Much of Celtic spirituality has revolved around designs, artwork and various other mediums. It is usually easy to identify a work of Celtic art because of it’s unique characteristics.
These symbols included combining religious symbols with overlays and other geometric shapes. The designs are usually very ornate and detailed. One of the most famous examples of Celtic artwork is the Book of Kells. This book originated in an ancient monastery and much of the book contains detailed calligraphy and great depictions of insular art.
In this time of the year where we will be celebrating a holiday like Thanksgiving in the U.S., it is crucial to identify what the Celtic Christians did and how it is so related to this holiday. These Christians were martyrs because they were willing to leave their homes and families behind all in the sake of their religious convictions. In a sense, they were a very early form of pilgrim.
It is in fact part of many religious cultures to continue to take pilgrimages, even today. The core belief is that one does not want to leave their past behind and therefore believers encourage each other to take pilgrimages as an expression of their never-ending devotion.
This pendant would be a perfect cross to wear on a spiritual journey. It combines a Celtic knot with a cross using both the elements of silver and gold. Central to the pendant is a diamond sitting atop a gold circle. This is known as the “sun” of the cross.
People from all over the world go to Ireland to complete a spiritual journey that resonates inside of them. Most believe that the Celts connection to God and spirituality is worth being sought out in person. This country is unique because the method in which Christianity was brought to the Celts was fraught with much violence and personal anguish.
One item that can be seen on such a trip could be the high crosses of Ireland which are a eternal example of Celtic art. These crosses have survived hundreds of years of wear and tear and many see this strength as proof of their convictions in spiritual power.
A pilgrimage doesn’t necessarily need to be made in person. It can be one that is just spiritually based and in the mind. If you are brave enough to try this, it is recommended to go to a “thin” place. These places are considered “thin” probably because it is where one would feel most connected to the spiritual world. Good examples would be a church where one went through something important, a place where one survived or saw a miracle take place or even a cemetery that is personally relevant. While there, it is not a requirement to create something like the Book of Kells or a high cross. Just start simply by creating whatever comes to you in that special place.
It is worth noting that the Celts were heavily embedded in the communities where they lived. For those of you wanting to embark on a deeper spiritual understanding, it is encouraged to get in touch with your community and celebrate the uniqueness about it.
