Brigid: Saint/Goddess of All The Things

Hey Y’all!

Today, let’s embark on a whimsical journey into the world of Imbolc and Saint Brigid – two seemingly unrelated celebrations that have somehow found themselves sharing February 1st.

Grab your crosses, wands, rushes, and Rowan branches, because we’ve got a lot of ground to cover!

Imbolc: Can you pronounce that for me again?

First things first, what in the cauldron is Imbolc? Well, imagine the ancient Celts throwing a mid-winter shindig to celebrate the first signs of spring. Imbolc, which falls around February 1st, marks the halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox. It’s like Mother Nature’s way of saying, “Hang in there, folks, flowers are on the horizon!”

To add a dash of enchantment, Imbolc is also associated with the Celtic goddess Brigid – enter Saint Brigid, stage left.

Saint Brigid: The Patron Saint of Multitasking

Now, let’s talk about a woman who knows how to get things done. St. Brigid is like the multitasking queen of saints, seamlessly blending pagan Celtic and Christian traditions. Legend has it that Saint Brigid was born in 451 AD in Ireland, and her resume includes being the patron saint of poets, blacksmiths, and, of course, dairy workers. Oh, and she was also known as the Goddess Brigid before Christianity appropriated her – at least that’s my take. The official jury is still out on that one.

The Unlikely Duo: Imbolc Meets Saint Brigid

So, how did Imbolc and Saint Brigid end up sharing a holiday? Was it a cosmic mix-up, a clerical error in the divine schedule, or because Saint Bridget simply had a thing for snowdrops and lambs – the symbols of Imbolc. 🤷🏻‍♀️

Regardless of the how, Imbolc and Saint Brigid are now tied at the hip with red twine. Why red? It represents fire and light.

Celebrating Imbolc and Saint Brigid: A How-to Guide

Now, you might be wondering, “How in the world does one celebrate this quirky combo?” Keep reading, I’ve got you covered.

1. Making St. Brigid’s Crosses and Brideógs: On Saint Brigid’s Day, folks engage in the ancient art of Brigid’s Cross and Brideóg crafting. Picture this: households and schools transforming into makeshift craft studios, armed with rushes or straw and a mission to weave some protective magic. And let’s not forget the grand display! Brideóg’s are displayed in the room that is the heart of the home. Brigid’s Crosses proudly hang on walls, doors, and windows, shouting to the world, “This house is fortified with ancient charm and a dash of DIY sass!” I used this tutorial to make a Brideóg – Danu’s Irish Herb Garden and this tutorial to make a Cross for over the front door – Making a St. Brigid’s Cross. They are both excellent tutorials. Don’t judge them from my efforts shown below.
2. Visit to Holy Wells: On Saint Brigid’s feast day, forget the spa – it’s all about the divine field trip to her holy wells. Rituals include leaving offerings and making divine requests. Cheers to a cosmic adventure at Saint Brigid’s Well!
3. Candlelight Processions: Saint Brigid is often associated with the element of fire, symbolizing the return of light and warmth after the winter solstice. Lighting candles in the home is another traditional way to honor her. Forget just setting the mood; we’re talking about giving winter the eviction notice it deserves.
4. Planting Seeds: It’s Saint Brigid’s gardening gala at Imbolc – the original spring break for seeds! People are out there planting bulbs and sowing seeds. It’s not just gardening; it’s Brigid’s way of telling winter, “Move over, I’m bringing green back.”

Saint Brigid’s Day in Ireland is a religious-cultural-folk blend. Think cultural potluck with a side of divine shenanigans.