Saint Brigid’s Cross

In sixth class, we made Saint Brigid’s crosses. They are made from rushes. Ms. Mc Carry got the rushes in Donegal. The cross usually has a square shape in the centre followed for groups of rushes that form a cross. Some people say Saint Brigid’s cross is related to the sun cross. The crosses are traditionally made on the feast day of Saint Brigid, the first of February. The woven rushes are thought to keep evil, fire and hunger from the homes in which it is displayed.

So who is Saint Brigid?

Saint Brigid was born in Faughart in County Louth. She lived in a farmhouse. She always helped out by doing many jobs around the farm like herding cattle and churning butter.

When she was growing up Brigid was a kind and loving child. She loved learning and always seized the opportunity to learn something new.

Most of all she loved to help people. She especially liked to help those most in need like beggars, the sick or the lonely. She gave these people food and cared for them. These people often felt better when in the care of Saint Brigid. Brigid would never leave someone in need and always put others needs before her own.

Brigid grew up to be a wonderful and kind woman and many noble lords wanted to marry her. Brigid had no desire to be married and instead she became a nun. Her father Dubtach was angry at this but Brigid forgave him and knew that he just didn’t understand.

Brigid is the Patron Saint of Ireland. She is loved and admired by many.