In a heartwarming tribute to St Brigid, Carmel Hayes has been teaching students at St Brigid’s Primary School in Drumilly, south Armagh, how to craft traditional St Brigid’s crosses for over two decades. This year, her granddaughter Mya has joined the enthusiastic learners, highlighting a generational bond through a practice that embodies both creativity and cultural heritage.
Crafting Tradition
The art of making St Brigid’s crosses involves weaving rushes, a plant often considered a nuisance by farmers but cherished for its role in this cultural tradition. “The whole secret is to hold them good and tight,” Carmel explains, demonstrating the technique to her eager pupils. This hands-on activity not only engages the children but also deepens their understanding of St Brigid’s significance.
Among the students, Olivia shared her experience of gathering rushes from the fields, contributing to the classroom project. “I went to the fields and cut them down and brought them into school,” she said proudly. The initiative allows the children to connect with nature, reinforcing the link between the land and St Brigid’s teachings.
Stories of St Brigid
Beyond the craft, Carmel enriches the children’s learning with narratives about St Brigid and the historical context of her feast day, celebrated on February 1. This date marks the onset of spring, or Imbolc, in the Celtic calendar, symbolising renewal and hope after the winter months. “It’s lovely to talk about her in a school named after her,” Carmel remarked, as she encourages the students to look for early signs of spring, such as snowdrops and blooming flowers.
In their lessons, the children learn about St Brigid’s resourcefulness and determination. One story highlights her clever negotiation with the King of Leinster, who initially refused her request for land to establish a church. Riona recounted, “She wanted land to build a church, and she had a cloak that grew over the land, convincing the king to grant her what she needed.” This tale not only teaches resilience but also connects the students to their local heritage.
Connections to St Brigid
St Brigid’s legacy extends beyond Drumilly, with significant historical ties to both County Louth and Kildare. The children are informed about Faughart, her birthplace near Louth, and Kildare, where she founded her most renowned church. Eadaoin added, “She built that church in Kildare, but she was from near here in Louth,” reinforcing the importance of locality in understanding St Brigid’s impact.
Furthermore, the town of Downpatrick in County Down claims a notable connection to St Brigid. While primarily known as the resting place of St Patrick, it is believed that the remains of St Brigid and St Colmcille were also moved there to protect them from Viking raids. Tour guide Brigid Watson explained, “When she died, she was buried beside the high altar in Kildare, but her remains were later brought here to Downpatrick.” This rich tapestry of history allows the students to appreciate the broader significance of St Brigid, not just in their community but across Ireland.
A Growing Celebration
In recent years, the observance of St Brigid’s Day has gained momentum, with it now recognised as a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland. While not officially a holiday in Northern Ireland, events celebrating her legacy are increasingly common. A notable example is the upcoming weekend festival at Down Cathedral, situated just a stone’s throw from her grave, where locals and visitors alike can partake in the festivities.
Why it Matters
The teachings and traditions associated with St Brigid serve as a vital connection to Irish culture and identity, particularly for the younger generation. By engaging with these customs, children like Mya not only learn about their heritage but also cultivate a sense of belonging and community. As more people come to appreciate St Brigid’s influence, her stories and traditions continue to thrive, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their roots.