The 2025 Morgan Europe Trip

 May 26, 2025   Dunfermline Abbey and Palace in Search of St. Margaret St. Margaret of Scotland has captured my heart. Here is what I have learned about her:  "St. Margaret of Scotland was a Scottish queen and English princess, known for her devout piety, charitable works, and influence on the Church in Scotland. She lived from 1045 to 1093, was canonized by Pope Innocent IV in 1250, and is commemorated on November 16th. Key Aspects of St. Margaret of Scotland: Devout Life: She was a devout Christian, known for her piety and devotion to prayer and religious practice. Charitable Works: She was dedicated to charitable works, particularly helping the poor and needy. Influence on the Church: She had a significant impact on the Church in Scotland, promoting Latin as the language of the Mass and encouraging communion during Easter. Patroness of Scotland: She is considered a patron saint of Scotland and is known for her kind and caring nature. Family: She was married to Kin...

 May 25, 2025   Cambuskenneth Abbey and a Scottish McDonald's On the other side of Stirling and across the River Forth lies the ruins of Cambuskenneth Abbey. The Abbey website sums it up like this...."Cambuskenneth Abbey was founded in about 1140 by King David I to serve Stirling Castle, which stands a short distance to the west. It was the scene of Robert the Bruce’s parliaments in 1314 and 1326, and the burial place of James III and Margaret of Denmark in the 1480s. The abbey’s chief delight is the bell tower – there are no parallels for this structure in Scotland. It’s an excellent example of 1200s architecture, with good lancet windows and ornamental arcades." Here's a little more info on the abbey: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/cambuskenneth-abbey/history/ Over the River Forth on a pedestrian bridge. The tower is all that is in tact. The tower that still stands is on the left. The yellow dot marks the front door of the church. The arc...