Saint Otteran

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Saint Otteran, a descendant of Conall Gulban, is usually identified with Odhron (also called Odhrán or Oran), who preceded Saint Columba in Iona. His death is recorded in 548 and his grave was greatly revered in Iona.
According to Irish tradition Saint Otteran was abbot of Meath and founder of Lattreagh. He is described variously as companion, brother or son of Columba, and died soon after his arrival on Iona. Columba saw devils and angels fight over Otteran's soul before it ascended into heaven.
Another legend tells that the chapel that Saint Columba wanted to build on Iona was destroyed every night. Finally he was told by a voice that it could never be finished until a living man was buried below. So Otteran was buried alive willingly and the chapel could be finished. But one day he pushed his head through the wall and said that there was no hell as was supposed nor heaven that people talk about. Alarmed by this Columba let Otteran's body be variously covered with earth more securely or removed with haste.
In a Hebridean version of this tale the sacrifice is promised that his soul will be safe in heaven. Some time after the burial Columba wants to see Otteran once more and opens the pit under the chapel. When Otteran sees the world he tries to come out again, but Columba has the pit covered with earth quickly to save Otterans soul from the world and its sin.
These legends are one of the few instances of Foundations Sacrifice in Great Britain.
The oldest remaining church on Iona is dedicated to Saint Odhran and the surrounding cemetery is called Reilig Odhráin in his memory.
He was chosen by the Vikings as patron of the city of Waterford in 1096 and later became patron of the diocese.
Saint Otteran's feast day is October 27.

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