St. Angus
St. Angus was sent to Balquhidder, Perthshire, Scotland, by St. Blane of Dunblane. Angus most likely preached at Dunblane first. It is not certain which century Angus preached in Balquhidder at Balquhidder Glen. Guesses range from the 7th through 9th century. The Glen was what the Celts called a thin place. This was a place where Earth and Heaven are very close. Angus knelt and blessed the Glen and built a stone oratory at Kirkton.
When St. Angus came to Balquhidder, there was already a long tradition of Pagan worship. Angus spent most of his life in Kirkton, and is buried near the kirk where the Hill of Fire stood. This hill was the place where fires were lit to celebrate Beltane and Samhaim. This practice continued in the Balquidder area up to the 19th century.
Angus preached on a hillock (Tom Aonghais) near the old manse. In the present churchyard, one can still view the stone (Clach Aonghais) that once covered Angus' grave. St Angus Day is celebrated on the first Wednesday after the first Tuesday in August. The service is still held in a combination of Gaelic and English.
Angus is buried at the foot of this hi;; and the flagstone that once lay over him, today stands inside the church. An incised figure holds a chalice known as the Cup of Salvation.
Written and researched by Margaret Odrowaz-Sypniewska, B.F.A.
© 1997 AuchterMay1@aol.com