Saint Brigid of Kildare

Saint Brigid of Kildare is one of Ireland’s most popular patron saints.  Known to be an early Irish Christian nun, founder of multiple monasteries of nuns and abess. Her feast day marks the beginning of Spring. 

As with many historic people and moments in Irish culture Saint Brigid is associated with many legends and folk traditions. Her name is derived from the noun Brigh meaning strength, power,virtue. Saint Brigid is remembered for her kindness and generosity to the poor and those in need, with miracles often attributed to women. Prayers to Saint Brigid are said to calm the wind and rain, and miracles associated with Saint Brigid of Kildare are often associated with protecting women and nuns. 

We most commonly associate a cross made from rushes with Saint Brigid. This stems from the story of Saint Brigid comforting a sick patient some say was her father, and calming them with stories of her trust and faith in God. She began to make a cross with rushes to make a cross whilst telling these stories and the patient was baptised with the cross before their death. These crosses have great significance in Irish homes and are often placed in homes to ward off hunger and fire. The cross also represents Saint Brigid’s faith and kindness. 

Saint Brigid died at the age of 75 years old in AD 525 in the church which she created. Her remains were exhumed and buried in Downpatrick alongside Saint Patrick. 

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