For you yourselves know, brothers and sisters,
about our entrance to you,
that it has not been empty,
but having suffered previously
and been treated disgracefully,
as you know
in Philippi
we had courage in our God,
to speak to you
the gospel of God 
amongst much opposition.

For our appeal
is not from error nor impure motives nor from deceit
but as we have been approved by God
to be trusted with the gospel
so we have spoken
and not to please people
but God
who tests our hearts.

Be thou a bright flame before me,
Be thou a guiding star above me
Be thou a smooth path below me
Be thou a kindly shepherd behind me
Today – tonight -forever
Amen.

St Columba