This is subtitled "A Reminder of the Christianity We Lost" and looks at the roots of the Celtic version of Christianity; what influenced these early Christians and how they lived their lives. Linking to Druidism and the desert dwelling Coptic Christians, Celtic Christianity developed in a way close to nature and the community; unlike the more dictatorial, hierarchical Roman church. The differences finally led to the Council of Whitby in 664 AD, where King Oswy of Northumbria decided in favour of the Roman church.

Shirley Toulson looks at the links between the old Druidic religion and the Christianity that was heavily influenced by the old way of life. Taking over the sacred sites and wells in some ways this was a continuation of the old not a usurpation. Inspired by pilgrimages to Jerusalem and into Egypt where the early Christians were living as hermits and setting up the first monastic settlements the Celtic Christians were inspired to echo this way of life.

From this Toulson draws comparisons between modern life and its need for a spiritual dimension. In some ways she has idealised this early form of Christianity but does show that some aspects of their lifestyle can be used today to create a more community orientated, sustainable lifestyle. A life in tune with nature.

I don't regret reading this but to be honest this isn't quite the book I was expecting to read. I was looking for a more historical explanation of the Celtic Church - its development and influences. That is there but in places Toulson's agenda and idealism is too dominant. ( )