimage has shaped their personal faith. They will discover
the value and contributions of fellow travelers on the faith journey
and how they assist and shape that journey. By recalling how Celtic
Christians celebrated and marked significant moments in their lives of
faith, readers will discover ways they can develop this practice. They
will affirm the importance of both offering and receiving hospitality on
the faith journey, a discipline that was critical to the Celts. They
will also have opportunities to deal with difficult life journeys such
as transitions and opportunities for forgiveness, and the importance of
blessing one another in a world that values polarization over
cooperation and competition over community. With an introduction that
sets the tone and introduces the theme and six chapters related to
distinctives of Celtic Christianity, this book is ideal for small groups
whose members want to grow together in their spiritual understandings
and commitments.
The Leader Guide is designed to help lead small groups. It includes
questions for reflection and additional prompts aimed to guide both
personal contemplation and group discussion.