Those of us who think of ourselves as “Celtic Followers of Christ” often like to idealize the ancient Celtic saints. The truth is, the early Celtic Christ-followers were a mixed bag (just like today’s). Many of them affirmed women’s spiritual roles—but some were downright misogynists. Some were tolerant of other beliefs and traditions—and others were as narrow-minded as any of today’s most intolerant conservatives. But one thing they all truly had in common—something that sets them apart and endears them to me—is this: they all loved animals.