Saint Bride by John Duncan
Contemplation & Celebration of Saint Brigid of Kildare
Led by Beth Wylie
Who is Saint Brigid and why is she important? How does the Celtic goddess Brigid inform our understanding of Saint Brigid of Kildare, Ireland? Why do we celebrate Saint Brigid on February 1st? What does Brigid have to offer us in 2024?
In this three-part series, we will learn the history, traditions and deeper meanings of the Christian Saint Brigid of Kildare and the pre-Christian goddess Brigid, for whom the saint was named. On this special 1500 year anniversary of the historical Brigid’s death, we will gather online on Saint Brigid’s Day, February 1st to learn about Brigid. We will follow up later in the month with a reflection on Brigid in the morning service on Sunday, February 18, and an in-person class and celebration practicing the traditions of Saint Brigid’s Day in the afternoon.
Thursday February 1 Who was is Brigid? 7PM-8PM Online Class
We will learn the history of the historical Brigid of Kildare and the Celtic pre-Christian goddess Brigid. We will discuss the meaning of the symbols and rituals associated with Brigid to prepare us for the in person event on February 18. This will be an online event.
Sunday February 18 10AM-11:15AM Hybrid Service
Westhope Elder Beth Wylie will offer a reflection and lead our community discussion on Saint Brigid and the divine feminine in this Sunday’s service of prayer & presence. This will be a hybrid event.
Sunday February 18 Comhrá, Ceardaíocht Agus Craic! 11:45AM-1:15PM
In Person Class & Celebration
We will review and deepen our learning of the meaning of Saint Brigid’s Day, by celebrating with traditional Irish foods and activities. We will weave Saint Brigid’s crosses, make butter for our bread, try vegan colcannon soup, and generally have a good time! In honor of Saint Brigid, beer will be served, in addition to milk. This will be an in person event at Westhope.
I didn’t go to the first event, and I can only come to the celebration - is that OK?
Yes! All are welcome, no prior class or experience necessary. Let’s have some craic!
The Heavenly Banquet
I would like a great lake of beer for the King of Kings.
I would like to be watching Heaven's family drinking it through all eternity.
I'd like to give a lake of beer to God.
I'd love the Heavenly Host to be tippling there For all eternity.
I'd love the men of Heaven to live with me,
To dance and sing.
If they wanted, I'd put at their disposal
Vats of suffering.
White cups of love I'd give them,
With a heart and a half;
Sweet pitchers of mercy I'd offer To every man.
I'd make Heaven a cheerful spot,
Because the happy heart is true.
I'd make the men contented for their own sake
I'd like Jesus to love me too.
I'd like the people of heaven to gather
From all the parishes around,
I'd give a special welcome to the women,
The three Marys of great renown.
I'd sit with the men, the women of God
There by the lake of beer
We'd be drinking good health forever
And every drop would be a prayer.
-Saint Brigid of Ireland