In Search of Angels: Travels to the Edge of the World

Alistair Moffat explores the lives of Irish saints who came to the Hebrides and Scotlands Atlantic shore fourteen centuries ago, seeking solitude and a closer understanding of God. He finds traces of their lives in the spirit of the islands and remote places, and in the Gaelic language and traditions they brought.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 08 October 2020
Publisher: Birlinn General

Longlisted for The Highland Book Prize 2020, this captivating book delves into the remarkable tales of Irish saints who ventured to the Hebrides and Scotlands Atlantic coast fourteen centuries ago. These courageous men, known as the 'white martyrs,' sought seclusion, isolation, and even harsh conditions in remote places away from the world, where they could engage in intense fasting, prayer, and spiritual pursuits. Their primary goal was to cultivate a deeper understanding of God and to witness angels. Among these remarkable figures, Columba, the founder of the renowned monastery at Iona, stands out as the most well-known. However, the many other saints who followed in their footsteps have largely been forgotten by history.

In his captivating book, Alistair Moffat embarks on a journey from the island of Eileach an Naoimh, situated at the mouth of the Firth of Lorne, to Lismore, Iona, and then further north to Applecross. His mission is to trace the footsteps of these extraordinary men and uncover the remnants of their lives. While tangible remains are not often found, Moffat discovers their spirit in the islands and remote locations where they lived their exemplary lives. The Gaelic language, infused with the echoes of how the saints perceived their world, can still be heard in the cadences of the language. The tradition of great piety, which these saints cultivated, endures to this day.

This captivating book offers a profound exploration of the lives and legacies of these Irish saints, shedding light on their unwavering devotion and their profound impact on the cultural and spiritual landscape of the region. It serves as a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the indomitable spirit of those who sought to connect with the divine in the face of adversity.

Weight: 610g
Dimension: 163 x 243 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781780276724