June 9

Reading

After he established a number of monasteries and churches in his native Ireland, Saint Columba founded the renowned monastery of Iona, off the coast of Scotland. Having guided many in the path of salvation, reposed in peace in 597.

Apolytikion of Righteous Father Columba of Iona

Third Tone

A fearless accuser of sin and avenger of the injured, thou in repentance didst accept exile in a distant land, keeping the strait and afflicted path of obedience in the monastic rule. Thou didst cast the cloak of love over the failings of the feeble. A lover of chant, thou didst rejoice in the creation, whilst hymning the Creator, and didst command thy followers to be at peace and have love among themselves, O gracious Columba.

Kontakion of Righteous Father Columba of Iona

Plagal of the Fourth Tone

O Thou prince of Celts and founder of monasteries, in obedience to the revelation of the Archangel Michael, thou didst endure exile and in so doing didst carry the Faith to the unenlightened. As one who received the grace of illumination by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that the hearts of us sinners may be purified by His radiance. Intercede thou that peace may rule throughout thy land and the whole world, and forget not thine erring children, O holy Father Columba