· 7 Nights accommodations at the St. Columba Inn
· Breakfast and dinner daily
· Transportation to and from Glasgow airport
· Daily worship with the Iona community in the historic abbey
· Daily informal group discussions led by Rev. Susan Izard
· Daily walks on the island of Iona led by Dr. Scott Bailey
· Daily Yoga practice led by Nancy C Murray
Rev. Susan Izard is the Minister of Spiritual Life at First Church of Christ Congregational in West Hartford, CT. where she divides her time between ministry with the church and offering individual spiritual direction. She is particularly interested in spiritual growth and renewal, offering opportunities for people to explore a variety of spiritual and prayer experiences through creative worship, pilgrimages, retreats, workshops and book discussions. Over the years, Susan has lead six pilgrimages to Iona. She will be guiding us daily in personal and group reflection as we encounter the spiritual gifts of Iona.
Dr. Scott Bailey began collecting pebbles as soon as he was old enough to wear pants with pockets. This eventually lead to a career as a research geologist, where he specializes studying how water-rock interactions influence soil development and the structure of ecosystems. Iona is an unparalleled location for pondering rocks and the evolution of earth, with rocks of nearly every color, mode of origin, and ranging in age over most of the existence of Earth. Scott will guide us on hikes around Iona and conversations about the geological wonder of the Isle.
Nancy C Murray, E-RYT 500, YACEP® is a certified Kripalu yoga teacher and a professional level Pranakriya Yoga teacher. She teaches weekly classes at First Churchand day and weekend workshops. Nancy’s style of teaching is designed to remind people of their inner radiance. She will be guiding us in daily yoga practice, both planned and spontaneous, designed to connect us deeply to ourselves and the energy of Iona.
The walking elements of this trip will be very rugged and physically demanding. We will be walking in wilderness. While there is no requirement that you participate in every element of the trip, you will need to be strong and physically fit to stay with the group during the day. Sturdy hiking boots and appropriate outdoor gear are required for those interested in joining the day hikes.
Some days, whether by your choice, health or as dictated by weather, you may not venture out on a walk. These will become unplanned days for quiet reflection. Iona is not a tourist destination, so there are few indoor amusements. Please plan accordingly.
Actvities offered on the Isle for an additional fee include:
· 1/2 day trip to Staffa
· tour of Abbey with Historic Scotland guide
A limited number of singles are available for an additional charge of $300.
When booking your flights, please consider arriving at least a day before our departure from Glasgow and departing the day after we leave from Iona. If you miss the group transportation from Glasgow, you will be responsible for getting yourself to Iona and we will not be held responsible for your missing a flight on the return. The trip from Glasgow is long and requires a number of transfers.
A deposit of $500 is required for registration. This deposit will be refundable until June 1, 2017. $700 is due by June 1, 2017 and the remainder due by November 1, 2017. Any payments made after June 1, 2017 will be non refundable. Travel insurance is recommended.
Proof of health insurance valid in Scotland will be required
