The earliest form of organised Christianity on the Isle of man was begun with the building of keeills: tiny chapels established by the first missionaries to the Isle of Man. The missionaries are believed to have arrived from Ireland during the fifth and sixth centuries to convert the islanders. These early Christians built the keeills as a focal point for worship, to serve the local area.
St Patricks Isle, Isle of Man
The keeill system continued on the island until formalised parishes were developed during the twelfth century. The Christian population of the island faced a particular challenge to their faith during the tenth century, when Vikings began to raid the island, eventually settling and establishing a fort on St Patrick’s isle, just off the mainland.
The isle already had several centuries of Christian history when the Vikings chose it as a site for their fort. It was reputed to be the site where St Patrick arrived from Ireland to convert the Manx people to Christianity.
Celtic Crosses on the Isle of Man
One of the most powerful symbols of religion on the Isle of Man are the carved Celtic crosses, of which more than two hundred survive today. Many bear the simple carving of a cross and others feature more intricate designs, some carved by Christian Vikings.
The Cistercian Order on the Isle of Man
The twelfth century saw the arrival of the Cistercian Order to the Isle of Man and the creation of Rushen Abbey, the island’s finest and most complete historical religious site. The land for the abbey was granted to Abbot Ivo of Furness in 1134, by King Olaf I of the Isle of Man.
The first monks to inhabit the new monastic site travelled from Furness, Cumbria, and local men were recruited during the following years. The community was originally part of the Order of Savigny but became Cistercian eleven years after its foundation.
The abbey was well regarded by the rulers of the island and three Kings of Man were buried in the grounds; Olaf II, Reginald II and King Magnus. The abbey was pillaged by Irish raiders in 1316 and the abbey was ruined.
Over the centuries, many of the island’s finest religious buildings fell into disrepair and stones were stolen for use on other building projects. However, interest in the island’s religious heritage is now on the increase and Manx National Heritage has organised a Manx Christian Pilgrimage tour, which allows visitors to explore the island at their own page, enjoying centuries of Christian heritage.
Source
Broderick G (translator) Chronicles of the Kings of Man and the Isles [Manx National Heritage, 1995]
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