SAINT BRIGID

Saint Brigid of Ireland, also known as Brigid of Kildare, is one of Ireland’s most beloved saints and is considered a patroness of the country, alongside Saint Patrick and Saint Columba. She lived in the 5th to early 6th century and is known for her deep faith, generosity, and leadership in the early Christian Church in Ireland.

Brigid was likely born around 451 AD in Faughart, County Louth. According to tradition, her mother was a Christian slave and her father a pagan chieftain. Brigid converted to Christianity at a young age and became known for her compassion, especially toward the poor and sick. She refused several marriage offers and instead chose a life of religious devotion.

She founded the monastery at Kildare, which became one of the most important centers of religion and learning in Ireland. Unusually for the time, it was a double monastery—home to both men and women—and she served as its abbess. Because of her influence and spiritual authority, some sources say she held episcopal (bishop-like) status, though this remains debated among historians.

Brigid was known for many miracles, including turning water into beer, healing the sick, and multiplying food. One well-known story tells of how she gave away her father’s prized sword to a poor man so he could barter it for food to feed his family.

She died around 525 AD and was buried in Kildare, though her relics were later moved to Downpatrick, where they are said to rest alongside Saint Patrick and Saint Columba.

Her feast day is February 1, which coincides with the ancient Celtic festival of Imbolc, marking the beginning of spring. This has led to connections between Saint Brigid and the pre-Christian Celtic goddess Brigid, though the saint is recognized as a distinct historical figure.

Saint Brigid is the patron saint of:

• Ireland
• Dairy workers
• Midwives
• Blacksmiths
• Poets
• Travelers
• Children of unmarried parents
• The poor

In art, she is often shown with a cross made of rushes, known as St. Brigid’s Cross, or with symbols of light, fire, and fertility—echoes of her connection to the renewal of spring and her care for life in all forms.

16”x20” acrylic on wood.

Prayerfully painted by Stephen Hotchkiss. 
If unavailable please inquire about having a similar painting made.