Historical setting: 602 C.E. The Vosges Mountains
We’re gathered at the table for our morning oats with our guest, Bishop Felix. Right in the middle of the table is a wilting bouquet of pinkish shades of chickory gathered by Haberd and Brandell. Now I see they are thinking of the color of this bishop’s robes.
Bishop Felix has Brandell on his knee at the table, and he explains his elegant style to the child. “Monks follow the rule of poverty. But it seems bishops make their own rule. Often, they distinguish themselves in black or white or red. Of course, Father Columbanus has no rule for bishops other than what is for his monks, because there are no bishops at Luxeuil. So, as a bishop now, and yet a follower of the father I am bound by no rule for color.
When I was made a bishop by the pope I considered the colors carefully, black for the mystery, white for the purity, red for the love — some bishops wear bright purple maybe for their own nobility. But as for me, I find Pale linen invites; it doesn’t astound or overwhelm with authority. So, in Rome I found a dyer of linens who could make this pale rose color, and it was my choice. I’m never mistaken for Frankish nobility. Were we not in a place so worried over bishop power, and had I not been to Rome where this fabric was available, I would simply choose white to remind me always to be pure. But the best thing now is that my choice is appreciated by this child who has a discerning eye for color.”
After Father Columbanus and Bishop Felix spent the night considering the possibility of the pope intervening on behalf of the Father, I know a letter to the pope will be dispatched as soon as he returns to Luxeuil. But right now, Bishop Felix seems playfully enjoying his own place in the hierarchy having been raised to the equal of the pesky bishops. He is hoping to make peace with them one by one looking for compromises that will allow for the Celtic Rule.
“But,” he explains, “After speaking with Father Columbanus they may be dug in and unwilling to negotiate. If the bishops succeed in ousting Father Columbanus, I plan to ask Pope Gregory to consider me for an assignment as a missionary to East Anglia.”
“So, you would just give up on all of us here?” I ask.
(Continues tomorrow)
Lazarus Ink 