Newry Journal

The tradition of the St Brigit’s Cross also reaches back to Pre-Christian times (when it was made of straw). In Irish folklore rushes were associated with childbirth and were laid down when a woman was giving birth…

  It was not unknown historically, for Christian authorities to vest in their holy people many of the characteristics of the more ancient gods and goddesses beloved of the people.

It is said that St Bridgit went to confession to St Mel, who pronounced the formula for the consecration of a bishop in place of absolution. From this derives the tradition that Bridgit was herself a bishop.

When she was of marriageable age her father tried to arrange a marriage for her, but Brigit refused all suitors, being determined to become a nun. 

Wednesday of this week is St Bridgit’s day. In The Meadow we lived in St Bridgit’s ward and worshipped in St Bridgit’s Church.