Editing Columbanus (section)

==Character==
Columbanus did not lead a perfect life. According to Jonas and other sources, he could be impetuous and even headstrong, for by nature he was eager, passionate, and dauntless. These qualities were both the source of his power and the cause of his mistakes.<ref name="edmonds"/> His virtues, however, were quite remarkable. Like many saints, he had a great love for God's creatures. Stories claim that as he walked in the woods, it was not uncommon for birds to land on his shoulders to be caressed, or for [[squirrel]]s to run down from the trees and nestle in the folds of his cowl.<ref name="edmonds"/> Although a strong defender of Irish traditions, he never wavered in showing deep respect for the Holy See as the supreme authority. His influence in Europe was due to the conversions he effected and to the rule that he composed. It may be that the example and success of [[Columba]] in Caledonia inspired him to similar exertions.<ref name="edmonds"/> The life of Columbanus stands as the prototype of missionary activity in Europe, followed by such men as [[Saint Kilian|Kilian]], [[Vergilius of Salzburg]], [[Donatus of Fiesole]], [[Wilfrid]], [[Willibrord]], [[Suitbert of Kaiserwerdt]], [[Saint Boniface|Boniface]], and [[Ursicinus of Saint-Ursanne]].<ref name="edmonds"/>