Feast of St. Brigid of Kildare

Brigid lived the Beatitudes. Born around the year 454 at Faughart, she followed her calling to consecrate her life to God. Tutored by Mel in Ardagh, she fostered that calling in many others. With Conleth, she founded the

double monastery of Kildare. The interior spiritual life was given countless expression in a life marked  by welcome of the stranger and hospitality to all, in her care for the sick and the poor, and in her concern for animals, nature and the Earth. Brigid died  on
1 February 524 and is buried in Downpatrick,
with the other two patrons of Ireland,

Patrick and Columba (Colum Cille).

The first day of February is also the date of the Celtic festival of Imbolc, the beginning of a new season of hope and growth.  Brigid’s reputation spread
throughout Ireland and in many parts of Europe. The legend of her cloak expanding to meet the needs of her monastery, highlights the power of this
fourth/fifth-century woman. The Brigid’s Cross,

woven from rushes, expressed her Christian faith and God’s concern and protection given to us through the prayers and intercession of Brigid.
The public holiday (on Monday, 2 February 2026) is linked with the feast of our patron saint. It was
established as a recognition of the enormous sacrifices made by our people and by front-line workers in
particular during the Covid 19 pandemic. With St Brigid we remember those who died, all who suffered in so many ways, and those who still suffer, and we express our gratitude to those who, like St Brigid, gave
guidance, care and comfort.

A Naomh Bríd a  Mhuire na nGael, scar orainn do bhrat.

A Naomh Bríd, a chroí na féile, stiúir sinn ar an mbóthar ceart. A Naomh Bríd gheanúil ghrástúil, ar ár namhaid cosain sinn. A Naomh Bríd, a bhean rialta álainn, ar uair ár mbáis glaoigh orainn.