Correct answer

A wise decision. It would be foolish to dissolve the well-established existing Church in Scotland. As a show of your respect for St Columba, you and Malcolm III rebuild the monastery at Iona.

Respect the roots

You recognise the significance of St Columba and Iona to the Scots. You aim to unite the nation's religious cultures by reconciling the west with the east. This is a very strategic move – worthy of a great ruler – Malcolm had better watch out, you could take over his job!

Many crosses from the 8th or 9th century cover the western Highlands as a reminder of its religious beginnings.

Site of the early Gaelic Christian community at Iona, established by Columba, 6th century.

Evidence of early Gaelic Christianity in the west of Scotland. St John’s cross, Iona.