We are learning about Brigid, the goddess and the saint. This is the first year that we have a public holiday for Brigid’s Day.
“ Brigid is the bridge, crossing the threshold from Goddess to Saint, Celtic to Christian, North and South, winter and spring, water and fire, masculine and feminine, ancient and modern.” – Treacy O’Connor.
Willow staff/ maide sailí
Each child was given a willow staff. During the past two session we had a story about The Cailleach and Brigid. They travelled on foot and used staffs to help them on their journeys. The children will be using their staffs during their sessions to explore Killiney Hill.
Ogham writing
Our ancestors had a different form of writing that showed their deep connection with the land and with the trees. Each letter is linked with a tree. e.g D = Dair = Oak or B = Beith = Birch
Brat Bhríde
The Brat Bhríde was a piece of fabric laid outside before sunset on the eve of Brigid’s Feast Day, 1st February, and brought back in before sunrise. Blessed by Brigid, ancient Spring Goddess and Saint, the dew which fell that night imbued the cloth with powers of healing and protection which lasted throughout the year.
We created Brat Bhrídes to protect our natural world which needs so much care.
The children were asked what part of nature they would like protected
- Earth
- Water
- Air
