St. Conan (Mochonna), Bishop of Sodor and the Isle of Man
Saint Conan (/ˈkoʊnən/; 7th century – January 684) was a bishop of the Isle of Man and an Irish missionary.
The Bollandists regard St. Conan as one of the early bishops of Man, highlighting his notable zeal for the salvation of the souls in Manxland.
His Life
Saint Conan of Iona, also known as Mochonna, bishop of the Isle of Man and first bishop of Sodor, who shone forth as a missionary shepherd among the islands and western lands. Ηe was a prominent figure in early Christianity and is recognized as a holy man and teacher. Born in Ireland, he dedicated his life to spreading the teachings of Christ and nurturing the faith of those around him.
Saint Conan was a devout monk at the famous monastery of Iona, a spiritual center in medieval Scotland. Known for its religious scholarship and missionary work, the monastery attracted men seeking a deeper understanding of their faith. Conan was among the devoted individuals who devoted their lives to prayer, contemplation, and service to God.
During his time at Iona, Saint Conan was entrusted with the role of tutor to the son of King Eugene IV of Scotland, Findan. This position allowed him to influence the future rulers of the land, instilling in them the virtues of piety, justice, and mercy. His guidance played a crucial role in shaping their characters and preparing them for their future roles as kings.
Saint Conan was also a spiritual teacher of Saint Fiacre, a renowned saint who went on to establish hermitages and monasteries in France. Through his teachings and mentorship, Conan transmitted the wisdom and spiritual insights he had acquired, leaving a lasting impact on his disciples.
Recognized for his exceptional leadership and commitment to the faith, the successor of Saint Patrick in Armagh, who held jurisdiction in these regions, appointed Conan bishop of the Isle of Man, an island Saint Patrick himself had evangelised after being driven there by a storm in earlier days, and for which he provided bishops so that the people would not slip back into their former errors.
From Man, Saint Conan evangelised through the Hebrides and Scotland, continuing the apostolic mission in the “southern isles” called Sodor, and he is remembered as a zealous protector of souls.
He travelled as far as Loch Rannoch, and in his later life he settled in Glen Orchy, building his cell upon an island in Loch Awe, Inis-Chonain, where he reposed in 684.
Local memory also preserves the holy well associated with his name, and the enduring veneration shown to him even after the Reformation, with fairs and gatherings once held near his well and his island church.
Today, Saint Conan of Iona is remembered as a devoted servant of God, a tireless missionary, and a wise spiritual teacher. Saint Conan's life stands as an inspiration to all who seek a deeper relationship with God, demonstrating the transformative power of faith and the importance of sharing the Gospel.
Churches
St Conan's Kirk is located on the bank of Loch Awe in Argyll, it is next to Kilchurn Castle, the most important attraction of the area. It was commissioned and designed by Walter Douglas-Campbell at the end of the 19th century in the form of a multi-style chapel and finished at the start of the next century. Its design combines Norman, Gothic, Celtic and Saxon styles as well as some Stone Circle features. Usually, such a combination would look dreadful, but in the case of this building, it is working brilliantly, partially thanks to its location, between Ben Cruachan range towering over the church and Loch Awe which mirrors the chapel's silhouette.
The side of the church directed towards the mountains is relatively simple, in sombre Norman style with Gothic elements, while the lake-facing facade is an explosion of architectural decorative features of many styles. The inside of the church is also decorated in a similar, eclectic fashion with a mixture of styles and epochs, but thanks to the timeless stone masonry which serves as a background, it all looks incredibly attractive, and when you enter through the decorated Norman gate, you can feel you enter Medieval temple, not 19th-century folly. There is also a garden outside of the church which provides a lovely view of the lake-facing facade, the lake itself and Kilchurn Castle in the distance. If you travel using road A85 from central Scotland to Oban, it is really worth stopping for half an hour and exploring this incredible, scenic architectural marvel. The car park is rather small and can be busy at times.
Feast Day January 13th
Troparion — Tone 1
We celebrate thy radiant memory, all-honorable Hierarch Conan, consolation of the afflicted, teacher of the true faith and shepherd of souls on the Isle of Man. Pray for our efforts, feeble as they are, and save our souls.
Kontakion — Tone 4
You sailed the western seas as a herald of Christ, O Hierarch Conan, and you planted the Cross among the islands, uprooting the snares of the demons. Therefore your memory gladdens those who seek God, and we cry to you: intercede for us, that our souls may find mercy.
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