Columbanus, a monk and an outsider from Ireland, built the monasteries which became Europe's first universities, established a writing system to encourage the spread of liberal values, and risked his life when he demanded high standards of leadership from powerful leaders - bishops, kings and even popes. These foundations are said to have preserved Western civilisation through the Dark Ages.
In the often fractured Europe of today; the lessons of Columbanus are just as relevant. Be reminded of how openness and diversity can encourage positive progression.
