Saint Brigid, Patroness of Ireland

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. The unquenchable fire of Saint Brigid at Kildare

   Kildare · town · Kildare · 1220

   Giraldus Cambrensis described the 'inextinguishable fire of Saint Brigid' at Kildare, tended continuously by nuns for centuries, later ordered extinguished by Bishop Henry de Loundres in 1220 but relit and kept burning until the suppression of the monasteries under Elizabeth.

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   The history of Saint Brigid would be incomplete without reference being made to the Holy Fire with which her name is connected. It was commonly called the "inextinguishable fire of Saint Brigid." This name was given to it, not because it could not be quenched or extinguished but solely for the reason that it was kept lighting night and day by the nuns and holy women, who kept it alive by a constant supply of fuel. Giraldus Camhrensis, who wrote in the twelfth century, thus speaks of it: "At Kildare, which the glorious Brigid renders illustrious, are many miracles worthy of notice, and the first that occurs is 'Brigid's Fire,’ called the unquenchable fire, not that it cannot be put out, but because the nuns and religious women are so careful and diligent in supplying and recruiting it with fuel, that from the time of that virgin, it hath remained always unextinguished through so many succession of years; and although in such a length of years so vast a quantity of wood hath been consumed, yet the ashes have never increased." Many miracles are related of the punishment, swift and dreadful, that befell those who had the temerity to interfere with this fire with the intention of extinguishing it, or lessening its intensity and brightness.

   The learned Archbishop of Tuam, in his work, more than once quoted in these pages, inclines to the opinion that this fire was kept burning before the tomb of Saint Brigid. "Can it be," he asks, "that the Kildare nuns anticipated this general, and now obligatory, rule of keeping a perpetual lamp before the Blessed Sacrament? Or was it a sacred fire that was kept always burning before the tomb of their holy Foundress? In all probability the perpetual fire of Kildare was for the purpose of keeping the lamps lit before the shrines of its holy Foundress. Many accidents might lead to the lamp itself being extinguished, but the sacred fire, night and day, under the sedulous care of Saint Brigid's daughters, might be cherished 'through long ages of darkness and storm,' if

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   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Kildare town, you are passing the place where Saint Brigid's fire once burned. Giraldus Cambrensis, writing in the twelfth century, described it. He called it the unquenchable fire, not because it could not be put out, but because the nuns and holy women were so careful and diligent in supplying it with fuel that from the time of Brigid it remained always unextinguished through so many successions of years. He noted that although such a vast quantity of wood had been consumed over such a length of years, the ashes had never increased. Many miracles were related of swift and dreadful punishment that befell those who had the temerity to interfere with this fire, intending to extinguish it or lessen its intensity and brightness. The Archbishop of Tuam inclined to the opinion that this fire was kept burning before the tomb of Saint Brigid. He asked whether the Kildare nuns had anticipated the rule of keeping a perpetual lamp before the Blessed Sacrament, or whether it was a sacred fire kept always burning before the shrine of their holy foundress. In all probability, he said, the perpetual fire of Kildare served to keep the lamps lit before the shrines of its holy foundress. In 1220, Bishop Henry de Loundres ordered the fire extinguished. But it was relit, and kept burning until the suppression of the monasteries under Elizabeth.

2. Founding of Kildare beneath the sacred oak at Druim-Criadh

   Kildare · town · Kildare

   Brigid selected a site called Druim-Criadh, 'the ridge of clay,' overlooking the Liffey plain, marked by a giant oak tree under which she built her oratory; the tree survived for centuries and no one dared harm it.

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   oak tree of extraordinary size, with branches stretched out as if preserving the ground for the high and noble end for which it was chosen, attracted our Saint's attention. This giant oak survived the fury of the many storms that raged through its branches down to the tenth century. No one dare touch or injure the sacred tree of Saint Brigid. Under the shadow of this oak, Saint Brigid built her oratory.

   Having selected the site which was to be the scene of her labours for the remaining years of her life, Saint Brigid paid a visit to the house of her father. Her mother had died during the Saint's long absence in other parts of Ireland. Dubtach, her father, and her relatives prepared a warm welcome for her. She remained only one night under the parental roof. During her sleep an angel appeared to her and warned her of a terrible disaster which threatened the lives of those near and dear to her by ties of blood. Thus spoke the angel: "Arise immediately and arouse your father, with his whole family, and your religious daughters, now sleeping, for with an intention of murdering your father and his household, an enemy approaches. But the Lord will prevent such intention on your account Depart instantly from this house, for the foe will set it on fire." The Saint obeyed the order and warned the inmates. All fled from the house in time to save their lives. They had gone only a short distance when they beheld, with sorrow, their home devoured by fire, which the hands of their enemies had kindled. Dubtach cried out to his daughter: "O holy Brigid, thy blessing has preserved us this night from impending death. We are now conscious of all those wonderful things predicted concerning thee." Saint Brigid answering said: "Not only this night, but so long as you live, blood shall not be shed within your dwelling."!

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   As the companion tells it

   You are coming through Kildare now. This is the town that grew from Brigid's choice of a site called Druim-Criadh, the ridge of clay, looking out over the plain of the Liffey. What drew her here was an oak tree of extraordinary size, its branches stretched out as if the ground beneath had been set aside for some high and noble end. Under the shadow of that oak she built her oratory, and that choice became the centre of her work for the remaining years of her life. The giant oak survived the fury of many storms that raged through its branches down to the tenth century. No one dared touch or injure the sacred tree of Saint Brigid. After selecting the site, she paid a visit to the house of her father. Her mother had died during her long absence in other parts of Ireland. Dubtach, her father, and her relatives prepared a warm welcome. She stayed only one night under the parental roof. During her sleep an angel appeared and warned her of a terrible disaster threatening the lives of those near and dear to her. The angel said, arise immediately and arouse your father, with his whole family, and your religious daughters, now sleeping, for an enemy approaches with an intention of murdering your father and his household. But the Lord will prevent such intention on your account. Depart instantly, for the foe will set the house on fire. Brigid obeyed and warned the inmates. All fled in time to save their lives. They had gone only a short distance when they beheld, with sorrow, their home devoured by fire kindled by their enemies. Dubtach cried out, O holy Brigid, thy blessing has preserved us this night from impending death. Brigid answered, not only this night, but so long as you live, blood shall not be shed within your dwelling.

3. Saint Brigid's Birth in Faughart, County Louth

   Faughart · parish · Louth · 451–458

   Saint Brigid was born in the village of Faughart, County Louth, sometime between 451 and 458. Memorials of the Saint including ruins of a church said to be built on the site of her birth-house, an old graveyard called Saint Brigid's Cemetery, and Saint Brigid's Well are still shown to visitors there.

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   There is a general agreement of opinion amongst Saint Brigid's most learned and reliable biographers that it was in the village of Faughart, County Louth, she first saw the light. The date of @ her birth is a matter upon which there exists great diversity of : opinion amongst writers of her life. It may safely be placed in some year between 451 and 458. Faughart is distant about three miles from Dundalk. In and around the village are to be found memorials of the Saint, which are religiously treasured by the inhabitants. The ruins of a church, said to have been built on the site of the very house in which Saint Brigid was born, are shown to the visitor. An old graveyard, in which are interred many noted men and women of bygone days, is still called Saint Brigid's Cemetery. The interested visitor will be shown Saint Brigid's Well, the waters of which are reputed to possess curative properties, as a result of the blessing bestowed upon them by the Saint, whose name they bear. The village itself is

   surrounded by the fertile valleys of Louth. A splendid view of Dundalk Bay, with the Cooley mountains in the distance, is obtained from Faughart. The country around the birth-place of the Saint abounds in historic memories. Cardinal Moran, in his short Life of Saint Brigid, writing of Faughart, says: "Every inch of the adjoining plains is historic ground, and from the days of Dathi and Fingall, to those of Edward Bruce and O'Neill, and still later times, some of the most stirring scenes of Irish history were witnessed there." A stream runs through a field near the Holy Well. Pilgrimages are made by the people of the district, and from distant parts of the country to this stream, in the pious hope of being freed from their maladies, through the intercession of her who was born near its waters. Mention of Faughart is made by Saint Bernard in his life of Saint Malachy. He says that "three Bishops came into the village of Faughart, which they say was the birthplace of Saint Brigid."

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4. Bishop Malachy's vision and rediscovery of the three saints' graves at Down

   near Downpatrick · town · Down · 1185–1186

   In 1185 Bishop Malachy of Down prayed to rediscover the lost burial site of Patrick, Brigid and Columba, and saw a ray of light settle over their graves in his cathedral, leading him to disinter and re-inter the relics.

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   the Bishopric of Down in the year 1185. King John had made his advent into Ireland in that year. Malachy had set his heart on discovering the exact burial ground of Ireland's greatest saints, and for this purpose had recourse to long and incessant prayer. His petition was granted ina marvellous manner. The late Canon O'Hanlon, in his Life of Saint Brigid, gives a detailed account of this occurrence: "While engaged in fervent prayer and within the Church of his Cathedral city, Malachy saw a ray of light like a sunbeam extending itself through the Church. Finally it settled over the graves of those inhumed Saints. The Bishop was exceedingly rejoiced at this vision, and he prayed more earnestly that the ray of light might remain until he had discovered the relics. Then rising and having procured the necessary implements, he went to the illuminated spot and dug beneath. In fine, he disinterred the bodies of the three Saints. The tomb or grave of Saint Patrick was fixed ina central cave or compartment, with the remains of Saint Brigid and Saint Columba on either side. He then withdrew those precious relics and placed them in three separate coffins. Afterwards he buried them in that same spot, which he took care to mark with great exactness. Malachy related the particulars of his vision to John De Courcey, the Governor of Down. This renowned warrior, being distinguished for his zeal in the cause of religion, concurred with the Bishop, that a message should be despatched to Rome with an humble supplication, addressed to the Sovereign Chief of the faithful - Urban III. His sanction for a solemn translation of those relics was requested. To this petition Pope Urban assented, and immediately despatched Vivian, Cardinal Priest of Saint Stephen, as his Legate to Ireland. The public translation of die relics took place on the 9th of June, 1186, the festival of Saint Columbkille. With all due reverence and great solemnity, those remains were removed from the place of their deposition to a more conspicuous position arranged for their reception within the

   Cathedral Church." Here they reposed in peace and were pious objects of veneration down to that century, the sixteenth, which witnessed the demoniacal fury of Henry VIII against the Catholic religion and institutions in Ireland.

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5. Cogitosus describes the great Church of Kildare

   Kildare · town · Kildare · 700–799

   The monk Cogitosus, writing in the eighth century, gives a detailed architectural description of the Church of Saint Brigid at Kildare, noting the tombs of Bishop Conlaeth and Brigid on either side of the decorated altar, and the partitions separating clergy, nuns, and lay faithful by rank and sex.

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   the eighth century, will serve to give our readers an idea of the architectural beauty and majestic proportions of the Church of Saint Brigid, as it existed in his day. Of all the ancient writers on ecclesiastical buildings, he is, perhaps, the most complete in detailing the special architectural features in the Cathedral Churches of those early times. "In the Church of Kildare," he says, "repose the glorious bodies of the chief Bishop Conlaeth and of the most illustrious virgin, Brigid, on the right and left of the decorated altar, enshrined in monuments adorned with various ornaments of silver and gold, and gems and precious stones, with crowns of gold and silver depending from above, with various images and variegated embellishments, and thus the new is added to the old. For, the number of faithful increasing, the Church was built occupying a Spacious area, and elevated to a marvellous height, enriched within with painted figures, and having oratories separated by boarded partitions under the one roof of the greater edifice. One partition, decorated and covered with pictures and tapestry, extended across the building from wall to wall in the eastern part of the Church (that is, at the back of the altar), and at its extremities it has two doors, through one of which, placed to the right, is the entrance to the sanctuary, where the chief prelate, accompanied by his clergy, and those who are deputed to the service of the altar, offers the Sacred and Dominical Sacrifice; and through the other door, placed in the left, the Abbess, with her faithful virgins and widows, approaches to partake of the Banquet of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. But another partition, stretching along the pavement of the building, and extending from the western end of the sanctuary, divides the Church into two equal parts; and there are many windows in the Church, and one ornamented doorway to the right, through which the clergy and faithful of the male sex enter the Church, and another doorway to the left, through which maidens and the congregation of the faithful women are accustomed to enter. Thus, m one chief

   basilica, a multitude of people, differing in rank and sex and position, and separated by partitions in varied order, but with one mind, worship the Omnipotent God."

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   As the companion tells it

   As you pass through Kildare, you are near the site of the great Church of Saint Brigid. In the eighth century, a monk named Cogitosus wrote the most complete account we have of this church. He described the tombs of Bishop Conlaeth and Brigid resting on the right and left of the decorated altar, enshrined in monuments adorned with silver and gold, gems and precious stones, with crowns of gold and silver hanging above. The church occupied a spacious area and rose to a marvellous height, its interior enriched with painted figures. Boarded partitions divided the space under one great roof. A decorated partition stretched across the eastern end behind the altar, with two doors. Through the right door the chief prelate and clergy entered the sanctuary to offer the Sacred Sacrifice. Through the left door the Abbess and her virgins and widows approached to partake of the banquet of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. Another partition ran along the floor, dividing the church into two equal parts, with one ornamented doorway to the right for men and another to the left for women. Cogitosus wrote that in one chief basilica, a multitude of people differing in rank and sex and position, separated by partitions in varied order, but with one mind, worshipped the Omnipotent God.

6. Giraldus Cambrensis describes the angelic Gospel Book of Kildare

   Kildare · town · Kildare · 1100–1199

   Giraldus Cambrensis, visiting Kildare in the twelfth century, described the marvellous illuminated book said to have been made at the dictation of an angel in Saint Brigid's time, praising its intricate figures and colours as seemingly the work of angelic rather than human skill; the book was preserved at the Kildare monastery until it was lost.

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   This book was held as a sacred treasure in Kildare. It was preserved in the Monastery there until the twelfth century. It must have perished by the hands of one or other of the desecrating bands that laid waste the monasteries of our country and robbed them of their treasures. Giraldus Cambrensis, who saw the work in that century, thus describes its contents: "Of all the wonders of Kildare, | have found nothing more wonderful than the marvellous book written in the time of Saint Brigid, and, as they say, at the dictation of an angel. The book contains the Concordance of the Gospels according to Saint Jerome, and every page is filled with divers figures, most accurately marked out with various colours. Here you behold a majestic face divinely drawn, there the mystical forms of the Evangelists, each having sometimes six, sometimes four, and sometimes two wings; here an eagle, there a calf, again a human face and a lion, and other figures in infinite variety, so cleverly wrought together that if you looked carelessly at them, they would seem like a uniform blot without skill or study, rather than an exquisite inter-weaving of figures, where all is skill and

   perfection of art. But if you look closely, with all the acuteness of sight that you can command, and examine the inmost secrets of that wondrous art, you will discover such delicate, such subtle, such fine and closely-wrought lines, twisted and inter-woven in such intricate knots, and adorned with such fresh and brilliant colours, that you will readily acknowledge the whole to have been the result of angelic rather than human skill. The more frequently | behold it, and the more diligently | examine it, the more numerous are the beauties | discover in it, and the more | am lost in renewed admiration of it."

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   As the companion tells it

   Coming through Kildare now. In the twelfth century, a man named Giraldus Cambrensis came this way and saw something he never forgot. A sacred book was held in the monastery here, written, as people said, in the time of Saint Brigid, at the dictation of an angel. It contained the Concordance of the Gospels according to Saint Jerome. Every page was filled with figures drawn in various colours. Giraldus described what he saw: faces divinely drawn, the mystical forms of the Evangelists with sometimes six wings, sometimes four, sometimes two. An eagle, a calf, a human face, a lion, and other figures in infinite variety, all woven together. He said that if you looked carelessly, the pages seemed a blot without skill. But if you looked closely, you found delicate, subtle, closely-wrought lines twisted in intricate knots, adorned with fresh and brilliant colours. He wrote, "you will readily acknowledge the whole to have been the result of angelic rather than human skill." The more he looked, the more beauties he found, and the more lost he was in renewed admiration. The book was preserved in the monastery here until the twelfth century, when Giraldus saw it. After that, it must have perished at the hands of one of the desecrating bands that laid waste the monasteries and robbed them of their treasures.

7. Saint Brigid's Falcon at the Round Tower of Kildare

   Kildare · town · Kildare

   A falcon associated with Saint Brigid was said to perch atop the Round Tower of Kildare since her own days, chasing off rival birds, flying seasonally to the mountains of Glendalough, until it was killed by a rustic.

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   A curious story is related by Giraldus Cambrensis as having been in vogue amongst the people of Kildare in the century in which he lived and wrote. A falcon was accustomed to take its rest on the top of the Round Tower, the only remnant today of Kildare's former ecclesiastical greatness. It was said that this bird had been seen ever since the days of Saint Brigid, circling round the tower and resting when weary on its summit. In the presence of some soldiers and civilians this bird was seen chasing some wild birds and water fowl over the plain of Kildare. It had been trained to this sport long years before. No rival would this strange bird allow to perch on, or remain about Kildare Church.

   The inhabitants had a great awe and veneration for the bird, which they called "Saint Brigid's Falcon". It was usual for it at breeding time to wing its flight to the mountains of Glendalough. After the usual interval it returned and took up its old position as sentinel and guardian over the ecclesiastical buildings of Kildare. It was killed by a rustic in a cowardly fashion by a blow of a stick at a moment when the bird was stretching forward to receive food from his hand.

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   As the companion tells it

   Up ahead is Kildare, a town the road passes through, and the Round Tower there is the last remnant of its old ecclesiastical greatness. Giraldus Cambrensis tells a curious story that was current among the people of Kildare in his own century. A falcon was accustomed to rest on the top of the Round Tower. It was said that this bird had been seen ever since the days of Saint Brigid, circling round the tower and resting when weary on its summit. In the presence of some soldiers and civilians the bird was seen chasing wild birds and water fowl over the plain of Kildare. It had been trained to this sport long years before. No rival would this strange bird allow to perch on, or remain about Kildare Church. The inhabitants had a great awe and veneration for the bird, which they called Saint Brigid's Falcon. At breeding time it was usual for it to wing its flight to the mountains of Glendalough. After the usual interval it returned and took up its old position as sentinel and guardian over the ecclesiastical buildings of Kildare. It was killed by a rustic in a cowardly fashion, by a blow of a stick at a moment when the bird was stretching forward to receive food from his hand.

8. Saint Brigid's storehouse miracle in her family home

   Faughart · parish · Louth

   As a child, Brigid was placed in charge of the family dairy and gave away so much butter and milk to the poor that the supply was nearly exhausted. When her mother was about to discover the shortfall, Brigid prayed and the dairy was miraculously refilled, astonishing her mother and the maids who witnessed the prayer.

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   pitiable objects of human suffering, she beheld Him Who had, of His own free will, selected poverty and suffering for His portion on earth. She well knew that in helping them in their dire necessities, and in relieving their distress, she was giving the greatest honour and glory to Him Who proclaims Himself the Father of the Poor. It must have been pleasing and profitable to behold this little child distributing her gifts to the poor. The air was filled with blessings and benedictions upon her head The cry of distress was stifled; the impoverished and needy bodies were strengthened; the wan look of hunger was exchanged for that of radiant joy and delight, as the Saint poured her charity into the outstretched hands of the crowds that followed her. She erected a store-house into which she put everything in the Shape of food and clothes she could collect. The meals, necessary for her own nourishment, oftentimes found their way into this hiding-place. It is related in the records of her life that her mother placed her in charge of the dairy and of the maids employed therein. To her surprise, our Saint found that on one occasion her excessive liberality had exceeded the bounds of prudence. The butter and milk had disappeared to the extent that barely sufficient remained for the family needs. Knowing that her mother would soon discover the deficiency in the department she had committed to her care, she sought aid from Heaven, whence she had so often experienced favours in time of need. Her prayer was heard. The place was filled by unseen hands with a lavish provision of milk and butter, so much so that her mother was astonished at the ample supply the dairy contained. She praised the maids for their industry and energy in the discharge of their duties. The maids well knew the source whence the abundance of milk and butter had come. They had seen their beloved child-mistress join her tiny hands in prayer. They watched, in silence and with awe, the appealing face of Brigid raised towards heaven in earnest supplication for help in this crucial moment, brought

   about by her generosity to her friends, the poor. They joined their thanksgiving to those of the saintly child for the miracle that had been wrought by her supplication and prayers.

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9. Tobar-Brighde well and the parting of the Shannon at Athlone

   Athlone · town · Westmeath

   At Athlone on the Shannon, a well called Tobar-Brighde became a site of pilgrimage and miraculous cures. When boatmen demanded an exorbitant fee to ferry Brigid and her nuns, she blessed the swollen river, which subsided so they could ford it on foot.

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   In her return journey to her native Leinster, we are told in her Fourth Life, Saint Brigid arrived at Ath-Luain, the historic town of Athlone, situated on the banks of the lordly Shannon. Near this town there is a celebrated well called Tobar-Brighde, or Bridewell, to which pilgrimages were frequently made in former days. Numerous are the miracles recorded as having taken place there through the intercession of the Saint. The fame of this well had reached far and near, so much so that even the Pagans brought their sick there that they might receive a share of the favours so liberally bestowed on their Christian kinsfolk. It was in Athlone that the miracle related in many of her ancient lives took place, in presence of a large gathering of people. The boatmen refused to row herself and her companions across the Shannori to the Meath side, on their homeward journey to her native province, without payment of an exorbitant fee. They told the ferrymen that they would walk across rather than pay such an impossible sum. The boatmen and many of the crowd laughed at this threat. One of the nuns turned to Saint Brigid and asked her to bless the swollen waters of the river that they might so decrease as to permit them to ford it and dispense with the services of the boatmen. To the astonishment of these assembled to witness the departure of the Saint and her religious, the angry waters subsided to such an extent that it reached scarcely to the knees of Saint Brigid and the nuns. Amid the prayers and benedictions of the crowds on the river's banks, they bade farewell to Connaught, where a hearty Irish welcome had been everywhere extended to them.

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   As the companion tells it

   As you come through Athlone, on the Shannon, this is where Saint Brigid stopped on her return journey to her native Leinster. The Fourth Life calls the place Ath-Luain. Near the town there is a celebrated well, Tobar-Brighde, and pilgrimages were frequently made to it in former days. Numerous miracles are recorded there through her intercession. The fame of the well reached so far that even pagans brought their sick there, seeking the favours so liberally bestowed on their Christian kinsfolk. It was here too that the miracle told in many of her ancient lives took place, before a large gathering of people. Brigid and her companions were on their homeward journey to Leinster, and they needed to cross the Shannon to the Meath side. The boatmen refused to row them across without an exorbitant fee. Brigid and her nuns told the ferrymen they would walk across rather than pay such an impossible sum. The boatmen and many of the crowd laughed at this threat. One of the nuns turned to Brigid and asked her to bless the swollen waters of the river, that they might decrease enough to ford it and do without the boatmen. To the astonishment of all assembled to witness the departure of the Saint and her religious, the angry waters subsided until the river reached scarcely to the knees of Brigid and the nuns. Amid the prayers and benedictions of the crowds on the river's banks, they bade farewell to Connaught.

10. Translation of Brigid's relics to Down for safety

    near Downpatrick · town · Down · 835

    To protect Brigid's relics from Danish raids, they were secretly translated to Down around 835, where the exact burial spot was known only to a few ecclesiastics and the tradition was later lost even by the townspeople.

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    many occasions. Owing to the frequent and violent assaults made on Kildare and its inhabitants it was thought prudent to remove the remains of Saint Brigid to a more secure and sheltered resting-place. There can be no doubt that these fierce marauders would not have spared her shrine in their work of desecration. There was imminent danger, then, that the sacred relics of Saint Brigid might be destroyed during these frequent Danish invasions. It was decided that they should be removed, and at once, to a place of greater security and safety. The place selected was Down, in the North of Ireland Yet here they were not absolutely safe from the desecrating hands of the enemy. The town of Down, to which the body of the Saint was translated about the year 835, was subjected to frequent incursions and raids by these barbarian hordes. In fact, Down was sorely harassed and oppressed by the enemies of Ireland and her religion, down to the twelfth century. It was frequently given over to the devouring flames, kindled by the hands of these vandals. After a Conference of priests and people, it was decided to bury the remains in a place where they could not be easily discovered. The secret of the particular spot of earth where the body of Saint Brigid was interred was confided only toa few ecclesiastics of exemplary piety. In this way the precious treasure was preserved for the veneration of future generations. The secret must have died with those privileged to hold it. It is a remarkable fact that the tradition regarding the burial place of Saint Brigid passed out of the minds of the people of Down not many centuries after the transfer of her remains. What is still more astounding, the tradition concerning the burial in the same tomb of the three patrons of Ireland - Saint Patrick, Saint Brigid, and Saint Columba, was completely lost by the inhabitants.

    But though Down had ceased to hold these holy traditions, it was fitting that their loss should be fully repaired by the prayers of a saintly Bishop of that See. Malachy occupied

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11. Brigid restores sight to her blind companion Daria at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    At Kildare, Saint Brigid and her blind companion Daria conversed through the night; when dawn broke over the plains, Brigid prayed that Daria might see the beautiful landscape, and her sight was miraculously restored. Daria then asked to be made blind again, fearing earthly beauty would distract her from heavenly things.

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    heavenly things. The hours passed so quickly by, so wrapt were they in their subject, that Brigid did not perceive that the night had passed and that the dawn heralded the birth of another day. It was ushered in with all the attendant splendours of a perfect summer day in Ireland. When Saint Brigid beheld the plains of Kildare, bathed in a dazzling sunlight, she threw herself on her knees, and in fervent accents thanked the great Creator, Who made earth and sky so beautiful for mortal eyes to feast upon. Her heart was sad that her sightless companion could not behold the beauty of the handiwork of the Creator, upon which she gazed in ecstasy. She prayed that God might permit Daria to enjoy the enchanting panorama spread out before them. The request was granted. Saint Brigid gently kissed her companion, and the latter's eyes looked, for the first time, on the transcendent beauty of the scene which had captured the heart of the Abbess. Having looked again and again in wild raptures of delight on the glorious landscape that lay before them, Daria, much to the Saint's consternation, turned to her and said: "Mother, shut my eyes again, for | fear lest the more | enjoy the sight of earthly things, the less | may be able to see the heavenly, things." Needless to say that Saint Brigid hesitated to comply with the wish expressed by Daria. But the servant of God would not be put off. At last Saint Brigid was compelled to yield from the motive put forward by Daria, and touching the eyes of her spiritual child they returned to the sightless condition in which she was born.

    "Laborare est Orare"

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    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, you are in the town where Saint Brigid once sat talking through the night with her blind companion Daria. They were so wrapped in their conversation that Brigid did not notice the night had passed and dawn was breaking. When she saw the plains of Kildare bathed in dazzling summer sunlight, she knelt and thanked the Creator for making earth and sky so beautiful. Her heart ached that Daria could not see it, and she prayed that God might let her companion enjoy the enchanting panorama before them. The prayer was granted. Brigid kissed Daria, and for the first time her eyes opened on the transcendent landscape that had captured the abbess's heart. Daria gazed again and again in wild delight at the glorious scene. Then she turned to Brigid and said, "Mother, shut my eyes again, for fear lest the more I enjoy the sight of earthly things, the less I may be able to see the heavenly." Brigid hesitated, but Daria would not be put off. At last Brigid touched her companion's eyes, and they returned to the sightless condition in which she was born.

12. Cogitosus describes the rise of the city of Kildare around the oak

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    The eighth-century monk Cogitosus recorded that when Brigid returned to her own country she was received with great joy, established a monastery of many virgins, and a great city grew up around the cell named for the oak tree, Cill-Dara.

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    assigned to her, in which the Saint of God led a wonderful life. There she erected a monastery of many virgins, and there, in honour of Saint Brigid, a very great city afterwards sprung up, which is at this day the metropolis of the Lagenians. That cell is called in the Celtic tongue, Kill-Dara, which sounds in Latin Cella-Quercus, that is the 'Cell of the Oak.' For there was a very high oak tree there which Saint Brigid loved much and blessed, of which the trunk still remains. No one dares to cut it; but he who can break off a particle of it with his hands deems it a great treasure, hoping for the aid of God by means of it, because through the benediction of Saint Brigid many miracles have been performed by that wood. The name borne by the monastery was given also to the city."

    In the famous "Book of Lismore," in the possession of the Devonshire family, many particulars of the erection of the Kildare monastery are given. The Irish life of the Saint contained in that priceless book relates that Saint Mel, who received the profession of Saint Brigid in Ardagh, was invited to aid her in marking out the site of her new foundation. Whilst engaged in this work, it is said, Ailill, a great chieftain of Leinster, passed by with a hundred horseloads of wattles, with which he intended to build a palace. Saint Brigid told some of the nuns to ask him for these materials to construct the great Convent of Kildare. To the request of the Sisters Ailill gave a somewhat curt and decided refusal. He was forced to change his mind on beholding the horses drawing the wattles fall, as if stricken dead, to the ground. He had to acknowledge the intervention of Divine Providence on behalf of the Saint and her Community. The drivers urged the horses with loudsounding lashes of their thick whips to rise to their feet, and draw their burdens to their destination. But all to no purpose. Drivers and horses seemed as if fixed to the ground. The wattles were given to a more sacred use than

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As you come through Kildare, you are passing the town that grew from a single oak tree. The eighth-century monk Cogitosus wrote that when Brigid returned to her own country she was received with great joy and established a monastery of many virgins here. A great city sprang up around her cell, which in the Celtic tongue was called Kill-Dara, the Cell of the Oak. Brigid loved and blessed a very high oak tree on the site, and in Cogitosus's day its trunk still remained. No one dared cut it. Anyone who could break off a piece of it with their hands considered it a great treasure, hoping for God's aid through it, because many miracles had been performed by that wood through Brigid's blessing. The Book of Lismore adds more. Saint Mel, who had received Brigid's profession at Ardagh, was invited to help mark out the site of the new foundation. While they were at this work, Ailill, a chieftain of Leinster, passed by with a hundred horseloads of wattles, meaning to build a palace. Brigid told some of the nuns to ask him for the materials. Ailill refused, but the horses drawing the wattles fell to the ground as if stricken dead. The drivers lashed them with their whips, but the animals would not rise. Ailill had to acknowledge the intervention of divine providence, and the wattles were given to build the great convent of Kildare.

13. Deathbed conversion tied to church site in Tullow

    Tullow · town · Carlow

    Dr Delaney struggled to obtain a freehold site for a church in Tullow due to Protestant ownership, similarly in Mountrath. A Protestant gentleman eventually agreed to sell a site, and his wife converted to Catholicism, declaring on her deathbed that she wished it known she died a Catholic.

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    them. The good priest gathered his flock in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament. The welcome news reached him that a Protestant gentleman was willing to sell him a site for his church. The wife of this man received the grace of conversion. In her dying moments those around her deathbed were insisting on her having a visit from the Protestant minister so that, they said, "the disgraceful fact of her conversion might not be made public." "No," she said, "I will not; let it be known that | die a Catholic."

    The Rebellion of 1798 interrupted the Bishop's plans for the building of his church and the erection of a convent for the nuns. When this political storm had passed over and the blessing of peace had descended on our Island, the good pastor set about the works that were nearest and dearest his heart. Not having been successful in obtaining freehold ground for the buildings in Tullow, he rented a piece of ground which he considered the most suitable for the objects in view. Having erected a new church and a small convent, close by, for the nuns, he determined to dedicate the congregation of pious young women he had founded to the Patroness of Ireland, Saint Brigid. The reason for the selection of this great Irish Saint as the Patroness and model of the congregation of religious women is given clearly in his own words, "She had been, heretofore, raised up and employed by Almighty God to fill the kingdom with religious Virgins." Six pious and thoroughly sincere young women were selected to form the first community of Dr. Delaney's Order.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

14. The Book of Leinster written by the Bishop of Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare · 1148–1160

    The great manuscript known as the Book of Leinster was written by Finn MacGorman while he was Bishop of Kildare between 1148 and 1160, later removed from the Franciscans and held at Trinity College.

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    the noble work for which their Foundress had established her great monastery on the plains of Kildare. Judging by the description given by Cogitosus, whom we have fully quoted in another place, of the dimensions and architectural design of the Church of Saint Brigid we can fully understand what a flourishing city Kildare must have been in the eighth century, in which he lived. The fame of its teaching and teachers attracted thousands of the youth of both sexes to this home of learning and sanctity. Many Saints began and ended their saintly lives within the walls of the monastic buildings, erected there in honour and under the patronage of Saint Brigid. The See of Kildare was ruled for centuries by men of learning and piety. Many of their names are to be found on the Calendar of Irish Saints. The great Manuscript known as the "Book of Leinster," was written by Finn MacGorman, who was Bishop of Kildare from A.D. 1148 to 1160. Dr. Healy, speaking of this Manuscript, says: "At present it consists of 177 loose leaves of vellum, which are preserved in Trinity College, and seven additional leaves of the same original, which belong to the Franciscans of the lrish province. No doubt, the entire work belonged to them Originally, but was taken from them by force or fraud, and thus found its way to Trinity College. Its contents are of an exceedingly various and interesting character - heroic tales and poems, genealogies, calendars of the Saints, and various tracts used in the Irish Schools, dealing with both sacred and profane learning. Thus we see that through centuries of time and change, the lamp of faith and learning was trimmed and kept brightly burning through the devotion and self-sacrifice of numberless men and women, who embraced the religious life under the patronage and protection of the sweet ‘Saint of the Lagenians.'"

    The clergy and people of Kildare treasured for centuries after her death the relics of Saint Brigid with a tender and filial affection. The Danes plundered and sacked their city on

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare town, you are travelling through a place of old learning. The great manuscript known as the Book of Leinster was written here by Finn MacGorman while he was Bishop of Kildare, between 1148 and 1160. It survives today as 177 loose leaves of vellum kept in Trinity College, with seven further leaves of the same original held by the Franciscans of the Irish province. The full work belonged to the Franciscans originally but, as Dr. Healy put it, was taken from them by force or fraud and so found its way to Trinity College. Its contents are various and interesting: heroic tales and poems, genealogies, calendars of the Saints, and tracts used in the Irish schools, covering both sacred and profane learning. The See of Kildare was ruled for centuries by men of learning and piety, many of whose names are on the Calendar of Irish Saints. According to Cogitosus, writing in the eighth century, the Church of Saint Brigid was of such dimensions and architectural design that Kildare must have been a flourishing city in his time. The fame of its teaching and teachers drew thousands of the youth of both sexes to this home of learning and sanctity. Through centuries of time and change, as the source says, the lamp of faith and learning was kept brightly burning here.

15. The collapsing roof at Callan during Mass

    Callan · town · Kilkenny

    In the Penal era, one of the makeshift Catholic churches in Callan had a roof so decayed that it collapsed during the celebration of Mass, with the congregation holding it up until the priest finished the divine mysteries.

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    its divine origin. Many a tale is told of the dreadful condition of the so-called churches. In one of them in the town of Callan the roof collapsed during the celebration of Mass. The congregation held up the tottering roof until the priest had concluded the divine mysteries.

    The Catholics of those days had a colossal task before them. They had to build up almost from the very foundations the Church which Saint Patrick and Saint Brigid had left ina flourishing and prosperous condition. They had to reconstruct their churches (any left them, for the best had been appropriated by their enemies), their monasteries, their schools, and strive to re-establish in Ireland some of her ancient ecclesiastical solendour. They put their hand to the plough, and did not look back. Little by little, church spires rose in the valleys and on the holy hills of Eire. Convents for men and women were erected. Bishops and priests increased in numbers. The Catholic Church was assuming her holiday attire and regaining a measure of her former greatness and glory.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

16. The miracle of the mended vase at the King of Teffia's banquet

    Ardagh · parish · Longford

    At a royal banquet, a servant accidentally shattered a priceless vase, and the enraged king ordered his death. Saint Mel took the fragments to Brigid's convent near Ardagh, and through her prayers the vase was miraculously restored, saving the servant's life.

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    Saint Mel "of the honeyed tongue" had great confidence in the efficacy of Brigid's prayers. He had appointed her Abbess and ruler of the nuns forming the first Irish Community. Whenever he desired to obtain some special favour from God, or found himself in some difficult position, from which he sought release, he had recourse to Saint Brigid and her sisters in religion. He had good reason to feel confidence in their intercessory power, because no request he had ever asked them to pray for was refsued. The King of Teffia, the territory in which Ardagh is situated, gave a great banquet to his chieftains. Saint Mel was an honoured guest of the King on the occasion. The King commanded one of his servants to lay upon the table a vase of most exquisite workmanship and priceless ornamentation. The poor servant accidentally allowed the vase to fall from his hands. It broke into a thousand fragments on the ground. The King, in a wild state of rage, ordered the servant to be immediately put to death. Saint Mel interceded for the servant and asked to have the death sentence postponed for a little time. He told the other servants to gather all the fragments they could and carry them to the Convent of Saint Brigid near at hand. He went in haste to inform Saint Brigid and ask her prayers for the servant's life. The vase was restored to its original state, and was carried by the hands of Saint Mel back to the banquet table. When the King and his chieftains saw the precious vessel, they pronounced it even more beautiful than before. Saint Mel related, for the edification of those who had embraced the Catholic Faith, and as a convincing proof of its Divine origin for those still adhering to Druidical worship, that God had wrought this miracle in response to the prayers of Saint Brigid.

    Our Saint was specially requested by Saint Mel to accompany him to a Convention of the Clergy that was held at Telltown on the banks of the Blackwater, in the County Meath. It is positively stated by ancient writers that Saint

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17. Tullow's bridge, castle, and Colonel Butler's stand

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1650–1767

    Tullow town in County Carlow has a five-arch bridge dating to 1767 spanning the Slaney. The town was an appendage to a castle built by early English settlers under Hugh De Lacy, later held by the Earl of Ormonde, where Colonel Butler made an unsuccessful stand against Parliamentarian forces in 1650.

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    historic town of Tullow, County Carlow. Tullow is an ‘portant and thriving town, pleasantly and picturesquely reposing on the banks of the river Slaney. A bridge of five arches, dating back to the year 1767, spans the river, and by reason of its antiquity and solidity attracts the attention of the visitor. The town is said to have been an appendage to a castle built there by the early English settlers under the direction of Hugh De Lacy. It came in the course of time into the possession of the Earl of Ormonde. Colonel Butler, a member of that family, in 1650, made a gallant but unsuccessful stand against the Parliamentarian forces under the command of Colonels Hewson and Reynolds. No vestige of this once formidable stronghold remains to tell of its ancient glories, and to mark the site of what was once the chief pride and mainstay of Tullow and its inhabitants.

    As far back as the year 1315 an Augustinian Monastery was founded in Tullow by Hugh Tallon and Simon Lombard. The grant made by these good men to the sons of Saint Augustine received the royal sanction in the reign of Edward lll - 1331. The establishment of this Monastery of Augustinians in the town had the effect of attracting many to make their home there, and helped considerably to raise

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

18. Founding of the Brigidine Order in Tullow, 1807

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1807

    On 1 February 1807, the Feast of Saint Brigid, the Order of Brigidines came into existence in Tullow when six young women formed the first community under Dr Delaney, who blessed the house, said Mass, and gave each sister a religious name.

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    On the 1st February, 1807, the Feast of Saint Brigid, the Order of Brigidines, or Sisters of Saint Brigid, came into existence. The sisters had spent the vigil of this glorious day in humble and earnest prayer and preparation. They assembled in their new convent on the morning of the feast. Their founder, now Bishop of the diocese, blessed the house,

    said Mass in their chapel, and gave Benediction of the Most Holy Sacrament. He then left them to pour out their hearts to God in humble thanksgiving in the presence of Him Whom they had chosen to serve for the rest of their days on earth. He returned in the afternoon and gave to each sister a religiouS name by which she was afterwards to be known to her sisters and the outside world; he then appointed one of their number Superioress, to enforce discipline and to watch over the spiritual and temporal interests of the young community. He wrote for them a daily rule of life which he insisted they should rigidly observe for their own personal sanctification and the edification of the faithful, who were watching anxiously the infant footsteps of this religious foundation, in which they took more than a passing interest. The Holy Rule of the Brigidines is written with a view to lead its subjects to the attainment of the highest personal sanctification by the path of love rather than by that of rigid austerities. The religious rise at 5.30 a.m. each morning; a full hour is spent in prayer before hearing Mass. The day is divided between schools, meals, recreation and spiritual duties. Strict silence is observed at stated times of the day. The Bishop, though kind and indulgent, was a strict disciplinarian where the observance of the religious Rule he had formulated for his nuns was concerned.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

19. Multiplication of loaves at Saint Laisre's convent

    Kilbride · townland · Wicklow

    During a visit to Saint Laisre's cell, when Saint Patrick and a large crowd sought hospitality, the nuns had only twelve loaves, an egg and a little milk. Brigid miraculously multiplied the food to satisfy everyone, with surplus remaining, and Laisre gave her convent to Brigid.

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    find in their store. Saint Brigid said, to their astonishment, that these were amply sufficient for all who had gathered there on that memorable day. The Saint commanded the Scriptures to be read by one of the nuns of Saint Laisre's community. The food and drink were miraculously multiplied, so that, after having satisfied the wants of this great gathering, there remained sufficient to replenish the Convent store-room. Saint Laisre, as a thanksgiving offering for the favour Heaven, through Brigid's intercession, had granted to her and her community, offered her Convent and Church to God and Brigid for ever.

    A bond of holy friendship existed between Saint Brigid and Saint Ere, or Eric, of Slane, on the banks of the Boyne. It appears from her Acts that she paid him a visit, and accompanied him on a tour to his native province of Munster. Saint Ere, or Ercus, was a man of profound learning and sanctity, a bishop, and one of the earliest disciples of Saint Patrick. The "Pearl of Ireland," as our Saint is beautifully called, was desirous of visiting certain consecrated places and holy persons in Munster. She availed herself of this opportunity, afforded by Saint Ere, who was about to visit his relatives, who were great nobles and princes in Munster. One day, while on their journey, Saint Brigid said to the Bishop: "O, venerable father, point out to me the quarter of Munster in which your family resides." The Bishop pointed out their territory to his questioner. u At present," said Saint Brigid, "a war is there waging between your tribe and another clan." The Bishop exclaimed: "O holy Mother! | believe what thou hast told me is true, for when | last left them to see you they were in a state of discord." "O Father," said Saint Brigid, "your people are now routed." One of Saint Eric's disciples asked Brigid the question: "How are you able to see the fight at such a distance?" The Bishop gravely rebuked this cleric for daring to question the unmistakable gift of vision with which the Holy Spirit had

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20. Solemn translation of relics at Down Cathedral, 1186

    near Downpatrick · town · Down · 1186

    Following papal sanction from Urban III and the arrival of Cardinal Vivian as legate, the relics of Patrick, Brigid and Columba were solemnly translated to a more conspicuous place within Down Cathedral on 9 June 1186.

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    the Bishopric of Down in the year 1185. King John had made his advent into Ireland in that year. Malachy had set his heart on discovering the exact burial ground of Ireland's greatest saints, and for this purpose had recourse to long and incessant prayer. His petition was granted ina marvellous manner. The late Canon O'Hanlon, in his Life of Saint Brigid, gives a detailed account of this occurrence: "While engaged in fervent prayer and within the Church of his Cathedral city, Malachy saw a ray of light like a sunbeam extending itself through the Church. Finally it settled over the graves of those inhumed Saints. The Bishop was exceedingly rejoiced at this vision, and he prayed more earnestly that the ray of light might remain until he had discovered the relics. Then rising and having procured the necessary implements, he went to the illuminated spot and dug beneath. In fine, he disinterred the bodies of the three Saints. The tomb or grave of Saint Patrick was fixed ina central cave or compartment, with the remains of Saint Brigid and Saint Columba on either side. He then withdrew those precious relics and placed them in three separate coffins. Afterwards he buried them in that same spot, which he took care to mark with great exactness. Malachy related the particulars of his vision to John De Courcey, the Governor of Down. This renowned warrior, being distinguished for his zeal in the cause of religion, concurred with the Bishop, that a message should be despatched to Rome with an humble supplication, addressed to the Sovereign Chief of the faithful - Urban III. His sanction for a solemn translation of those relics was requested. To this petition Pope Urban assented, and immediately despatched Vivian, Cardinal Priest of Saint Stephen, as his Legate to Ireland. The public translation of die relics took place on the 9th of June, 1186, the festival of Saint Columbkille. With all due reverence and great solemnity, those remains were removed from the place of their deposition to a more conspicuous position arranged for their reception within the

    Cathedral Church." Here they reposed in peace and were pious objects of veneration down to that century, the sixteenth, which witnessed the demoniacal fury of Henry VIII against the Catholic religion and institutions in Ireland.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

21. The angelic scribe illuminates the Gospels at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    At Kildare, a scribe engaged in copying the Four Gospels for Brigid was visited by an angel bearing a tablet of beautiful designs to copy; when he protested it was beyond his skill, the angel instructed that Brigid's prayers would guide his hand, and the community prayed daily until the illuminated volume was completed.

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    illumination of the work upon which he was engaged. The poor scribe said the request of the angel was impossible, for the figures and designs were beyond his powers to copy or reproduce. The angel then said: "Let the Abbess pour forth her prayers before God's throne, so that the mind may grasp and the eye may discern these figures in all their details, and that your hand may be divinely guided in copying them." The scribe related to Saint Brigid the vision he had seen. The Saint collected her community, and unitedly they poured forth their prayers that the hand of the scribe might be enabled to perform the task set him by the angel of God. These prayers were continued during the progress of the work, and were daily said until the scribe had given the finishing touches to this transcendently beautiful volume of the Four Gospels.

    This book was held as a sacred treasure in Kildare. It was preserved in the Monastery there until the twelfth century. It must have perished by the hands of one or other of the desecrating bands that laid waste the monasteries of our country and robbed them of their treasures. Giraldus Cambrensis, who saw the work in that century, thus describes its contents: "Of all the wonders of Kildare, | have found nothing more wonderful than the marvellous book written in the time of Saint Brigid, and, as they say, at the dictation of an angel. The book contains the Concordance of the Gospels according to Saint Jerome, and every page is filled with divers figures, most accurately marked out with various colours. Here you behold a majestic face divinely drawn, there the mystical forms of the Evangelists, each having sometimes six, sometimes four, and sometimes two wings; here an eagle, there a calf, again a human face and a lion, and other figures in infinite variety, so cleverly wrought together that if you looked carelessly at them, they would seem like a uniform blot without skill or study, rather than an exquisite inter-weaving of figures, where all is skill and

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare town, you are passing the place where one of the great lost treasures of medieval Ireland was once kept. A scribe was at work here copying the Four Gospels for Saint Brigid. An angel appeared to him bearing a tablet filled with beautiful designs and told him to copy them. The scribe said it was impossible, that the figures were beyond his powers. The angel told him to let the Abbess pour forth her prayers before God's throne, so that his mind might grasp and his eye discern the figures, and his hand be divinely guided in copying them. The scribe went to Brigid and told her the vision. She gathered her community and they prayed together that his hand might be enabled to do what the angel had asked. They continued those prayers every day, all through the work, until he put the finishing touches to the volume. Giraldus Cambrensis saw the book in the 12th century. He wrote that of all the wonders of the town he found nothing more wonderful than this book, written in the time of Saint Brigid and, as they say, at the dictation of an angel. Every page was filled with figures marked out in various colours. Faces drawn divinely, the mystical forms of the Evangelists with six wings or four or two, an eagle, a calf, a lion, other figures in infinite variety, woven together so finely that a careless glance would see only a blot, rather than an exquisite interweaving where all is skill. The book was kept as a sacred treasure in the monastery there until the 12th century. After that it must have perished at the hands of whatever desecrating bands laid waste the monasteries and robbed them of their treasures.

22. Brigid's vision of a distant battle witnessed with Bishop Eric

    Slane · townland · Meath

    Travelling with Saint Ere of Slane toward Munster, Brigid described a battle taking place far away between his tribe and another clan, correctly foreseeing the decapitation of two brothers, later confirmed as true.

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    illuminated the mind of the Virgin, whose blessed companionship they were privileged to enjoy. Saint Eric then cried out: "O, Servant of God, sign our eyes that we may witness those things thou seest." Then the disciple, whom the Bishop had checked for his incredulity, with agonised voice and terror-stricken countenance, cried out: "Alas, also, my Lord, at this moment my eyes behold the decapitation of two brothers." Subsequent enquiries but too sadly confirmed the accuracy of the events, which the Spouse of Christ had so minutely detailed to her horrified and interested listeners.

    Another anecdote in connexion with this visit of our Saint to the province of Munster will, we hope, prove edifying and interesting to our readers. Saint Brigid was resting from her labours beside the sea-shore, not far from the house in which the good Bishop, Saint Eric, dwelt The place has been identified by the learned historian, Dr. Lanigan, as Kilbride, near Tramore, in the County Waterford Near this beautiful spot an Anchorite dwelt, who, by the austerity and singular purity of his life, had gathered round him a number of disciples. The news had reached them that Saint Brigid and her nuns, of whom they had heard so much, had taken up their abode not many miles away. The disciples approached their Spiritual Father and said to him: "O Father, let us visit Holy Brigid, that she may bless us." To which request the Anchorite replied: "My children, you know already my vow to visit no woman." This holy man and his disciples were on their way to form a hermitage on some lonely island off the lrish coast They were in close proximity to a cell, in which Saint Brigid was praying, when the request of the disciples was made.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Somewhere close to Slane, Brigid was travelling with Saint Eric toward the province of Munster when her mind was illuminated with a vision of a distant battle. Saint Eric cried out: "O, Servant of God, sign our eyes that we may witness those things thou seest." Brigid had been describing what she saw in minute detail to her horrified and interested listeners. Then a disciple, whom the Bishop had already corrected for his incredulity, cried out with an agonised voice and a terror-stricken countenance: "Alas, also, my Lord, at this moment my eyes behold the decapitation of two brothers." Subsequent enquiries confirmed the accuracy of the events Brigid had described. Later on that journey to Munster, Brigid rested by the sea-shore, not far from the house where the good Bishop Saint Eric dwelt. The historian Dr. Lanigan identified the place as Kilbride, near Tramore, in County Waterford. Near this spot an anchorite lived, a man whose austerity and singular purity of life had drawn a number of disciples to him. Word reached them that Saint Brigid and her nuns had taken up residence not many miles away. The disciples came to their spiritual father and said: "O Father, let us visit Holy Brigid, that she may bless us." The anchorite replied: "My children, you know already my vow to visit no woman." He and his disciples were on their way to establish a hermitage on some lonely island off the Irish coast, and were close to the cell where Brigid was praying, when the disciples made their request.

23. Historic plains surrounding Faughart

    Faughart · parish · Louth

    Cardinal Moran described the plains adjoining Faughart as historic ground, witnessing stirring scenes of Irish history from the days of Dathi and Fingall to those of Edward Bruce and O'Neill. A splendid view of Dundalk Bay and the Cooley mountains is obtained from the village.

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    surrounded by the fertile valleys of Louth. A splendid view of Dundalk Bay, with the Cooley mountains in the distance, is obtained from Faughart. The country around the birth-place of the Saint abounds in historic memories. Cardinal Moran, in his short Life of Saint Brigid, writing of Faughart, says: "Every inch of the adjoining plains is historic ground, and from the days of Dathi and Fingall, to those of Edward Bruce and O'Neill, and still later times, some of the most stirring scenes of Irish history were witnessed there." A stream runs through a field near the Holy Well. Pilgrimages are made by the people of the district, and from distant parts of the country to this stream, in the pious hope of being freed from their maladies, through the intercession of her who was born near its waters. Mention of Faughart is made by Saint Bernard in his life of Saint Malachy. He says that "three Bishops came into the village of Faughart, which they say was the birthplace of Saint Brigid."

    The parents of Saint Brigid were Dubtach and Brotseach. The father was descended from a noble line of ancestors. He belonged to the race of Con of the Hundred Battles, one of the most famous warrior Kings of Ireland He was a Druid of Leinster. Brotseach, like her husband, could lay claim to Royal descent. She was the daughter of Dalbronach, of the noble house of the O'Connors. It is not certain at what particular period the parents of our Saint received the grace of baptism. Some say that this sacrament was administered to them by the hands of Saint Patrick, while others assert that they were baptized by one of his immediate disciples. It is most probable that they received the grace of conversion before their saintly child was born.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

24. Saint Brigid's consecration and first convent at Ardagh

    Ardagh · parish · Longford

    Saint Maccaille brought Saint Brigid and her seven companions to Saint Mel, Bishop of Ardagh, who received them warmly and requested Brigid to erect a convent there. This became the first conventual house of strict religious observance in Ireland, established on land given near Mel's own church.

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    Saint complied with the request of the holy Bishop. Ina short space of time the work was brought to completion. Many willing hands set to work to prepare the home for these Spouses of Christ. Generous donations poured in upon them to help in the good work. Nothing was left undone, on the part of the people, to show their appreciation of the benefit bestowed on them by the establishment of this Convent of Nuns in Ardagh. It was the first Conventual House of strict religious observance planted on Irish soil. Saint Maccaille had formed a religious community, as we have seen, in his own territory of Westmeath. It was only a place of novitiate or probation. Saint Brigid and her companions lived there in preparation for the solemn act of perpetual consecration to the service of God which took place in Ardagh, in the presence of Bishop Saint Mel. Thus we may, with truth, say that at Ardagh was established the first religious community of consecrated virgins in Ireland

    It is related in the ancient records that Saint Maccaille invited Saint Brigid and her companions to partake of his hospitality. Before tasting the dishes she had set before him, she asked him as a special favour to discourse to them on heavenly things. He selected the Eight Beatitudes as his subject. When he had finished, he requested her to select one or other of the Beatitudes which she thought might be most suitable for the members of the Community to cultivate and make the basis of their life-work. Saint Brigid turned to her companions and said: "My dearly beloved Sisters in Christ, we are in number eight virgins, and eight virtues are proposed to us for your observance and sanctification. Although whoever has one virtue in a perfect degree must necessarily possess many other religious excellencies, as every single virtue is bound up and connected with one of a different kind; however, let each one of you select whatever particular Beatitude you may desire for your special devotion." The Sisters were greatly

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

25. Saint Conlaeth's metalwork school at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    Saint Conlaeth, 'Saint Brigid's Brazier,' ran a school at Kildare for designing and making silver and gold vessels, chalices, and bells, with many nuns trained in this craft to supply churches throughout Ireland.

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    We have seen that Saint Conlaeth, the first Bishop of Kildare, was known throughout Ireland as "Saint Brigid's Brazier." He was proficient in the art of designing and making the precious silver and gold vessels and ornaments, requisite for the service and adornment of the Church. Saint Brigid formed a school, under his management and direction, for instruction in gold and silver work. Chalices of exquisite design and delicate workmanship were made in Kildare, to supply the wants of her own and the many Churches now being built throughout the island. Bells were also manufactured by Saint Conlaeth and his young artificers. Many of the nuns were employed in designing these works of art, and in helping the young to gain a skilled knowledge of this most useful and beautiful handicraft. From the few specimens preserved to us out of the many spoilations to which our religious institutions and treasuries were subjected, we may gain some idea of the high state of perfection attained in ancient Ireland by those devoted to the art of metal-working.

    Though manual labour formed a very important part in the daily life of Saint Brigid's sisterhood, it must not be thought that the intellectual domain was left practically uncultivated. The Sisters, with Saint Brigit's energy and example to stimulate them, had a wide scope for their untiring zeal in the management and direction of the scholars that flocked from all parts of Ireland to their schools. It was the custom in ancient Ireland that wherever a Convent or Monastery was erected, there also should be established a school under the care of the nuns or monks. Religion and education were always to be found side by side in the place where religious communities had taken up their

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Kildare, the town that gave the county its name. In early Ireland this was a centre of craft and learning under Saint Brigid, and the man she put in charge of the metalwork was Saint Conlaeth, the first Bishop of Kildare. He was known throughout Ireland as "Saint Brigid's Brazier." Saint Brigid formed a school under his management and direction for instruction in gold and silver work. Chalices of exquisite design and delicate workmanship were made in Kildare to supply the wants of her own church and the many churches then being built throughout the island. Bells were also manufactured by Saint Conlaeth and his young artificers. Many of the nuns were employed in designing these works of art and in helping the young gain a skilled knowledge of the handicraft. Of the many pieces made here, only a few specimens survive, out of all the spoilations our religious institutions and treasuries were subjected to. Manual labour formed a very important part in the daily life of Saint Brigid's sisterhood, but the intellectual domain was not left uncultivated. Scholars flocked from all parts of Ireland to their schools. It was the custom in ancient Ireland that wherever a convent or monastery was erected, a school should also be established under the care of the nuns or monks. Religion and education were always found side by side where religious communities had settled.

26. Saint Kevin's visit to Brigid before founding Glendalough

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

    As a young man, Saint Kevin visited Brigid at Kildare seeking advice on his state of life; she counselled him to embrace the anchorite's penitential garb, and he went on to found the famous monastery and schools of Glendalough.

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    Saint Kevin, of Glendalough, when a young man, visited Saint Brigid, and sought her advice as to the state of life he should embrace. The Saint advised him to cast aside all worldly cares and honours, and to assume the penitential garb of the anchorite. He led a life of severest mortification and self-denial. The famous monastery and schools of Glendalough owe their foundation to him.

    From the north of Ireland, the infant son of a celebrated Irish chieftain was brought to Kildare. His parents wished Saint Brigid to stand sponsor for their child, and to have the sacramental waters poured on his head in the great Church attached to her Convent. At the Saint's request the name Tighernach was given to him. She prophesied that he would become a learned and saintly ecclesiastic. Her prophecy was realized, for Tighernach became a Bishop of great sanctity and founded the school of Clones. In the Irish Kalendars he is mentioned as the second Bishop of Clogher.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

27. The angel's warning saves Dubtach's household from fire

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    During a visit to her father Dubtach's house, an angel warned Brigid in her sleep that enemies intended to murder the household and burn the house; she roused everyone and they escaped just as the house was set ablaze.

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    Having selected the site which was to be the scene of her labours for the remaining years of her life, Saint Brigid paid a visit to the house of her father. Her mother had died during the Saint's long absence in other parts of Ireland. Dubtach, her father, and her relatives prepared a warm welcome for her. She remained only one night under the parental roof. During her sleep an angel appeared to her and warned her of a terrible disaster which threatened the lives of those near and dear to her by ties of blood. Thus spoke the angel: "Arise immediately and arouse your father, with his whole family, and your religious daughters, now sleeping, for with an intention of murdering your father and his household, an enemy approaches. But the Lord will prevent such intention on your account Depart instantly from this house, for the foe will set it on fire." The Saint obeyed the order and warned the inmates. All fled from the house in time to save their lives. They had gone only a short distance when they beheld, with sorrow, their home devoured by fire, which the hands of their enemies had kindled. Dubtach cried out to his daughter: "O holy Brigid, thy blessing has preserved us this night from impending death. We are now conscious of all those wonderful things predicted concerning thee." Saint Brigid answering said: "Not only this night, but so long as you live, blood shall not be shed within your dwelling."!

    When she returned to her new home, which was soon to develop into a religious establishment of vast dimensions, one of the Sisters said to her: "I pray that the angel of the

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, this is the town where Saint Brigid's life and work were centred. On a visit to her father Dubtach's house, she stayed just one night under his roof. Her mother had died during Brigid's long absence in other parts of Ireland, and Dubtach and his relatives had prepared a warm welcome for her. While she slept, an angel appeared and warned her of disaster. The angel told her to rise immediately and wake her father, his whole family, and her religious daughters, for an enemy was approaching with the intention of murdering the household, and the foe would set the house on fire. Brigid obeyed and warned everyone inside. All fled in time to save their lives. They had gone only a short distance when they saw their home devoured by flames, kindled by their enemies. Dubtach cried out to his daughter that her blessing had preserved them that night from death, and that they were now conscious of all the wonderful things predicted concerning her. Brigid answered him, saying not only that night but so long as he lived, blood should not be shed within his dwelling. She then returned to her new home, which was soon to develop into a religious establishment of vast dimensions.

28. Ailill's wattles fall as if dead until given to build Kildare convent

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    According to the Book of Lismore, chieftain Ailill refused to give wattles intended for his palace to build Brigid's convent; his horses drawing them collapsed as if dead until he relented and gave both materials and wages for the builders.

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    In the famous "Book of Lismore," in the possession of the Devonshire family, many particulars of the erection of the Kildare monastery are given. The Irish life of the Saint contained in that priceless book relates that Saint Mel, who received the profession of Saint Brigid in Ardagh, was invited to aid her in marking out the site of her new foundation. Whilst engaged in this work, it is said, Ailill, a great chieftain of Leinster, passed by with a hundred horseloads of wattles, with which he intended to build a palace. Saint Brigid told some of the nuns to ask him for these materials to construct the great Convent of Kildare. To the request of the Sisters Ailill gave a somewhat curt and decided refusal. He was forced to change his mind on beholding the horses drawing the wattles fall, as if stricken dead, to the ground. He had to acknowledge the intervention of Divine Providence on behalf of the Saint and her Community. The drivers urged the horses with loudsounding lashes of their thick whips to rise to their feet, and draw their burdens to their destination. But all to no purpose. Drivers and horses seemed as if fixed to the ground. The wattles were given to a more sacred use than

    that for which Ailill at first intended them. He gave not only the materials for the erection of the Convent, but also paid the "Saoir," or skilled workmen, their wages until it was completed. The Saint, in token of her gratitude for this favour, gladdened the heart of the renowned warrior by telling him that he would soon succeed to the throne of Leinster. She also foretold that the occupancy of the throne would remain amongst his descendants, and that they would be always able to overcome their enemies on the battlefield. Two of this King's daughters are honoured as Saints in the Calendar of the Irish Church.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    You are coming through Kildare, the town that grew around one of the most famous convents in Ireland. The Book of Lismore, once held by the Devonshire family, gives many particulars of how that convent was built. It says that Saint Mel, the same man who received Brigid's profession at Ardagh, was invited to help her mark out the site of the new foundation. While they were at this work, Ailill, a great chieftain of Leinster, passed by with a hundred horseloads of wattles. He meant to build himself a palace. Brigid told some of the nuns to ask him for the materials to construct the great Convent of Kildare. Ailill gave them a curt and decided refusal. Then the horses drawing the wattles fell to the ground, as if stricken dead. The drivers urged them with loud lashes of their thick whips to rise and draw their burdens. But all to no purpose. Drivers and horses seemed as if fixed to the ground. Ailill had to acknowledge the intervention of Divine Providence on behalf of the Saint and her community. The wattles were given to a more sacred use than he had first intended. He gave not only the materials, but also paid the skilled workmen their wages until the convent was completed. In token of her gratitude, Brigid gladdened the heart of the renowned warrior by telling him he would soon succeed to the throne of Leinster. She foretold that the throne would remain among his descendants, and that they would always overcome their enemies on the battlefield. Two of this king's daughters are honoured as saints in the calendar of the Irish Church.

29. Mountrath convent as pioneer of Brigidines in Australia

    Mountrath · town · Laois

    The Sisters of the convent in Mountrath, founded by Dr Delaney, were the pioneers of the Brigidine mission in Australia, responding to an appeal from the Bishop of Maitland and sending missioners to found houses abroad.

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    The pioneers of the Brigidines in Australia were the Sisters of the convent in Mountrath, founded by Most Rev. Dr. Delaney. Most Rev. Dr. Murray, Bishop of Maitland, applied to them for a foundation, and gladly did they respond to his appeal. A brave band of missioners left home and friends a second time, and settled in Coonamble, New South Wales, whence have gone several branches, the last of which is at Randwick, in the Archdiocese of Sydney, and under the special patronage of the Cardinal Archbishop. It is the Novitiate House for the Province of New South Wales. Abbeyleix soon followed the example of Mountrath and Tullow, and there are now twelve houses of the Brigidines in Australia and two in New Zealand.

    From his knowledge of the high esteem in which the Sisters of Saint Brigid are held by the clergy and laity of Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, the writer feels warranted in expressing the joy and gratitude that fills their hearts in this year of centennial jubilation. All rejoice at the event which marks a century of work well done for God's Church and for the spiritual benefit of past and present generations. A prayer, fervent as that of a mother for her child, goes up from grateful Irish hearts in Ireland and Australia - the newer Ireland beyond the seas - that God may continue to bless and prosper the work of the children of Saint Brigid, increase their numbers, extend their sphere of labour, and keep for ever proudly aloft in our own land and others, where the children of the Gael are found, the banner of Saint Brigid, Patroness of Ireland, now so securely and worthily held in the strong and valiant hands of her spiritual daughters - the Brigidines.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

30. Ruins of Tullow's monastery and castle turned to barracks

    Tullow · town · Carlow

    Little remains of the Augustinian Monastery except a broken stone cross in the burial ground on the south side of the river. The old castle was demolished in the reign of Queen Anne, its stones used to build a military barrack on the site now occupied by the courthouse.

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    Time has dealt harshly with the Augustinian Monastery of former days. Hardly a trace of it now remains except a broken stone cross in the burial ground on the south side of the river. The castle was turned to a purpose little dreamt of by its former proud and haughty masters. In the reign of Queen Anne it was taken down and its massive stones utilized to build a military barrack. This structure was on the site now occupied by the courthouse. In this prosperous and picturesque town the Brigidines unobtrusively, yet effectively, carry out the great mission of love and charity confided to their keeping by their founder, Dr. Delaney.

    The people of Tullow were hard-working and industrious, yet, withal, they found it hard to keep body and soul together. They had rejected, with scorn, the many inducements and bribes held out to them by the Ascendancy party to renounce the faith of their fathers and conform to the State religion. Whilst manfully resisting the allurements of the

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

31. The School of Kildare founded by Saint Brigid

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    Saint Brigid established the School of Kildare, considered one of the four principal and most famous schools of ancient Ireland, providing education to both poor and wealthy children under the care of her nuns.

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    dwelling. The great schools of our Island, which were the pride of Ireland and the envy of the nations, were founded and conducted by the religious Orders. The School of Kildare established by Saint Brigid, is numbered amongst the four principal and most famous of the Schools which have won for our country the praise and applause of the Christian world. We may well imagine what a tax was put upon the Sisters of Saint Brigid to organise schools for the children of the poor, as well as for those of the wealthier classes. The poorer classes had to be instructed, not only in the doctrines and practices of their faith, but also in the various branches of knowledge, useful for their avocations in life Those who have practical experience of the stress and strain inseparable from the daily routine of school-work will readily understand that labour of the most trying and exhausting character was the lot of those associated with Saint Brigid in the maintenance and management of her well-filled schools. It is certain that there was no room or place for the idler or drone in the establishment of Kildare. The flippant taunt that the nuns and monks of old were lazy, idle, good-for-nothing creatures, uttered or written by prejudiced and ignorant speakers and writers, is aS groundless as it is unjust and libellous.

    When the school-work was done the Sisters did not rest completely from their labours. The hours they could spare from school and choir duties were devoted to the making of vestments for the altar, or clothes for the poor. The Sacred Vestments used in the Holy Sacrifice were made by the hands of the Sisters. These were beautifully embroidered by the expert needle-women amongst them. We have not extant any specimens of their delicate workmanship amongst the treasures of Ireland's past. The "Book of Kells" contains some examples of the Sacred Vestments, from which we may judge how richly and artistically ornamented they were by the nimble and dexterous fingers of the nuns.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, you are near the place where Saint Brigid established a school that became one of the four principal and most famous schools of ancient Ireland. These schools won for the country the praise and applause of the Christian world. The Sisters of Saint Brigid organised schools for the children of the poor as well as for those of the wealthier classes. The poorer children were instructed not only in the doctrines and practices of their faith but also in the various branches of knowledge useful for their avocations in life. The labour of maintaining and managing these well-filled schools was of the most trying and exhausting character. There was no room for the idler or drone in the establishment of Kildare. The book calls groundless, unjust and libellous the taunt that the nuns and monks of old were lazy, idle, good-for-nothing creatures. When the school-work was done the Sisters did not rest completely from their labours. The hours they could spare from school and choir duties were devoted to making vestments for the altar or clothes for the poor. The sacred vestments used in the Holy Sacrifice were made by the hands of the Sisters and beautifully embroidered by the expert needle-women among them. No specimens of their delicate workmanship survive among the treasures of Ireland's past. The Book of Kells contains some examples of the sacred vestments, from which we may judge how richly and artistically ornamented they were by the nimble and dexterous fingers of the nuns.

32. Brigid chooses the Beatitude of Mercy at Maccaille's table

    Ardagh · parish · Longford

    At a meal hosted by Saint Maccaille, Brigid asked him to discourse on the Eight Beatitudes, then instructed her seven companions to each choose one; she herself selected Mercy, which became the hallmark of Irish sisterhoods.

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    pleased with this injunction, and they asked their Superioress to make her choice first as she held the highest position amongst them. Saint Brigid without hesitation selected the Beatitude of Mercy. This virtue, so dear to God and beneficial to His creatures, has been the distinguishing characteristic of the Irish Sisterhoods in all times and places. The clothing of the naked, the feeding of the hungry, the instruction of the ignorant and unlettered, have always been the chief aims and objects of the heroic lives of the Irish Sisters of all Orders.

    The Convent of Saint Brigid became the centre of great activity in the very first term of its foundation. Thousands flocked there to gain instruction in secular and religious knowledge. Prince and peasant, in search of rest and refreshment, after long and tedious journeys, were received with true Irish hospitality. Ladies of highest rank sought this home of peace and quiet, to devote a few days or weeks to prayer and contemplation, free from the disturbance and interruption of worldly cares and duties. The missionaries, as they gathered Li the candidates for baptism, sent them to Saint Brigid and her companions for instruction, in preparation for baptism and the reception of the other sacraments. The poor came for daily food and alms, and were never turned away hungry or empty-handed from the Convent door. Nothing could equal the zeal of the Sisterhood for gaining souls to Christ, by dispensing bounteous charity to all in need of help and assistance, Spiritual or temporal. Saint Brigid liberally gave away the gifts she received in large quantities from her benefactors. She had no care or anxiety for the wants of tomorrow. These presents and donations were quickly transferred to the outstretched and appealing hands of the poor and afflicted. It is said that, on one occasion, having nothing less costly to give in charity, she gave a most precious ornament, the gift of a royal hand, to some poor beggarman.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

33. Brigid refuses to see the King's daughter-in-law at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    At her Convent, Brigid once refused an audience with the daughter-in-law of King Connail, preferring the company of poor peasant wives, explaining that the offspring of kings are often 'serpents' while the poor are almost all good and pious.

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    subjects. Bishops were desirous of gaining her approval before venturing on some new project for the advancement of religion. Priests came to her to solve the many difficulties and consult her on delicate questions with which they were confronted in the exercise of their sacred ministry. She found time for all, no matter at what hour of the day or night her visitors might call for her services. Like her Divine Master, she was happiest when surrounded by the poor. Though the noblest in the land might arrive at the Convent gates, she would not show the least sign of pride or pleasure at the presence of such distinguished personages. As an instance of her preference for receiving the poor of Christ rather than the rich and noble, it is related that she once refused to see the daughter-in-law of King Connail. A Sister asked her why she preferred to receive the wives of peasants rather than the great ladies of the Court? Saint Brigid made the following reply: "Sister, the poor and the peasants are almost all good and pious, but the offspring of kings are serpents, children of blood and wicked- ness, except a small number of elect."

    It must not be inferred, however, from this particular instance that the holy Abbess was not generous and hospitable in the welcome she extended to the kings and princes who came to the "Cell of the Oak." On the contrary, she insisted on the highest mark of respect being paid to their exalted dignity and the most lavish hospitality bestowed upon them and their retainers. At the great Festivals of Christmas and Easter, these royal and noble personages, with their various Court officials, came in full state to celebrate, with the thousands of pilgrims gathered in this consecrated spot, the two most solemn and glorious feasts of the ecclesiastical year. We find in her ancient lives that she enjoyed the friendship of and received generous gifts from the kings and princes of her country. It was incumbent on the Kings of Leinster, by virtue of the Brehon

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Kildare, the town where Brigid kept her Convent, the place they called the Cell of the Oak. People came to her constantly. Bishops wanted her approval before they undertook anything new for religion. Priests brought her their difficulties, the delicate questions they met in their ministry. She made time for all of them, no matter the hour they called. She was happiest, the records say, when she was surrounded by the poor. If the noblest in the land arrived at the Convent gates, she showed no sign of pride or pleasure at having such distinguished visitors. One story captures this plainly. She refused to see the daughter-in-law of King Connail. A Sister asked her why she would rather receive the wives of peasants than the great ladies of the Court. Brigid gave this answer. She said, "Sister, the poor and the peasants are almost all good and pious, but the offspring of kings are serpents, children of blood and wickedness, except a small number of elect." That said, the holy Abbess was not ungenerous to kings and princes who came to the Cell of the Oak. She insisted that the highest respect be paid to their dignity and the most lavish hospitality given to them and their retainers. At Christmas and Easter, royal and noble personages came in full state, with their court officials, to celebrate alongside the thousands of pilgrims gathered at the consecrated spot. Her ancient lives record that she enjoyed the friendship of the kings and princes of her country and received generous gifts from them. It was incumbent on the Kings of Leinster, by virtue of the Brehon laws, to do so.

34. Brigid's vision during Saint Patrick's preaching at Findermore, Clogher

    near Clogher · town · Tyrone

    While accompanying Saint Patrick as he preached for three days at Findermore in the townland of Clogher, Tyrone, Brigid fell into a trance and had a vision of ploughs cultivating Ireland, which Patrick interpreted as a prophecy of the Church's future and its corruption.

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    Ulster was not forgotten in the journeyings of Saint Brigid through her beloved country, to establish her religious houses, and propagate the Christian Faith by her teaching and miracles. We find in her Acts that she accompanied Saint Patrick to the County Tyrone. The Apostle was preaching to an immense gathering of people in Findermore, in the townland of Clogher. It is said that he discoursed to the people for three days and nights continuously, without feeling fatigue or wearying his hearers, so eager were they to hear the word of God. Saint Brigid appeared to the Apostolic preacher to have fallen asleep during his discourse. Saint Patrick was surprised that such a holy virgin should thus give way to the weakness of nature while the sacred word of God was being announced. The Apostle reproved her when she had risen from her slumber. Saint Brigid immediately fell on her knees and humbly begged pardon of the Apostle in these words: "O Father, forgive me; O most pious Lord, spare me, for during this hour | have had a vision." Saint Patrick told her to describe what the vision had revealed to her. The holy Abbess then announced to the people assembled what Heaven had permitted her to see. "I, your servant, have beheld four ploughs, ploughing the whole of Ireland, while sowers were scattering seed. This latter immediately sprung up and began to ripen when rivulets of fresh milk filled the furrows, while the sowers themselves were clothed in white garments. After this | saw others plough, and those who ploughed appeared black. They destroyed with their plough-shares the growing corn; and they sowed tares, which filled the furrows." Saint Patrick addressing the holy Abbess, said: "O holy virgin, you have beheld a true and wonderful vision. This is its interpretation: We are God's ploughers who, with the shares of the four Gospels cultivate human hearts, and sow God's words, while those rivers, containing the milk of Christian Faith, proceed from our labours. But towards the end of this world, bad teachers shall preach to depraved generations, who will

    receive them. Those teachers shall destroy our instructions, and shall seduce nearly the whole human race." A Protestant writer, the Rev. Baring-Gould, in his beautiful work, Lives of the Saints, maintains that this vision may be interpreted as a prophecy foretelling "the miserable apostasy of the socalled Reformation."

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

35. Castle Browne becomes Clongowes Wood College

    near Clongoweswood · population centre · Kildare · 1840

    After the death of Miss Browne, the family mansion and property at Clongowes Wood passed into the hands of the Jesuit Fathers and became Clongowes Wood College.

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    love of good works for God and her neighbour, she realized, after much serious reflection, that she had no vocation for the religious state. Her desire was to retire to a convent and end her days there in the performance of good works and the practice of piety. She accordingly went to Tullow convent and placed herself under the direction of Dr. Delaney. She came at a time when her experience and services were most needed, for the community of Tullow were novices merely in all that pertains to the essentials and soul of perfect conventual life. They were, it is true, anxious to learn all they could about the religious life from experienced teachers. They were fortunate in obtaining the services of Miss Browne. Communication at this time was rare and difficult between the different convents in Ireland. Miss Browne was able to impart to them many details of conventual routine and discipline it would have been difficult for them otherwise to acquire. She lived and died in the peaceful retreat she had chosen. Her presence served as a stimulus to the religious of the convent to persevere in their sublime vocations and to shed no silent tear of regret for the sacrifice they had made in leaving all to follow Christ. They had before their eyes constantly the example of a noble woman who abandoned the comforts of home and friends, and all the enjoyment that riches can give, to live and end her days in prayer and seclusion. This saintly and devoted daughter of the Church peacefully laid down life's burden in the year 1840, at the patriarchal age of 98. The family mansion and property passed into the hands of the Jesuit Fathers, and is now known as Clongowes Wood College, one of the most appreciated of our many Irish educational establishments.

    The zealous founder of this excellent Order of nuns watched carefully and paternally over its cradle. He saw this spiritual infant, almost hourly, grow strong and vigorous. For seven years he nursed it through the many changes and

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

36. Relics of Brigid and Conlaeth enshrined at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    After Brigid's death her relics were placed in a precious metal shrine beside the altar in her Church of Kildare, with the body of Saint Conlaeth, first Bishop of Kildare, buried on the other side of the same altar.

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    Holy Ghost, could not be subjected to such desecration. They were reverently placed in a shrine of precious metal, adorned with gold and silver ornaments, and deposited on one side of the altar in her own Church of Kildare. The body of Saint Conlaeth, the first Bishop of Kildare, who died not many years before Saint Brigid, was buried on the other side of the altar in the same Church. It was meet that the bodies of the two Saints, who had built up, by their united efforts, the great Church and religious establishments in Kildare, should not be separated in death, but should remain together in the place their saintly lives and miracles made famous and hallowed for all time.

    Soon after the relics of Saint Brigid had been deposited in their resting-place before the altar of God, where she had watched and prayed during her life, Catholic Ireland was rejoiced by accounts of the many miracles that had taken place there. Crowds from all parts of the Island were soon on their way to Kildare, either to obtain favours for themselves, or to verify, from personal observation, the truth of the statements that had reached them in their far-off homes. Those who came to place their faith and confidence in the intercessory power of the Patroness of Ireland went away rejoicing at the speedy answer they had obtained to their prayers, and the ample rewards given in return for their long and toilsome pilgrimage to her Shrine. The curious amongst the pilgrims, who came in a half-hearted, doubting spirit, to see for themselves whether the rumours of miraculous occurrences they had heard had any foundation in fact, were afforded evidence beyond yea or nay that Kildare was still the scene of the miraculous intervention of Saint Brigid. Yearly the number of pilgrims increased. A great fair was held on February 1st - Saint Brigid's Day. Kildare became one of the chief places of interest and pilgrimage in Ireland. The "Patrons" or "Patterns" of later days had their origin in the great convocations that gathered round the Shrines of

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, you are near a church that once held the relics of Saint Brigid and Saint Conlaeth. After Brigid's death, her relics were placed in a shrine of precious metal, adorned with gold and silver ornaments, and deposited on one side of the altar in her own Church of Kildare. The body of Saint Conlaeth, the first Bishop of Kildare, who died not many years before Saint Brigid, was buried on the other side of the same altar. The two saints had built up the great church and religious establishments in Kildare by their united efforts, and it was fitting that their bodies were not separated in death but remained together in the place their saintly lives and miracles had made famous. Soon after the relics were deposited before the altar where Brigid had watched and prayed during her life, accounts spread of many miracles taking place there. Crowds came from all parts of Ireland, some seeking favours, others wanting to verify the reports for themselves. Those who came placing faith in the intercessory power of the Patroness of Ireland went away rejoicing at answers to their prayers and rewards for their long pilgrimage. Even the curious who came doubting were given evidence beyond question that Kildare was still a scene of miraculous intervention. Yearly the number of pilgrims increased, and a great fair was held on February 1st, Saint Brigid's Day. Kildare became one of the chief places of pilgrimage in Ireland, and the patterns of later days had their origin in these great gatherings round the shrines.

37. The millstone that refused to grind a magician's corn

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    The same millstone at the Kildare monastery mysteriously stopped working when a magician's corn was brought to be ground, only resuming once the corn was removed and replaced with the monastery's own grain, later surviving a fire intact.

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    Another remarkable fact in connexion with this mill-stone is also related, which adds to the miraculous occurrence just given. It suddenly ceased to perform its office when the corn of a certain magus, or magician, was brought to the mill for grinding. The miller was not aware of the profession of the owner of the grain. When the stone ceased working he put all the pressure at his disposal on the wheel to set the stone in motion, but all to no purpose. There was a current of water of more than usual force and volume running at the time, still there was no revolution of the stone. It was then discovered that the corn belonged to a magus and unbeliever. His corn was at once taken out and that of the monastery substituted in its place. To the astonishment of the onlookers the reluctant wheel immediately resumed its measured round, and the stone revolved as usual and ground the corn. This mill was burned to the ground; but in the midst of the debris the mill-stone was found whole and uninjured. It was reverently placed by the monks ina conspicuous place near their monastery. It became an object of veneration to the people of, and visitors to, Kildare, on account of the protection extended to it by the special intercession of Saint Brigid.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare town, you are near the old monastery where a famous millstone once stood. According to the story, the stone suddenly stopped working one day when corn belonging to a magician was brought to the mill. The miller did not know the grain's owner was a magician, and no amount of pressure on the wheel, nor a strong current of water, could make the stone turn. Once the corn was removed and replaced with the monastery's own grain, the wheel immediately resumed turning and the stone ground the corn as before. The mill later burned to the ground, but the millstone was found in the debris, whole and uninjured. The monks placed it near their monastery, where it became an object of veneration for the people of Kildare and for visitors, on account of the protection given to it through the intercession of Saint Brigid.

38. Augustinian Monastery founded in Tullow, 1315

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1315–1331

    An Augustinian Monastery was founded in Tullow in 1315 by Hugh Tallon and Simon Lombard, with the grant receiving royal sanction under Edward III in 1331. The monastery attracted settlers and helped raise the town's importance.

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    As far back as the year 1315 an Augustinian Monastery was founded in Tullow by Hugh Tallon and Simon Lombard. The grant made by these good men to the sons of Saint Augustine received the royal sanction in the reign of Edward lll - 1331. The establishment of this Monastery of Augustinians in the town had the effect of attracting many to make their home there, and helped considerably to raise

    it to a position of importance it could otherwise never have obtained The foundation of a religious community in any centre of population, however small, was sure to bring with it material prosperity and an influx of desirable inhabitants, ready and willing to throw in their lot with the people and help to develop its industrial resources. Here they would find every opportunity for the practice of their religion, which they valued beyond every other consideration. Their children would have the advantage of receiving a sound religious education to fit them for the battle of life. Inducements such as these contributed even more than the mighty protection and patronage of the Lords of the Manor to swell the population of the town and promote its industrial and commercial welfare. The inhabitants of Tullow will always remember with pride and gratitude that the sons of Saint Augustine had no small share in establishing and building up the place of their birth and affection.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

39. Dr Delaney's curacy and reform efforts in Tullow

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1777

    As curate in Tullow from 1777, Dr Delaney found the town in poor moral and religious condition, with Bible Societies using it as a base and Sunday games and drinking common, and he worked to instruct the young and reform practices.

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    gaiety and vivacity of thought and language, and was one of the few men who never failed to employ such talents and dispositions as he possessed to render virtue attractive and vice abhorred." A priest esteemed worthy of such a beautiful panegyric could not possibly fail to attain the highest honours in the gift of the Church. He could not, it is evident, be other than a tower of strength to his people and a father to his flock. His Bishop had a welcome for him when he returned to Ireland in 1777. He appointed him his own curate in the town of Tullow, then the residence of the Bishops of Kildare and Leighlin. Here the energetic curate found more than ample scope for the exercise of his apostolic zeal. Tullow at that time was by no means the model Catholic town it is happily today. Its moral state is described in anything but flattering terms by writers of the period. On account of the lack of the means of education, not only the young, but even their elders, were ignorant of the principles of their faith and their ordinary obligations as Catholics. The emissaries of the Bible Societies had made Tullow their headquarters, and were using all the means at their disposal to attract the young to their schools and their seniors to their conventicles. In these latter, the vilest slanders were uttered against the Church of Rome, and her ministers were held up to derision and ridicule. The observance of Sunday was neglected by a large number of Catholics, who for want of proper instruction, were blameless for their ignorance of the solemn duties that day entails on all children of the Church. To this absence of Sunday observance was added another grievance which tortured the very soul of Dr. Delaney, the devoted minister of God's Church. Public games were held on Sundays, and were accompanied by excessive drinking, unseemly brawls, and other evil practices. The priest, responsible for the souls of his flock, had here a herculean task set him in the first years of his sacred ministry. Nothing daunted, Dr. Delaney set himself to remedy this sad and deplorable condition of

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

40. Pilgrimage and Saint Brigid's Day fair at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    After Brigid's relics were enshrined, reports of miracles drew crowds of pilgrims to Kildare, and a great fair developed there on 1 February, her feast day, making Kildare a chief place of pilgrimage in Ireland.

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    Soon after the relics of Saint Brigid had been deposited in their resting-place before the altar of God, where she had watched and prayed during her life, Catholic Ireland was rejoiced by accounts of the many miracles that had taken place there. Crowds from all parts of the Island were soon on their way to Kildare, either to obtain favours for themselves, or to verify, from personal observation, the truth of the statements that had reached them in their far-off homes. Those who came to place their faith and confidence in the intercessory power of the Patroness of Ireland went away rejoicing at the speedy answer they had obtained to their prayers, and the ample rewards given in return for their long and toilsome pilgrimage to her Shrine. The curious amongst the pilgrims, who came in a half-hearted, doubting spirit, to see for themselves whether the rumours of miraculous occurrences they had heard had any foundation in fact, were afforded evidence beyond yea or nay that Kildare was still the scene of the miraculous intervention of Saint Brigid. Yearly the number of pilgrims increased. A great fair was held on February 1st - Saint Brigid's Day. Kildare became one of the chief places of interest and pilgrimage in Ireland. The "Patrons" or "Patterns" of later days had their origin in the great convocations that gathered round the Shrines of

    Saint Patrick and Brigid in the earlier centuries of our Church.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare town, you are on ground that drew pilgrims from all over Ireland. After Saint Brigid's relics were laid to rest before the altar where she had watched and prayed in life, word spread of miracles taking place at her shrine. Crowds came from every part of the island, some seeking favours, others simply to verify what they had heard in their far-off homes. Those who came with faith went away rejoicing at the answers to their prayers, and even the doubters, who came only to satisfy curiosity, found what the book calls "evidence beyond yea or nay" that Kildare was still a scene of miraculous intervention. Each year the numbers grew, and a great fair took hold on February 1st, Saint Brigid's feast day. Kildare became one of the chief places of pilgrimage in Ireland. The Patrons or Patterns of later days traced their origin back to these great gatherings round the shrines of Saint Patrick and Brigid in the earlier centuries of the Church.

41. The cloud portent at the Dun of Leathglass near Downpatrick

    near Downpatrick · town · Down

    While Saint Patrick preached in Ulster, a bright cloud descended and drifted toward the Dun of Leathglass near Downpatrick; Brigid explained to the frightened crowd that this represented Patrick's spirit visiting in advance the place where his body would ultimately be interred.

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    The spirit of prophecy was accorded the holy Abbess of Kildare by the Holy Ghost as a mark of her exalted sanctity. While Saint Patrick was preaching in Ulster to a large gathering of people, the congregation noticed that a cloud of surpassing brightness descended from the heavens towards the earth. Saint Brigid, "the pearl of Ireland," was an eager listener on this occasion to the burning eloquence of the national Apostle. This bright meteor, when it came almost in touch with the earth, rested a short distance away from the crowd round Saint Patrick. It then slowly drifted towards the Dun (or Fort) of Leathglass. This Dun is situated near Downpatrick. The congregation were afraid to ask Saint Patrick the meaning of this portent. This manifestation of a supernatural agency seemed to strike terror into their hearts. They would wish to know the meaning and object of this apparition. Instinctively they turned to Saint Brigid, knowing well that she would solve the mystery for them. She referred them to Saint Patrick for the explanation. He turned to Saint Brigid and said: "You and | are equals; therefore explain this mystery to the people." Saint Brigid then addressed the assemblage. She told them that the cloud represented the spirit of Saint Patrick, which went to visit beforehand the place where his precious remains would ultimately be interred. For, she said, "where this meteor first rested near us, there shall the body of our holy patron lie unburied for some days, and thence it shall be brought and interred in Leath-Glasse Dun, where it shall remain to die Day of Judgment."

    Some of the ancient records state that Saint Patrick commanded her to weave with her own hands the shroud in which his body should be wrapped after death. The wish of

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

42. Death of Bishop Delaney in Tullow Convent

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1814

    The Bishop, suffering from a painful illness, continued to carry the Blessed Sacrament in procession despite his pain, hastening his death. He died on 9 July 1814 in the Community room of Tullow Convent while Mass was being celebrated.

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    The days on earth of this good prelate were now about to end. He bad long suffered from a tedious and painful malady. While thus enduring the torture of intense bodily pain, he carried the Blessed Sacrament on his beloved Procession day. The effort undoubtedly hastened his death. He was called to his reward while Mass was being celebrated in the present Community room of Tullow Convent The clergy, the monks and the nuns, whose spiritual father he was, witnessed the passing away of one of the most faithful and zealous Bishops that ever occupied the throne, or held the crozier of Saint Conlaeth. He died on the 9th of July, 1814, in the sixty-seventh year of his age and thirty-first of his Episcopate.

    Tullow, The Mother House

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

43. Kings and princes visit the 'Cell of the Oak' at Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    Despite her preference for the poor, Brigid insisted on lavish hospitality for the kings and princes who visited the 'Cell of the Oak' (Kildare), especially at the great festivals of Christmas and Easter, where thousands of pilgrims gathered.

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    It must not be inferred, however, from this particular instance that the holy Abbess was not generous and hospitable in the welcome she extended to the kings and princes who came to the "Cell of the Oak." On the contrary, she insisted on the highest mark of respect being paid to their exalted dignity and the most lavish hospitality bestowed upon them and their retainers. At the great Festivals of Christmas and Easter, these royal and noble personages, with their various Court officials, came in full state to celebrate, with the thousands of pilgrims gathered in this consecrated spot, the two most solemn and glorious feasts of the ecclesiastical year. We find in her ancient lives that she enjoyed the friendship of and received generous gifts from the kings and princes of her country. It was incumbent on the Kings of Leinster, by virtue of the Brehon

    Laws, to extend their powerful protection to Kildare, and to give every pecuniary assistance to Saint Brigid and her Community when they sought or requested their aid.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As you pass through Kildare, you are near the place once called the Cell of the Oak, where Saint Brigid kept her community. Though she loved the poor, she insisted on lavish hospitality for the kings and princes who came to visit her, with the highest respect paid to their rank. At Christmas and Easter, these royal and noble figures arrived in full state, joining thousands of pilgrims who gathered there to celebrate the two great feasts of the Church year. Her ancient lives record that she enjoyed the friendship of the kings and princes of Ireland and received generous gifts from them. Under the Brehon Laws, the Kings of Leinster were bound to extend their protection to Kildare and give financial help to Brigid and her community whenever they sought it.

44. Miss Browne retires to Tullow Convent from Castle Browne

    near Clongoweswood · population centre · Kildare · 1840

    Miss Browne, educated at the Benedictine convent of Ypres, left her family's mansion Castle Browne on the Clongowes Wood estate to join the Tullow community as a laywoman, sharing her convent experience with the novice sisters. She died there in 1840 aged 98.

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    love of good works for God and her neighbour, she realized, after much serious reflection, that she had no vocation for the religious state. Her desire was to retire to a convent and end her days there in the performance of good works and the practice of piety. She accordingly went to Tullow convent and placed herself under the direction of Dr. Delaney. She came at a time when her experience and services were most needed, for the community of Tullow were novices merely in all that pertains to the essentials and soul of perfect conventual life. They were, it is true, anxious to learn all they could about the religious life from experienced teachers. They were fortunate in obtaining the services of Miss Browne. Communication at this time was rare and difficult between the different convents in Ireland. Miss Browne was able to impart to them many details of conventual routine and discipline it would have been difficult for them otherwise to acquire. She lived and died in the peaceful retreat she had chosen. Her presence served as a stimulus to the religious of the convent to persevere in their sublime vocations and to shed no silent tear of regret for the sacrifice they had made in leaving all to follow Christ. They had before their eyes constantly the example of a noble woman who abandoned the comforts of home and friends, and all the enjoyment that riches can give, to live and end her days in prayer and seclusion. This saintly and devoted daughter of the Church peacefully laid down life's burden in the year 1840, at the patriarchal age of 98. The family mansion and property passed into the hands of the Jesuit Fathers, and is now known as Clongowes Wood College, one of the most appreciated of our many Irish educational establishments.

    The zealous founder of this excellent Order of nuns watched carefully and paternally over its cradle. He saw this spiritual infant, almost hourly, grow strong and vigorous. For seven years he nursed it through the many changes and

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

45. The Anchorite's vow and the lost luggage at Kilbride near Tramore

    Kilbride · parish · Waterford

    Near Kilbride, identified by Dr Lanigan close to Tramore in Waterford, an Anchorite who had vowed never to visit any woman refused his disciples' request to see Brigid; the disciples then lost their luggage on the road, which they attributed to their failure to seek her blessing.

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    Another anecdote in connexion with this visit of our Saint to the province of Munster will, we hope, prove edifying and interesting to our readers. Saint Brigid was resting from her labours beside the sea-shore, not far from the house in which the good Bishop, Saint Eric, dwelt The place has been identified by the learned historian, Dr. Lanigan, as Kilbride, near Tramore, in the County Waterford Near this beautiful spot an Anchorite dwelt, who, by the austerity and singular purity of his life, had gathered round him a number of disciples. The news had reached them that Saint Brigid and her nuns, of whom they had heard so much, had taken up their abode not many miles away. The disciples approached their Spiritual Father and said to him: "O Father, let us visit Holy Brigid, that she may bless us." To which request the Anchorite replied: "My children, you know already my vow to visit no woman." This holy man and his disciples were on their way to form a hermitage on some lonely island off the lrish coast They were in close proximity to a cell, in which Saint Brigid was praying, when the request of the disciples was made.

    When they arrived at a hospice in which they were to pass the night, they discovered that the greater portion of their luggage had been left behind on the road. They at once attributed their loss to their neglect in not having sought

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

46. The falcon's seasonal flight to Glendalough

    Glendalough · electoral division · Wicklow

    Saint Brigid's Falcon was said to fly each breeding season to the mountains of Glendalough before returning to resume its watch over the ecclesiastical buildings of Kildare.

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    The inhabitants had a great awe and veneration for the bird, which they called "Saint Brigid's Falcon". It was usual for it at breeding time to wing its flight to the mountains of Glendalough. After the usual interval it returned and took up its old position as sentinel and guardian over the ecclesiastical buildings of Kildare. It was killed by a rustic in a cowardly fashion by a blow of a stick at a moment when the bird was stretching forward to receive food from his hand.

    "According to several prophecies relating to Saint Brigid," says the late Canon O'Hanlon, "her name and her virtues were destined to be celebrated, not only in Ireland, but throughout the world, while that veneration and respect paid to her memory were to continue until the day of final doom. The event has corresponded hitherto with this recorded prediction, nor can we reasonably doubt the prophetic saying will continue to be verified, when time draws to its close, for numberless writers have testified concerning the extent and prevalence of those honours paid to her throughout Ireland, as also in the various countries of Europe, and over the entire world. Generations yet unborn shall continue still further to extend and perpetuate her fame."

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

47. Baptism of Tighernach, future Bishop of Clogher and founder of Clones

    Clones · town · Monaghan

    The infant son of a northern Irish chieftain was brought to Kildare for Brigid to sponsor at baptism; she named him Tighernach and prophesied his future sanctity, and he later founded the school of Clones and became second Bishop of Clogher.

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    From the north of Ireland, the infant son of a celebrated Irish chieftain was brought to Kildare. His parents wished Saint Brigid to stand sponsor for their child, and to have the sacramental waters poured on his head in the great Church attached to her Convent. At the Saint's request the name Tighernach was given to him. She prophesied that he would become a learned and saintly ecclesiastic. Her prophecy was realized, for Tighernach became a Bishop of great sanctity and founded the school of Clones. In the Irish Kalendars he is mentioned as the second Bishop of Clogher.

    Eight prelates came from a Church called Tolach na nEspuc, or "the hill of the Bishops," to see Saint Brigid. She was then living on the shore of a lake not far from Kildare. These holy men travelled a long distance from their home to pay their homage to her, of whose sanctity and miracles they had heard such wonderful accounts. Their Church was situated in

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

48. Brigid's death and burial claimed for Kildare

    Kildare · town · Kildare

    Ancient authorities dispute where Brigid died, but Kildare (Cill-Dara) is generally held to be the place, with her death dated to 1st February at about seventy years of age; Canon O'Hanlon supported Kildare's claim as the site of her death.

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    The most reliable and authentic Acts of Saint Brigid set down the day of her death as the 1st of February. There is, however, a great divergence of opinion, amongst ancient and modern writers of her life, as to her exact age when she departed from this world. The late Canon O'Hanlon, in his life of the Saint, having examined with scrupulous care the many authorities on the subject, arrives at the conclusion that it must have been in or about the seventieth year of her age. As to the nature of the disease which caused her death, the ancient annals afford no information. A controversy amongst authorities centres round the particular place in which her pure soul took flight to the arms of her blessed Spouse. Kildare, however, lays just claim to having been the place of her departure from the scene of her earthy labours. The late Canon O'Hanlon again throws the weight of his authority on the side of those writers who give this honour to her beloved Cill-Dara.

    Feeling that the end was fast approaching, she sent for her favourite spiritual daughter, Darlugdacha. She confided to her the exact day and hour of her death, and commanded her to assume the reins of Government over her many religious houses, when she, their Foundress, had passed away. This timid and pious Sister wept bitterly when she heard the sad message conveyed to her by the holy Abbess. The fact of her appointment as successor to such a Saintly Superioress added greater acuteness to her grief. She prayed to be freed from the burden of authority placed upon her by Saint Brigid, and asked her to pray that they might die together, as she could not bear to part with one whom she so tenderly loved. The Saint said to her by way of comfort and consolation: "My daughter, thou shalt live a whole year after my departure, and then thou shall follow me." This prediction proved true; for on the same day a year afterwards, Saint Darlugdacha passed to her reward. Thus, these two Spouses of Christ, so united in the bonds of affection during life, are honoured together as Saints of God's Church on the same day of the ecclesiastical year.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    As the road takes you through Kildare town, you're passing through the place most ancient authorities hold as the site where Saint Brigid died. The most reliable Acts of Saint Brigid set the day of her death as the 1st of February. Her exact age was disputed among writers, but Canon O'Hanlon, having examined the many authorities with scrupulous care, concluded she was in or about her seventieth year. Kildare, or Cill-Dara, lays just claim to being the place of her departure, and O'Hanlon threw the weight of his authority behind that claim. Feeling the end approaching, Brigid sent for her favourite spiritual daughter, Darlugdacha. She confided the exact day and hour of her death and commanded her to assume the reins of government over her many religious houses. Darlugdacha wept bitterly and prayed to be freed from the burden, asking Brigid to pray that they might die together. The Saint comforted her: "My daughter, thou shalt live a whole year after my departure, and then thou shall follow me." The prediction proved true. On the same day a year afterwards, Darlugdacha passed to her reward, and the two are honoured together as saints on the same day of the ecclesiastical year.

49. Dr Delaney establishes Sunday School in Tullow

    Tullow · town · Carlow

    Dr Delaney began religious reform in Tullow by founding a Sunday School, gathering children at the Parish Church for instruction, hymn-singing, Mass, and Vespers throughout the day.

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    false creed of the Saxon they were lamentably ignorant of the sublime lessons inculcated by their own. In the days of their youth they were deprived of the incalculable advantage of religious instruction, the Sunday Mass, the powerful aid of the Sacraments, and the watchful pastoral care of their Priests. They had lived under the ban of the Penal Laws, and experienced still the effects of the persecution that overshadowed and darkened the early days of their lives. A harsh word could not be uttered against them if ignorance of the principles of their Faith and practices, and a want of observance and enthusiasm regarding it were found to exist in Tullow as elsewhere throughout Ireland in those days. The advent of Dr. Delaney to Tullow was the harbinger of brighter and happier days for the inhabitants of Tullow. The formation of the Sunday School was the first step taken by him in the scheme of reformation, planned and elaborated by him after much thought and prayer. He began with the younger generation. The little ones flocked to the Parish Church on Sunday mornings. It must have been an edifying spectacle, and one most gratifying to the heart of the zealous pastor, to see crowds of children, neatly and cleanly attired, wending their way at an early hour to the Church to receive instruction from their spiritual father and best of friends. When the children had taken their places in the church, at a given signal they went on their knees and, with clear and resonant voices, sang the "O Salutaris Hostia" in praise and honour of Him who said "Suffer little children to come unto Me." Their beloved pastor had formed a village choir and trained the young voices to sing appropriate hymns at their Sunday classes. No magnificent organ accompanied their tuneful voices in the singing of the hymns. The natural and inherent taste of the Celt for music was exemplified in this choir of children, whose rendering of the praises of God were sweeter and dearer to the blessed object of them than the organised and well-trained voices that vibrate and wake the echoes in

    the aisles of great cathedrals. The words of the Christian poet, Keble, seem fittingly to describe the scene witnessed in Tullow Parish Church on Sunday mornings:

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

50. Rebellion of 1798 halts Tullow church and convent building

    Tullow · town · Carlow · 1798

    The Rebellion of 1798 interrupted Bishop Delaney's plans to build a church and convent in Tullow. After the rebellion had passed, he resumed the works, renting ground since freehold could not be obtained.

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    The Rebellion of 1798 interrupted the Bishop's plans for the building of his church and the erection of a convent for the nuns. When this political storm had passed over and the blessing of peace had descended on our Island, the good pastor set about the works that were nearest and dearest his heart. Not having been successful in obtaining freehold ground for the buildings in Tullow, he rented a piece of ground which he considered the most suitable for the objects in view. Having erected a new church and a small convent, close by, for the nuns, he determined to dedicate the congregation of pious young women he had founded to the Patroness of Ireland, Saint Brigid. The reason for the selection of this great Irish Saint as the Patroness and model of the congregation of religious women is given clearly in his own words, "She had been, heretofore, raised up and employed by Almighty God to fill the kingdom with religious Virgins." Six pious and thoroughly sincere young women were selected to form the first community of Dr. Delaney's Order.

    On the 1st February, 1807, the Feast of Saint Brigid, the Order of Brigidines, or Sisters of Saint Brigid, came into existence. The sisters had spent the vigil of this glorious day in humble and earnest prayer and preparation. They assembled in their new convent on the morning of the feast. Their founder, now Bishop of the diocese, blessed the house,

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

51. Churches built by Bishop Delaney at Tullow and Mountrath

    Tullow · town · Carlow

    Bishop Delaney erected fine churches at both Tullow and Mountrath, furnishing them with silver sacred vessels despite limited means and the difficulties of the penal era.

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    The two Churches of Tullow and Mountrath stand today proud witnesses to the zeal and worth of the good Bishop who erected them. He wished his people to be provided with the best temples of prayer that architectural skill could design. He furnished them with everything necessary for the greater and more imposing fulfilment of the Church ritual. He, out of his slender means, presented the Church of Tullow with sacred vessels of massive silver, not only chalices and ciboriums, but even lamp and thurible. When we consider the times in which these works for the glory of God were undertaken, the poverty of the people, the difficulty of obtaining suitable sites for churches and religious institutions, we must form a high estimate of this great prelate who accomplished so much for the flock of which he was Chief pastor. The memory of such men as he will never perish as long as true Catholic hearts beat in Irish breasts.

    The town of Tullow owes his memory a debt of gratitude, among many others, for having established there the

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

52. Dr Delaney's death and burial at Tullow

    Tullow · town · Carlow

    Bishop Delaney died at Tullow after a long illness and was interred in the chapel of that town, which he himself had built from the foundation.

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    chapels, to increase the number of clergy, and to promote religious instruction be means of schools, confraternities, and the circulation of good works. He held in his hand, as it were, the hearts of his flock, and moulded them as he pleased, or rather as God required him to do. His labours were unceasing and an ardent love of God, with tenderness and compassion for sinners, seemed to be the characteristic virtues of his life. Saint Francis de Sales was the great model of his private and episcopal labours, and like him he became the instrument whereby the Almighty wrought numerous conversions, as well from heresy as from vice. His habits were frugal, his demeanour condescending; humbly he made himself all to all that he might gain all to Christ. He died at Tullow, after enduring a long and painful illness, and is interred in the chapel of that town, which he himself had raised from the foundation."

    The two Churches of Tullow and Mountrath stand today proud witnesses to the zeal and worth of the good Bishop who erected them. He wished his people to be provided with the best temples of prayer that architectural skill could design. He furnished them with everything necessary for the greater and more imposing fulfilment of the Church ritual. He, out of his slender means, presented the Church of Tullow with sacred vessels of massive silver, not only chalices and ciboriums, but even lamp and thurible. When we consider the times in which these works for the glory of God were undertaken, the poverty of the people, the difficulty of obtaining suitable sites for churches and religious institutions, we must form a high estimate of this great prelate who accomplished so much for the flock of which he was Chief pastor. The memory of such men as he will never perish as long as true Catholic hearts beat in Irish breasts.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

53. Saint Bernard's account of Faughart as Brigid's birthplace

    Faughart · parish · Louth

    Saint Bernard, in his life of Saint Malachy, records that three Bishops came into the village of Faughart, which was said to be the birthplace of Saint Brigid, confirming the tradition associating the site with her nativity.

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    surrounded by the fertile valleys of Louth. A splendid view of Dundalk Bay, with the Cooley mountains in the distance, is obtained from Faughart. The country around the birth-place of the Saint abounds in historic memories. Cardinal Moran, in his short Life of Saint Brigid, writing of Faughart, says: "Every inch of the adjoining plains is historic ground, and from the days of Dathi and Fingall, to those of Edward Bruce and O'Neill, and still later times, some of the most stirring scenes of Irish history were witnessed there." A stream runs through a field near the Holy Well. Pilgrimages are made by the people of the district, and from distant parts of the country to this stream, in the pious hope of being freed from their maladies, through the intercession of her who was born near its waters. Mention of Faughart is made by Saint Bernard in his life of Saint Malachy. He says that "three Bishops came into the village of Faughart, which they say was the birthplace of Saint Brigid."

    The parents of Saint Brigid were Dubtach and Brotseach. The father was descended from a noble line of ancestors. He belonged to the race of Con of the Hundred Battles, one of the most famous warrior Kings of Ireland He was a Druid of Leinster. Brotseach, like her husband, could lay claim to Royal descent. She was the daughter of Dalbronach, of the noble house of the O'Connors. It is not certain at what particular period the parents of our Saint received the grace of baptism. Some say that this sacrament was administered to them by the hands of Saint Patrick, while others assert that they were baptized by one of his immediate disciples. It is most probable that they received the grace of conversion before their saintly child was born.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

54. Brigidine branch established in Mountrath

    Mountrath · town · Laois

    Dr Delaney extended the sphere of the Brigidine sisters' labours by establishing a branch of the Order in Mountrath, seeing the success achieved in Tullow.

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    vicissitudes attendant on the early days of all institutions. His heart rejoiced to see the strides it was making towards the realization of his hopes. He dearly saw that the foundations were well and truly laid, so much so, that there could not remain, in his mind, the least doubt as to the solidity and stability of this spiritual edifice, the work of his hands. He was so pleased at the progress made by the sisters in Tullow in carrying out his ideals, that he extended the sphere of their labours, by establishing a branch of their Order in Mountrath. He could now close his eyes in peace, for his glorious work was done and, as years have proved, well done.

    A hundred years of zealous, unselfish, devoted labour in the sacred cause of religious education is the glorious record of the Brigidine Order today. The acorn sown by the hand of Dr. Delaney has grown into the mammoth oak, whose branches are spread over two hemispheres. Tullow - the mother house - Mountrath, Abbeyleix, Goresbridge, and Ballyroan have always been and still are perennial sources of untold spiritual blessings to the Catholics of Ireland. The work of the Brigidines has been carried on silently it is true, but none the less effectively, in all their Irish houses. The daughters of Erin, especially, have good reason to be grateful to the Sisters of Saint Brigid for the excellent education imparted to them in their boarding and day schools. This, the centennial year of their institution, will awaken in the hearts of many of their former pupils the sweetest memories of happy days passed in the classrooms of one or other of their institutions. Visions of the golden days of their youth will come before them, when the convent walls sheltered and protected them from the cold and biting winds of a world the bitterness and sadness of which they have had, alas! to experience in riper years. Midst change of scene and flight of years one memory will endure and loom up constantly on the horizon of their lives: Tullow,

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

55. Daniel Delaney born near Mountrath

    Mountrath · town · Laois · 1747

    Daniel Delaney, later founder of the Brigidines and Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, was born in 1747 at Paddock, near Mountrath, to a respectable farming family.

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    The founder of the nuns of Saint Brigid, or Brigidines, was Dr. Daniel Delaney, Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin. He was born in the year A.D. 1747, at Paddock, near Mountrath, His parents belonged to the respectable and wealthy farming class. He was a boy of uncommon quickness and cheerfulness. It was apparent to his parents and teachers that he was destined to serve God in the Sanctuary, and that the world and its seductive allurements and promises of reward had no attractions for him. When he had attained his

    sixteenth year, he was sent to Saint Omers, in France, to prepare himself for the ecclesiastical state. From this famous College he passed to one still more famous, "the College of the Community" in Paris. He gained the highest distinctions in this centre of learning that it was in its power to confer. His professors foresaw the brilliant future that lay in wait for their Irish student.

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

56. Dr O'Reilly, Parish Priest of Kilcock, translated to Armagh

    Kilcock · town · Kildare · 1783

    Dr O'Reilly, Parish Priest of Kilcock and Coadjutor Bishop of the diocese, was translated to the Archbishopric of Armagh, opening the way for Dr Delaney's appointment as Bishop-Coadjutor in 1783.

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    When Dr. O'Reilly, the Parish Priest of Kilcock and Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese, was translated to the Archbishopric of Armagh, Dr. Delaney was appointed to fill his place. The popular curate of Tullow was consecrated Bishop-Coadjutor in the year A.D. 1783. The zeal that characterised his ministrations as Curate was intensified and redoubled during the years of his Episcopacy. He had now a larger sphere in which to exercise his apostolic energy, and a free hand for accomplishing the good works upon which he had set his heart. The Episcopal portion of his life is admirably set before us in a manuscript written by the versatile and powerful pen of Dr. Doyle, O.S.A., the light and glory of Kildare and Leighlin: "During his administration the circumstances of the Catholics improved through the relaxation of the Penal Laws, and with unwearied zeal this Bishop, aided by diem, laboured successfully to rebuild

    chapels, to increase the number of clergy, and to promote religious instruction be means of schools, confraternities, and the circulation of good works. He held in his hand, as it were, the hearts of his flock, and moulded them as he pleased, or rather as God required him to do. His labours were unceasing and an ardent love of God, with tenderness and compassion for sinners, seemed to be the characteristic virtues of his life. Saint Francis de Sales was the great model of his private and episcopal labours, and like him he became the instrument whereby the Almighty wrought numerous conversions, as well from heresy as from vice. His habits were frugal, his demeanour condescending; humbly he made himself all to all that he might gain all to Christ. He died at Tullow, after enduring a long and painful illness, and is interred in the chapel of that town, which he himself had raised from the foundation."

    Internet Archive saint-brigid-patroness-of-ireland-by-father-joseph-a-knowles, Chapter 1

    As the companion tells it

    Up ahead is Kilcock, the town where Dr O'Reilly served as Parish Priest and Coadjutor Bishop of the diocese. In 1783 he was translated to the Archbishopric of Armagh, one of the highest offices in the Irish Church, and his departure opened the way for Dr Delaney to be appointed in his place. Delaney, then the popular curate of Tullow, was consecrated Bishop-Coadjutor that same year. His zeal as curate, the record says, was intensified and redoubled during his episcopacy. He laboured to rebuild chapels, increase the number of clergy, and promote religious instruction through schools and confraternities, aided by the relaxation of the Penal Laws. Dr Doyle of Kildare and Leighlin wrote that he held the hearts of his flock in his hand and moulded them as God required. He modelled himself on Saint Francis de Sales, won conversions from heresy and vice, lived frugally, and made himself, as the source says, all to all that he might gain all to Christ. He died at Tullow after a long and painful illness and is buried in the chapel there, which he himself had raised from the foundation.