Being both Irish and Catholic, it was no surprise to receive a Saint Brigid’s cross from an aunt’s trip to Ireland, on the occasion of our second daughter’s birth. While the gift was appreciated, it wasn’t until we received it that we learned about the significance of the cross, and thereby the patroness of Ireland.
What’s in a Name?
There are many renditions of her name in English, old Irish, Welsh and contemporary Irish, as well as throughout history: Brigit, Brid, Ffraid, ‘Mother St. of Ireland,’ and ‘Mary of the Gael.’ She remains the only patroness of Ireland, and was affectionately named for her likeness to Jesus’ mother, Mary, by those she ministered to most closely in the Gael.
Stories abound of Saint Brigid, like this one from her childhood. Most agree that her mother, who was baptized by Saint Patrick, had been instrumental in forming her faith. Her father was a chieftain, which meant that Brigid was born a slave. However, because she shares a name with the Celtic goddess, Brigid, there is some gray area between her saintly life and the legends that surround Brigid.
Historically, the majority of Irish Catholic families had Patricks and/or Brigids, celebrating their heroic patrons. Because of this tradition that was locked in the Gaelic language, in addition to the lack of printing presses and suppression of education for the Irish people, much of this history was lost for a time. Well-meaning English speakers mistakenly provided images and stories of Saint Bridget (of Sweden), who lived in the 1300s. Because of this miscommunication, many began to inadvertently spell their children’s names as depicted on prayer cards of Saint Bridget. Only recently have the history and tradition of Saint Brigid of Ireland begun to be reclaimed.
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Brigid’s Ministry in Ireland
Saint Brigid began her monastery in Kildare in 480 on the site of the shrine to the goddess Brigid–a symbolic beginning, which left a fuzzy trajectory for historians. Her feast day is shared with a pre-Christian festival called Imbolc, which originated as a celebration of spring. For the first time this year, Saint Brigid’s feast day (February 1st) will be celebrated as a national holiday in the Republic of Ireland. This Irish feast is also the first marked in honor of a woman.
One famous story remembered of her was a visit she made to a man who was dying. He was experiencing anguish of both body and soul. Over the course of her visit, Saint Brigid gathered rushes off of the ground and began weaving them into the shape of a cross.
As she wove, the man was intrigued and began to ask her about the cross. She was able to share the story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. The pagan man converted and requested Baptism before he died. The design of the cross that illustrated the conversation between Brigid and the dying man has been dubbed St. Brigid’s cross.
Saint Brigid’s life and love of Christ had a lasting impact on the people of Ireland and the surrounding region. It is exciting to learn that some of what may have been forgotten of her—in Celtic Catholicism, the spelling of names, and images such as this simple cross—is being brought back to light and recognized for her influential ministry.
As her witness and influence continue to unfold, we ask for the intercession of Saint Brigid, the Mary of the Gael. She is remembered as the patron saint of poetry, learning, healing, protection, blacksmithing, livestock and dairy production.
Saint Brigid, pray for us.
How has your understanding of/relationship with beloved saints evolved over time?
Saint Brigid, you were a woman of peace. You brought harmony where there was conflict. You brought light to the darkness. You brought hope to the downcast. May the mantle of peace cover those who are troubled and anxious, and may peace be firmly rooted in our hearts and in our world. Inspire us to act justly and to reverence all God has made. Brigid, you were a voice for the wounded and the weary. Strengthen what is weak within us. Calm us into a quietness that heals and listens. May we grow each day into greater wholeness in mind, body and spirit. Amen.
Katie Cassady is a wife and mom who has worked in young adult and social ministry in a variety of roles over the past 15 years. Steeped in theological reflection, it is her joy to make connections between Scripture, service, and Catholic social teaching through her work at Catholic Charities. She holds a master's degree in Pastoral Ministry and loves to write about the dignity of the human person, stewardship, and Sabbath in a world desperate for the peace of Christ.
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