Chapter 1: The Beginnings of Iona Abbey
* The chapter traces the origins of Iona Abbey, founded by St. Columba in 563 AD.
* It describes Columba's missionary work in Scotland and Ireland, and his establishment of a monastic community on Iona.
* Examples: The foundation stone of the monastery, archaeological evidence of early structures.
Chapter 2: The Rule of Columba
* This chapter examines the unique monastic rule established by Columba.
* It includes details on the daily routine, spiritual practices, and community organization.
* Examples: The Rule of Columba, preserved in the Book of Kells, outlining communal meals, prayer, and penance.
Chapter 3: Liturgical Practices at Iona
* The chapter explores the liturgical practices followed at Iona Abbey.
* It discusses the daily services, sacraments, and special feasts.
* Examples: The Iona Collect, a prayer used during Mass, and the description of the Easter Vigil in the Iona Psalter.
Chapter 4: The Iona Psalter and Other Manuscripts
* This chapter examines the Iona Psalter and other illuminated manuscripts produced at the abbey.
* It highlights the artistic and theological significance of these works.
* Examples: The Iona Psalter, containing beautiful illustrations and Celtic ornamentation, and the Book of the Dun Cow, a later collection of Irish legends and lore.
Chapter 5: The Influence of Iona
* The chapter discusses the far-reaching influence of Iona Abbey on Christian thought and practice.
* It traces the spread of Columban monasticism throughout Scotland and Ireland.
* Examples: Missions to mainland Scotland, including the foundation of Lindisfarne Abbey, and the spread of Celtic Christianity to France and Switzerland.
Chapter 6: The Viking Raids and the Decline of Iona
* This chapter describes the impact of Viking raids on Iona Abbey in the 8th and 9th centuries.
* It recounts the destruction of buildings, the dispersal of the community, and the eventual decline of the abbey's prominence.
* Examples: Archaeological evidence of burnt structures, and historical accounts of Viking attacks.
Chapter 7: The Benedictine Revival and the Later Middle Ages
* The chapter examines the revival of Iona Abbey under Benedictine rule in the 11th century.
* It describes the construction of a new monastery, the introduction of Roman Catholic practices, and the abbey's continued role as a center of pilgrimage.
* Examples: The ruins of the Benedictine monastery, and the medieval pilgrimage route to Iona.
Chapter 8: The Reformation and the Suppression of Iona Abbey
* This chapter discusses the impact of the Protestant Reformation on Iona Abbey.
* It describes the suppression of the monastery in 1560 and the subsequent decline of its religious significance.
* Examples: The Act of Supremacy, which dissolved the Scottish monasteries, and the abandonment of the abbey buildings.
Chapter 9: The Modern Revival of Iona
* The chapter traces the 19th-century revival of interest in Iona Abbey and its legacy.
* It describes the restoration of the site, the establishment of a new ecumenical community, and the abbey's renewed role as a spiritual center.
* Examples: The Iona Cathedral, built in 1899, and the Iona Community, founded in 1938.
