Rekindling the Flame

Rekindling the Flame – A Pilgrimage in the Footsteps of Brigid of Kildare was first published in 1999. The intention then, as now, was to provide a guide to pilgrims to Kildare ‘this sacred place, this ground revered by all who honour the name of Brigid’.

The book begins with a brief introduction to St. Brigid and her foundation and later the Brigidine foundation. The guide to pilgrimage then begins leading the pilgrim from the Market square to St. Brigid’s Cathedral, Here time is taken to observe the detail of the stained glass windows, before moving outside to the High Cross, Round Tower and St. Brigid’s Fire Temple to reflect their significance.

The Pilgrim continues to make their way to St Brigid’s parish church and on to Solas Bhride Spirituality Centre and St. Brigid’s well.

Since the first edition of the book was published in 1999, Solas Bhríde Spirituality Centre on Tully road was opened in 2015. This new chapter provides the visitor with an overview of the vision of Solas Bhríde and invites them to visit in particular the Brigid room that holds the Brigid Flame. The spark, taken from the Brigid flame, relit in 1993 is tended here and burns as a beacon of hope, justice, and peace for the world. This visit also includes strolling in the grounds to take in St. Brigid’s sculpture, the Labyrinth, and the mini Oak grove. A more detailed history of development of Solas Bhríde Spirituality can be found at the end of the book.

The visitor is presented with many opportunities and practices to pause and reflect on St. Brigid, a ‘Woman for our time’ and also on their own inner journey. If unable to come to Kildare, with guidance from this book, it is possible to take this pilgrimage in one’s own place, at one’s own time.