The Iona Community is gearing up for the final stage of the redevelopment of its historic Iona Abbey base. 

Founded by Rev George MacLeod during the Great Depression, the Community rebuilt the medieval abbey and developed a communal life together that has proved highly influential in modern worship, spirituality and social activism.

During 2018, accommodation and facilities on the island of Iona have been made more accessible for visitors: bathrooms have been replaced to suit people with disabilities, a lift has been installed and lighting has been improved to create a safer environment in the 1930s accommodation.

The volunteers and staff on the island have now started packing up the building so that phase two of the project can begin: linking the centre to the island's renewable energy resources, installing a sustainable heating system, replacing electrics and refurbishing the bedrooms, bathrooms and the refectory.

The Community has raised more than £3.3 million for the work on the island including more than 1,300 individual donations, ranging from £2 to an unexpected £882,000 from the Ark of the Covenant Church through the Charity Commission. Over $1 million was donated from friends and foundations in the USA.

It needs a final £400,000 by the end of 2018 so that the residential and community space can reopen in time for Easter 2020.

The Iona Community's co-leader Rev Kathy Galloway said: 'The generosity of our members, friends and associates has made this progress possible, and we now just need help crossing the line of our fundraising campaign.

'The Iona Community welcomes around 1500 guests to the island each year, and we want to welcome people from all walks of life for generations to come.

'Raising the final £400,000 will mean we can complete and equip the living and community space and minimise the impact our closure has on the island's economy.'

She said that at the moment many rooms were too cold to use past October and before March.

'We need help now to cross the line so that we can safeguard Iona Abbey as a living place of hospitality, and ensure that thousands more people can visit this special place seeking sanctuary and inspiration.'

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