To mark International Peace Day on Sunday 21st of September 2025, the Friends of Columbanus Bangor organised a walk for members along the route of the Columban Way from Helen’s Bay to Bangor Abbey. At Strickland’s Glen the group stopped to reflect on the words of Columbanus whose writings are as relevant today as they were in the 6th Century.
“Kindle our lamps, so that our personal darkness and the world’s
Columbanus Sermon 12
may be driven away”
Columbanus was a poet, scholar, abbot and founder of a string of monasteries across mainland Europe. He spent around twenty years of his life in the monastic community in Bangor before setting out on his pilgrimage journey.
“Whether we are Franks, Irish or Britons or whatever culture, we are
Columbanus LETTER TO French Bishops
members of one body.”
After the walk participants enjoyed refreshments and delicious home baking in the Bangor Abbey Parish Centre. Deborah Girvan, Chairperson, gave a comprehensive presentation on the work and activities of the charity including the European dimension. Emma Coulter, European Officer, outlined the educational links she is forging between students from Bangor Academy and students in the Bobbio area in Italy and Luxeuil-les-Bains in France. Exchange visits have taken place and further visits are planned.
We are guests in this world, not just travellers but pilgrims
Columbanus Sermon 12