Scotland: 890th Anniversary of Melrose Abbey marked with historic Mass

Celebrants with representatives of the Cistercian Order, church leaders and local dignitaries

More than 300 people attended a special Mass on Friday, 21st August to celebrate the 890th Anniversary of the foundation of Melrose Abbey by the Cistercian Order.

Melrose Abbey is one of Scotland's most famous and historic Abbeys, the ruins (the Abbey was mostly destroyed by Henry VIII in the 'Rough-Wooing') are said to be the resting place of Robert the Bruce's heart.

The Mass, held in the grounds of the ruined Abbey, was organised by the local Catholic Parish of Our Lady & St Andrew (Galashiels, Melrose & Selkirk). It was attended by Catholics from across Scotland, clergy from around the United Kingdom with representatives of the Cistercian Order (based at Nunraw Abbey near Haddington, East Lothian), the Knights of Malta and Knights of St Columba, joined by Christians from other local denominations, as well as local dignitaries including local MP John Lamont.

Father Benedict Iwatt, Parish Priest and lead celebrant of the Mass commented: "The 890th Anniversary of the foundation of Melrose Abbey by the Cistercian Order is a truly auspicious occasion in the life of the parish of Our Lady & St Andrew. We as a parish know the importance of commemorating this occasion and the historical significance of the foundation of Melrose Abbey in the Christian life of the country and the Borders region.

"It is also a wonderful opportunity to connect and celebrate with our fellow Christian Churches in the Scottish Borders and beyond. As well as to raise the profile of our parishes to the wider Christian and non-Christian communities in the area. We thank Historic Environment Scotland for supporting this joyful event."

LINKS

Video highlights from the day: www.instagram.com/reel/DcYlCOSspXq/?igsi=czhieWdjZW53cmJ6
Parish of Our Lady & St Andrew - https://galacatholic.org
Melrose Abbey: www.historicenvironment.scot/visit/all/melrose-abbey/