On Saturday, February 1st, we celebrated the Feast Day of Saint Brigid, the patron saint of our Parish. She was an Irish Christian nun and joined Saint Patrick as one of the patron saints of Ireland. She is traditionally associated with the Cross of Saint Brigid. This cross is made from reeds or straw and is often placed in homes for blessing and protection. Saint Brigid is known for her extraordinary spirituality. She worked tirelessly to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ. She traveled widely throughout Ireland, founding many convents and fostering vocation awareness. Saint Brigid organized communal consecrated religious life for the women of Ireland. Her focus on communal prayer and work attracted many followers. She played a major role in making Ireland a Christian nation. Many would travel long distances to seek her spiritual advice and counsel. Many were led to the faith through her words and example, and she can serve as a wonderful model for us.
Saint Brigid is associated with Christian charity and is celebrated for her generosity to those in need. It was said that she could not bear to see anyone cold or hungry since she truly believed that Christ dwelt in every person. She strived to work with the less fortunate with love and compassion. Her love of God and love of neighbor were obvious to all who knew her. Catholic education also was a great priority for her. Saint Brigid strived to see that the Catholic faith was taught clearly and thoroughly. She founded several schools and is regarded as the patron saint of students.
The following “Prayer to Saint Brigid” reflects the spirituality of her life:
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 your 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.
As we reflect on this prayer, we are strongly encouraged to make a conscious effort to celebrate the life and legacy of this great saint.