st Bridgid

BRIDGID 3x3x12 Bridgid, also spelled Brigit, Bridget, Bridgit, Brd or Bride is a bridge between the Pagan & the Christian world. Raised by Druids & seen as a Goddess, she was also recognized as a Saint. in this way she managed to keep the veneration of womyn alive despite patriarchy. She is the muse of Smithing, artisans & poets. Her feast day is the day of her death, February 1st & is recognized as Imbolc or Candlemas. It marks the return of light. The legend of Bridgid's mantle explains her procurement of land for the convent she built at Croghan Hill. The king denied her the land she had requested which had a huge oak tree at the top of the hill. Years later, after hearing about all of the miracles she had performed, he asked her to heal his cauliflower ear. He had hidden this deformity because it was considered a sign that he was not chosen to rule. After healing his ear he agreed to giver her the land, but he told her that she could have only as much land as her mantle (cloak) would cover. The day they went to claim the land four assistants took the edges of her mantle & began walking backward in the four directions. When they were finished her garment covered the entire hillside. The symbols etched into this piece tell the story of her many sides. The anvil depicts her connection with the arts & the oak leaf in her hands reflects her Druid roots. Her staff is hidden upside down in her mantle. Bridgid's cross is featured in the side above the well of Kildare. Her angel wings depict her status as a saint. The candle on the back represents the flame keepers of Kildare. The fire at Kildare was put out during the fourteenth Century. in the 1970's a group of feisty feminist nuns re-lit the fire. Keepers of the flame are in covenants of 19 & hold prayer vigils. in this way the flame is always kept burning. Tapers lit from the fire of Kildare are passed to the new members in order to light their candles & keep the original flame burning in their hearts. When you sit in contemplation with this piece it brings inspiration for creativity. The fiery passion of Bridgid ignites our desire to be of service to others with compassion. Expect miracles that come from kindness to flourish in your life while working with her. st Bridgid