ona is a small island about 5 miles long just off the western coast of Scotland. It was here that St Columba came from Ireland to set up a Christian church to use as a base for his missionary journeys in Scotland. He died in 597 and is buried on the island. It became a well-known holy place, and many Scottish kings and noblemen were buried there. An abbey was built in the Middle Ages, where a group of Benedictine monks lived. It later fell into disrepair. The Iona Community restored the Abbey during the 20th century. They have established a Christian community on the island which welcomes people to stay, and offers them the 'Iona Experience' - friendship, worship, relaxation and social events. The Pilgrim's Way journeyed through Iona on Saturday 7th June, when there was a special service and musical event.

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