The feast day Saint Bridget of Kildare, also called St Brigid of Ireland, Patron Saint of Ireland, is February 1st, which is traditionally the beginning of spring in Ireland.
Saint Brigid is associated with the making, blessing and giving of Brigid’s crosses.
The best known Brigid’s tradition is the making and giving of Brigid’s crosses. This tradition is based on a legend about Saint Brigid which tells us that she converted a dying Pagan. To explain the new faith to him, she improvised making a cross from rushes which was all that was available to her in the location. Traditionally, Brigid’s crosses are made on January 31st. They are made from fresh rushes. There are different shapes of these crosses.
Crosses can be given to neighbours and friends as presents. Placing a cross above the door is a welcome to visitors. The crosses are also thought to protect the home and its’ inhabitants.
Mary Liston was very busy helping Second Class and Senior Infants making the traditional St. Bridget’s Crosses. Mr Pat Broderick came to our school also to show 4th and 5th class pupils how to make a few varieties of the St. Bridget’s Crosses. See some pictures below of the St Bridget’s Crosses made and being made.
